Is there really a "Great Resignation" taking place?

Across the country, 2021 is being often referred to as the time of “The Great Resignation.” Wisconsin policymakers, industry trade associations, chambers, and large employers are not only caught flat-footed as to why this is happening, they are often looking for answers.  

Matt Valiquette, executive director for Bay Area Workforce Development Board, and board member for Wisconsin Workforce Development Association (WWDA) recently spoke with a Green Bay TV station regarding his thoughts on this mass exodus of workers which he described as more of a “Great Retirement.” 

Matt shared data showing that 10 percent fewer people aged 65 and older are working today than before the pandemic. While there were certainly several factors as to what is causing this mass employee turnover –what reality is many older people decided to retire.   

As for those who quit their jobs and decided to keep working, they likely left for better pay and more flexible working conditions.

Regardless of the why – it’s a concern for employers looking for workers. This is why Wisconsin’s local workforce development board system is more relevant than ever. 

What’s puzzling is the lack of interest in working with local boards to find a solution. The WWDA and Wisconsin’s boards are underused and under-recognized. 

 If you’re part of an employer, a chamber of commerce, a regional economic development organization, or an industry trade association - you need to learn more about the Talent Development Council and how to connect to your local workforce board. 

 Wisconsin’s 11 boards are the only statewide partnership of employers, educators, and community leaders tasked with fostering economic development and high-growth opportunities in regional economies. 

 This system exists to help businesses find qualified workers to meet their present and future workforce needs.

 The Talent Development Council is the fastest-growing coalition of employers and industry associations working to address Wisconsin’s workforce issues with a platform that provides: 

-       Access to programming

-       Connection to decision makers

-       The ability to influence funding priorities.

This is an unprecedented time of opportunity for folks looking to enter the workforce or improve their situation. Employers are adjusting by increasing wages and providing flexibility. 

In addition to contacting us directly, check out the details of our in-person Talent Development Conference (TDCON) scheduled for April 7&8, 2022 at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells. This gathering will bring together more than 250 workforce development executives, industry and trade associations, employers, policymakers, and workforce funders.

 Over the day and a half long, conference attendees will have a chance to hear from four keynote presenters, participate in 15 different breakout sessions and listen to panels of experts as they discuss, debate, and share the latest workforce industry data and trends and focus on practical solutions, best practices, and next steps. 

Contact us today to learn more about Wisconsin’s local workforce development boards and how they can help you.