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Building Foundations for the Future: Workforce Diversity, Recruitment, and Retention within the Tunneling and Underground Construction Industry
Presented by Everett Litton
Sponsored by WSP
Price: Free
The tunneling and underground construction industry is rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in technology, increased urbanization, and the growing need for resilient infrastructure. However, a critical challenge persists—ensuring a skilled, diverse, and sustainable workforce to meet future demands. This presentation explores the softer side of the industry, emphasizing strategies to enhance workforce diversity, improve recruitment pipelines, and strengthen employee retention.
Workforce diversity is not just a moral imperative but a business advantage, fostering innovation, creativity, and adaptability. Initiatives aimed at creating inclusive environments, such as mentoring programs, diversity-focused recruitment campaigns, and leadership development opportunities for young professionals and women, are key to attracting and retaining talent.
Recruitment efforts must also adapt to shifting demographics and societal expectations. Outreach programs targeting schools, universities, and trade organizations, coupled with storytelling that highlights diverse career paths within the industry, can spark interest in underground construction among younger generations. Furthermore, partnerships with community and trade-school organizations and advocacy for equitable access to training and resources can help remove barriers for potential workers especially from diverse backgrounds.
Retention strategies are equally vital. Flexible work arrangements, clear career progression opportunities, and investments in employee well-being contribute to a supportive workplace culture. Recognition of the demanding nature of the tunneling sector, with significant fieldwork necessary underscores the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
By addressing these human-centered challenges, the underground construction community can build a stronger foundation for its future. A focus on diversity, recruitment, and retention will help ensure a robust talent pipeline but also reflects a commitment to sustainable, equitable growth in the tunneling and underground construction field.Meeting Details:
Location: Live Webcast
Starts: 3/26/2025 2:00 pm MT
Ends: 3/26/2025 3:00 pm MT
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