In just a few short years, there is expected to be a “skilled trades gap” plaguing the industry. The average age among skilled tradespeople is 47 years old. As those workers retire, there will be a massive need to fill those jobs. As an employer, how can you prepare?
One answer: a more diverse workforce. Historically, the skilled trades have lacked diversity in terms of race and gender. Only about 6% of skilled workers are Black, and only about 4% are female. If employers are to close the skilled trades gap in the near future, they will need to improve diversity in hiring practices. Now is the time to start thinking about the best way to go about it.
Start by setting goals. What kind of diversity are you hoping to achieve? Make sure you quantify this is a way that allows you to track your progress. Also, consider your company’s branding. Does your website showcase a diverse workforce? Does it prominently feature your diversity policy? If you’ve started internal diversity initiatives, such as employee focus groups, mention those as well. These things may feel like mere window dressing, but they send an important message to diverse candidates about the company’s priorities.
Your next challenge will be to find the diverse candidates you seek. To do this, attracting young talent is key. With a cultural emphasis on four-year colleges, young people may not even be aware of the opportunities in the skilled trades. A presentation at a local high school can go a long way, particularly if you’re presenting to an entire class, not just those who sign up to hear you speak. Be open about your company’s desire for a more diverse workforce and the steps you’ve taken to make your company a welcoming place for all races, ages, and genders. Female students and students of color may start to consider careers they hadn’t before if they know they’ll be welcome.
Finally, consider ways to reduce bias in your hiring practices. Using AI to screen resumes can be very helpful here, although it’s important to note that AI programs can sometimes reflect the biases of their creators. Also, take another look at the keywords you’re using to screen resumes. Changing or broadening these terms can bring resumes to your attention that you may not have seen otherwise.
As your company slowly improves its diversity over time, you may find that diversity becomes self-fulfilling. Candidates naturally want to see themselves in whatever job they take. When they come in for an interview and see people who look like them in the warehouse or on the factory floor, they’ll know that this is a place where they can thrive.
About Wood Staffing
As you strive toward a more diverse workforce, we can help you achieve your goals. Contact us anytime to be matched with the best candidates for you.