Diversity Is Key in Energy Workforce Recruitment

摘要

Building a diverse, highly skilled energy workforce is a critical component of meeting tomorrow's energy needs. Utilities across the country are thinking innovatively when it comes to recruitment strategies to build a broader, well-rounded pool of employees who reflect the communities they serve. Diversity was a major theme during the 2014 Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD) Summit, held last November. More than 150 energy and education leaders discussed workforce challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Utility executives, human resource officers, and technical and community college representatives explored academic and recruitment strategies to meet long-term energy needs while providing employees with rewarding, sustainable careers in the industry. Working with schools, veterans, and faith-based organizations, utilities are recruiting in a completely different way than they did just a decade ago, reaching out especially to minorities, women, youth, low-income young adults, and veterans.