Read more about the article Trust and Patience Are Key to Anti-Bias Initiatives in the Workplace at #MACoCon
Business Affairs / Employee Benefits and Relations / Human Resources / Winter Conference
Trust and Patience Are Key to Anti-Bias Initiatives in the Workplace at #MACoCon

Human resource and diversity, equity, and inclusion experts from around the state discussed the importance of patience and building trust when establishing anti-bias initiatives in the workplace. While sometimes challenging at the onset, a thoughtful and consistent approach can have a major impact on productivity and employee satisfaction.  As employers and service providers, counties can benefit from fostering strong connections with their employees and community members. A respectful and supportive work environment is not just…

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December 17, 2024
Read more about the article The Business Case for a Welcoming Workplace at #MACoCon
Employee Benefits and Relations / Human Resources / Winter Conference
The Business Case for a Welcoming Workplace at #MACoCon

Surveys show that younger populations want more consideration from employers regarding not only "what they do" but often "who they are," seeking identity-based recognition. A number of recent surveys have shown that younger populations have different expectations for workplace culture than prior trends have revealed. These are populations that in more instances seek equity and protections from employers when it comes to individual, identity-based needs and services. As public service employers find it increasingly difficult…

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December 3, 2024
Read more about the article Comment Time Extended for New Federal Heat Exposure Rules
County News / Employee Benefits and Relations / Human Resources / Labor
Comment Time Extended for New Federal Heat Exposure Rules

The federal government has extended the comment period for its proposed heat safety rule, giving stakeholders more time to weigh in on protecting workers from extreme heat. The US Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has extended the public comment period for its proposed rule aimed at preventing heat-related injuries and illnesses in indoor and outdoor workplaces. Originally set to close on December 30, 2024, the comment period will now remain open…

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December 3, 2024
Read more about the article Engaging Employees, Retaining Talent: Strategies for Success
County News / Employee Benefits and Relations / Winter Conference
Engaging Employees, Retaining Talent: Strategies for Success

At this year’s MACo Winter Conference, an expert panel will share insights and actionable strategies for creating an engaged, committed workforce and transforming recruitment and retention challenges into opportunities for growth. An engaged workforce isn’t just productive—it’s the backbone of effective public service. Employee engagement directly impacts recruitment, retention, and organizational success, especially as counties navigate workforce shortages and increased service demands. Recruitment challenges, employee burnout, and high turnover rates hinder progress in county governments.…

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December 3, 2024
Read more about the article MD Launches Nation’s First Public Procurement Apprenticeship Program
County News / Employee Benefits and Relations / Higher Education / Human Resources / Winter Conference
MD Launches Nation’s First Public Procurement Apprenticeship Program

Maryland is transforming public service with the launch of the nation’s first-ever public procurement apprenticeship program, paving the way for a skilled and dynamic workforce. Maryland launched the Future of Procurement Apprenticeship—the nation’s first apprenticeship program dedicated to public procurement. Announced by the Office of Governor Wes Moore, the pilot program is spearheaded by the Maryland Department of General Services and aims to train the next generation of skilled procurement professionals while promoting workforce development…

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November 26, 2024
Read more about the article Surveys: Younger Adults Have Evolving Workplace Expectations
Employee Benefits and Relations / Winter Conference
Surveys: Younger Adults Have Evolving Workplace Expectations

Hiring and retaining employees from younger generations increasingly appears to depend on adopting new workplace standards and practices regarding DEI, wellness, social concerns, and the environment. Recent surveys from Gallup and Deloitte show the shifting demographics and priorities of younger generations in the workplace. For local governments, this could signal a need to adopt workplace policies and practices that can respond to these interests and expectations. What those changes are exactly is dependent on a…

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November 26, 2024
Read more about the article National Apprenticeship Week: Bridging Workforce Gaps
County News / Education / Human Resources / Labor
National Apprenticeship Week: Bridging Workforce Gaps

Apprenticeships are shaping the future of work—fueling innovation, expanding career opportunities, and addressing critical workforce needs.  The US Department of Labor announced the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week (November 17-23), celebrating a decade of expanding and innovating career pathways through Registered Apprenticeship. This year's theme, “Celebrating 10 Years of Engagement, Expansion, and Innovation,” is highlighted by over 1,300 events across all US states and territories and over 800 proclamations. The week emphasizes the role of…

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November 19, 2024
Read more about the article Empowering Experience and Elevating New Talent at #MACoCon
County News / Employee Benefits and Relations / Human Resources / Labor / Winter Conference
Empowering Experience and Elevating New Talent at #MACoCon

Bridging the expertise of seasoned employees with the perspectives of emerging talent is key to building a resilient and inclusive workforce. Workforce dynamics are evolving rapidly as employers navigate the challenges of an aging workforce alongside the need to attract and develop new talent. Older employees bring a wealth of institutional knowledge, but retaining them requires thoughtful approaches to workplace flexibility and inclusion. At the same time, building robust pipelines for young adults and non-traditional…

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November 18, 2024
Read more about the article Maryland’s Job Growth Challenge: Navigating Economic Headwinds
Business Affairs / County News / Labor / News You Can Use / Winter Conference
Maryland’s Job Growth Challenge: Navigating Economic Headwinds

Maryland’s job growth rate paints a troubling picture. According to the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, the Old Line State ranks 49th in the nation with only 0.6 percent growth over the past year. The state lags behind neighbors like Virginia and Pennsylvania, who are outpacing Maryland in both jobs added and overall percentage change. According to the latest data from the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, Maryland faces several challenges related to business competitiveness: 49th in…

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November 12, 2024
Read more about the article Howard Community College Secures $50k Grant for Workforce Development
County News / Employee Benefits and Relations / Higher Education / Human Resources / Winter Conference
Howard Community College Secures $50k Grant for Workforce Development

A new grant will empower Howard Community College to equip students with cutting-edge skills for high-demand careers, fueling economic mobility. Howard Community College is making an exciting announcement that will pave the way for Maryland's economic mobility and workforce readiness. The Truist Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to support the forthcoming Cathy & Danny Bell Workforce Development and Trades Center, which is estimated to open in the fall of 2026 and will enhance career…

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November 12, 2024
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