HR Professionals: Make an Impact by Serving on a Workforce Development Board
HR professionals play a vital role in shaping the workforce of today and tomorrow. That’s why SHRM is urging HR leaders to step up and serve on state and local workforce development boards — ensuring that policies reflect the real-world needs of employers and employees.
Workforce development boards drive key decisions about job training, education funding, and employment programs that directly impact businesses and workers. However, these boards often lack the employer perspective that HR professionals bring: expertise in talent acquisition, skills development, workforce planning, and labor market trends. By serving on a workforce development board, HR leaders can help shape policies that foster economic growth, close skills gaps, and support a more dynamic and competitive workforce.
Why HR Professionals Are Essential
SHRM has called on governors across the country to appoint HR professionals to workforce development boards, emphasizing that HR leaders:
- Understand workforce trends: From AI in hiring to the growing demand for upskilling, HR professionals offer critical insights into today’s evolving labor market.
- Bridge the gap between employers and policymakers: With direct experience in workforce planning, HR professionals can advocate for policies that align with business needs and workforce realities.
- Champion practical solutions: Whether it’s expanding access to skills training or improving hiring pipelines, HR professionals can help design programs that benefit both job seekers and employers.
Get Involved Today
Are you currently serving on a workforce development board, or are you interested in learning more about how you can contribute? SHRM Government Affairs is here to help. Reach out to governmentaffairs@shrm.org to schedule a time to discuss opportunities, learn more about SHRM’s support, and explore ways to get involved in shaping workforce policy.
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