DEVELOPING A QUALIFIED, DIVERSE WORKFORCE

To attract and retain a qualified and diverse workforce, Iowa must not be inhibited from promoting all that it has to offer. National publications regularly tout the family-oriented quality of life values in Iowa based on high rankings the state receives for its overall cost of living, strong education system, productive workforce, affordable housing, low crime rate, accessible health care system, work/life balance, access to cultural and recreational activities, and many other criteria. The presence of a diverse and vital economy enhances a quality lifestyle and incites meaningful career opportunities. To this end, private-and public-sector recruitment efforts should aggressively highlight such “Best Places…” rankings and make it easier for talented individuals with diverse professional and cultural backgrounds to consider living and working here:

• Regional and statewide collaborations of organizations must be encouraged to promote cultural awareness and career opportunities, e.g., Iowa Mosaic.
•  Business culture adjustments can be made to better accommodate the changing demographics of the workforce, which increasingly values a more balanced work schedule and lifestyle.