How the talent shortage affects kids
by Kim Quirk, director of education
The talent shortage is affecting businesses across a variety of industries. As our world has moved firmly into the digital age, more and more employers are looking to hire those who have digital and analytical skills. In the construction and trades that aren’t glorified in the media, students are missing out on the advantages to these ‘old’ professions. Many businesses are finding that there just aren't enough job applicants who possess the required skills for their businesses, resulting in a talent shortage.
It is not that recent graduates aren't getting quality educations, but rather that educational institutions are struggling to incorporate the needs of today's job market into their curricula and to connect professionals to their students. The end result is that numerous jobs are available in various areas of business, but applicants don't have all the skills required.
In response, Richardson ISD continues to meet with professionals when setting curricula direction and connect professionals to students in their trade academies. Listen to a podcast about their efforts here. Also, the chamber’s Education and Workforce Committee has put together the third annual iDream day for RISD 7th graders. Held at Richland College, students hear directly from professionals about the wide variety of careers that are available at a time in their education when they are making important course decisions. It’s an eye-opening and engaging opportunity to encourage students. We’d love to have you! Read more here.
The goal is to inspire students to be able to see themselves doing jobs they may not already know someone doing. To be able to picture themselves doing it as well. And to prod them into taking steps to make their dreams a reality.
Talent shortages are not uncommon in the business world and most often occur after rapid advances in technology and techniques. The current workforce must act quickly to adjust to the latest trends, and those just entering the industry are in the best position to make the most of the latest developments.
By connecting professionals to encourage students to dream about jobs they’ve never considered, the chamber is actively shrinking the skills gaps for Richardson in the future!
