Automation Alley Kicks Off Series On Bridging Talent Gap

TROY -- Attracting and retaining a talented workforce is a primary concern for many businesses in Southeast Michigan. Coming out of the recession, employers are voicing concerns about a lack of qualified job applicants. Likewise, job seekers have called for companies to help solve the problem. Automation Alley, Michigan's largest technology business association, will host a six-session series on identifying ways to bridge the talent gap starting with "Hire and Keep That Elusive Perfect 'Ideal' Employee," from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 27 at Automation Alley Headquarters in Troy.

To kick off the series, John M. Jones, director and business leader of talent and rewards at Towers Watson, will present tips on hiring and retaining employees. The event also includes lunch, networking and a Q-and-A period.

"Talent has always been an issue. But coming out of the recession, it has been a tremendous issue. And everyone is saying the same thing: 'I can't find qualified talent,'" said Alysia Green, Automation Alley director of talent development. "Companies are finding out from job seekers that the issue partly exists with the employer. They have had to lay off people, and now they have a three-page job description because they just consolidated five positions into one. Well, guess what? That position is still open because that person doesn't exist. Employers need to realize that they are looking for Batman when Robin can do the job."

Future session topics will include writing a realistic job description, resources for recruiting, interviewing, on-boarding and bridging the generation gap in the workplace.

The first event in the series, presented by Automation Alley's Education and Workforce Committee, is $20 for members with pre-registration and $30 at the door. For non-members, the cost is $40 with pre-registration and $50 at the door.

Pre-registration ends Feb. 25 at close of business. Visit automationalley.com to register and watch Automation Alley's Event Calendar as more dates in the series will be announced.

For more information, contact the Automation Alley Resource Center at 800-427-5100 or info@automationalley.com. Automation Alley Headquarters is located at 2675 Bellingham in Troy.