One of the top concerns we hear from employers is “workforce.” They worry about finding skilled employees and keeping them. Since it’s difficult to be successful without workers, workforce development is one of the key components in our strategic plan (which will be made public shortly). We wanted to give you a sneak peek into what we’re doing to ensure our businesses have the people it takes for them to thrive.
5 Things We’re Doing to Improve Workforce Opportunities
- Partnering with the College of Alameda to ensure the programs and curriculum it offers align with the needs of our employers. When we speak to employers with specific long-term needs, we serve as a bridge to connect them with the college so that the two can formulate a plan that works to meet the business’s needs as well as helps the college in keeping up with future workforce demands. The College is also critical to upskilling employees through continuing education and professional development offerings.
- Helping subsidize the cost for students to pursue degrees and certifications in programs that will be in demand in the next decade. Our Alameda Chamber Foundation offers an annual scholarship for graduating seniors pursuing a degree or program in STEM.
- Partnering with the City and other organizations in hosting job fairs to help connect employees looking for work and those who are hiring. These fairs and expos give us an excellent opportunity to understand the growing sectors in the community and what each is looking for.
- Hosting 12@12 industry luncheons. These invitation-only luncheons bring together top leaders in each sector to identify issues and challenges they’re facing as well as brainstorm solutions with local leaders. Our lunches are an excellent way for the chamber to focus on shaping programs that are going to have the greatest impact for our employers.
- Educating members and the community on critical business topics with our Power Lunch & Learn sessions. These monthly lunches cover topics that are key to business growth and/or professional development.
And we’re not finished yet!
We know finding employees is a top concern and we’re working with key stakeholders and leaders to ensure Alameda is the place everyone thinks of for skilled talent and hardworking employees. Through our workforce initiative and ongoing community collaboration, we are playing a crucial role in bridging the skills gap, supporting businesses, empowering job seekers, and shaping a bright future for the local workforce.
Won’t you join us?
