Here in rural America, we hear it all the time, “no one wants to work anymore.”

While I’m not in a position to determine this statement’s accuracy, it’s obvious small business owners are sometimes challenged to find and keep skilled workers. Since 2020, all workforce statistics point to the reality that good help is indeed hard to find.

The good news is community leaders and multiple organizations serving our region are working hard to shift the narrative and have made great strides in workforce development.

To help businesses solve employee challenges, owners, managers and HR professionals are invited to attend a Workforce Development Conference on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. The event will take place from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the Farmington Black Knight Fieldhouse and is presented by the Farmington Regional Chamber.

The conference will provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the latest workforce development trends, best practices, and strategies for creating and attracting a more skilled and productive workforce. Featured speakers include: Dan Mehan, CEO of Missouri Chamber of Commerce & Industry; William Britton, a successful manager with 19 years of experience in retail and a low employee turnover rate; and Jaclyn Rowe, Consulting Director for the Washington County Industrial Development Authority.

Topics for the sessions include: “Becoming a Better Leader”, “HR for Small Businesses”, “Bridging the Generational Gap”, “Interviewing Tips for a Better Hire”, and “Keys to Retaining Great Employees”. “Recruiting Tips: Attracting the Right People” will be presented by Mineral Area College Employee Support Services.

The Workforce Development Conference is designed to help businesses stay ahead of the curve when it comes to their most valuable asset: people. Attendees will have the opportunity to attend informative sessions and benefit by networking with other business owners and workforce development professionals, sharing ideas, and learning from each other’s experiences.

Attending the Workforce Development Conference is an investment in your business’s future. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to learn, network and grow your business. Register today!

 Regional Workforce Development Conference – Apr 26, 2023 (farmingtonregionalchamber.com)