Regional Workforce Development Series Kick Off

On February 13, 2018, the City of Duluth hosted the kick off to a series aimed at addressing the region’s persistent workforce issues.  The event, attended by over 150 employers and service providers, was hosted in partnership with APEX, the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board, University of Minnesota Duluth-Center for Economic Development, The Northspan Group and other several other workforce-related agencies.

The full-afternoon program was tailored to provide valuable insight to businesses of all sizes.  Speakers included Gerry Hoeffner, President of Personal Dynamics Consulting Group, and Susan Brower, Demographer of the State of Minnesota. Hoeffner touched on change management, corporate culture enhancement and employee development as key elements in recruitment and retention of talent in today’s marketplace.

This event was the first in a short series designed to help businesses remain competitive in the tight labor market. APEX Senior Business Developer, Ian Vincent, continues to play a significant role on the planning committee, helping to ensure APEX investor-members participated and had a voice at the table.

On April 16, 2018, the second session will focus on retention of employees, and host a breakfast session in Duluth and a duplicate lunch event in Chisholm.  The final session on May 16, 2018 will feature talent recruitment strategies and have a similar two event format.  For more information contact APEX Senior Business Developer, Ian Vincent at 218-740-3667.