As the competition for workers remains fierce, employers are looking outside traditional labor pools.
In the Cape � Jackson metro area, there are more open positions than available workers. We are urging employers to look at various non-traditional sources for help. A couple of these methods are gaining steam and having positive results in other areas of the state and country.
Missouri has many veterans looking to re-enter the workforce. These workers have a proven work ethic and a variety of valuable skills gained from their military service and training, prior employment and specialized education. The Missouri Division of Workforce Development has a variety of programs to help employers hire veterans through the Missouri Job Centers. They offer a program called Show-Me-Heroes On-the-Job-Training. The program will reimburse 50 percent of the wages of workers for up to 1,040 hours of OJT. Employers can participate if the position is permanent and full time � at least 32 hours a week and you participate in E-Verify. If interested, contact your nearest Missouri Job Center.
Another non-traditional labor pool is ex-offenders. Many employers are finding out that giving people a second chance can have great benefits. Missouri Department of Corrections offers numerous rehabilitation services and technical training. These include programs in auto mechanics, welding, building trades, certified nurse�s assistant, culinary arts, diesel mechanics, plumbing and the list goes on. Missouri Department of Probation and Parole will help find a fit for your business.
A tight labor market calls for innovative solutions. If your business is struggling to fill the employment gaps, get creative and consider one of the many non-traditional pools of workers.
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