Workforce and Leadership in Transportation
What is the best program, policy, or initiative you know to improve the workforce pipeline in transportation and related fields?
Some resources to consider:
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Simon Tan says:
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Bruce Abanathie says:
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Karalyn Clouser says:
Recently completed a project looking into recruitment and retention issues in highway maintenance, as a part of this project we interviewed state DOTs to look at strategies currently in place. There is no silver bullet, but we saw a number of unique solutions including mentorship programs, career pathways that allow an employee to “choose their destiny”, partnerships with local colleges, and efforts to improve workplace culture for women and minorities.
Eno is currently conducting research on workforce challenges specific to the transit bus operator workforce. One item that’s come up a number of times is the value of mentorship programs for retaining employees once on the job. Mentors can guide new hires, providing both technical and emotional support. Beyond this, thinking of training and development opportunities even *before* candidates are on the job (e.g. through education and apprenticeship programs) can better prepare new hires for success on the job and help to launch them on a ladder for growth at their employer.