Workforce Innovation Center Newsletter | September 2024

Monthly Newsletter

September 2024

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Workforce Innovation Center

This week, the Cincinnati Chamber has the pleasure of hosting nearly 40 individuals in our region for the Cincinnati Convening of the Regional Inclusive Growth Network, facilitated by Brookings Metro and funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The initiative, which began in October of 2023, aims to promote racially equitable local economies in eight chosen small and mid-sized cities. The network is assisting our cities in a 24-month collaborative process, developing goals, capabilities, practices, and strategic investments centered on economic and racial inclusion. Facing challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, economic crisis, and social and racial reckoning, these cities require policies for inclusive economic growth. 


We are so pleased to be able to showcase our great region this week! At the Cincinnati Convening, we are:  

Our team also had the chance to be tourists in our own town, taking our guests on a tour of the Cincinnati Underground at American Legacy Tours with an awesome tour guide, Miranda on Tuesday. And on Wednesday, our passionate storyteller and docent, Novella, lead us on a moving tour of the National Underground Railroad and Freedom Center.


We know what an amazing place the Cincinnati region is to live, work and play. We are grateful to host our colleagues from RIGN and highlight some of our assets and memorable experiences while we continue our work to ensure that the Cincinnati region grows and is a place where everyone belongs.  


Learn more about the initiative from Brookings’ recently published article: How business leaders and civic partners in small and midsized U.S. cities can advance racial equity and inclusive economic growth 

Audrey Treasure

Audrey Treasure

Executive Director, Workforce Innovation Center

atreasure@cincinnatichamber.com

PARTNER FEATURE

IBEW/NECA Electrical Training Center

The IBEW/NECA Electrical Training Center is building the workforce for the future of our industry through our inside electrician and telecommunications apprenticeships. The program is a true “earn while you learn” opportunity that leverages relationships with over 50 signatory NECA electrical contractors to provide classroom trade related training, job placement, associate’s degree programs through Northwest State Community College, and continuing education through journeyman/auxiliary classes. 


To help students get a jump on their career path we also offer the Interim Credentials program. It is a comprehensive five-course curriculum that offers high school seniors the opportunity to earn an industry credential certification for their graduation requirement and allows them to enter the electrical apprenticeship with advanced standing. This program is the result of over 80 years of curriculum development and work experience within the IBEW/NECA Electrical Industry. Program information can be found on our website www.electricaltc.org.  


The IBEW/NECA Electrical Training Center is sponsored by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 212 and the Cincinnati Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA).  

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SEEKING INSIGNTS

Mental Health in the Workplace 

Leadership Cincinnati Class 47 and the Cincinnati Chamber’s Center for Research and Data is partnering with Interact for Health to gather information about Mental Health in the Workplace. Please fill out this brief survey to share more about your experiences!

Mental Health in the Workplace Survey

Center for Research and Data

The Center for Research and Data released the 2024 State of the Region report. Among other things, this year's edition features an expanded focus on immigration and generational data, presenting a compelling narrative on the critical role immigrants play in driving our region's population growth, economic strength, and cultural vibrancy.


As Cincinnati's native-born population continues to age, the report reveals that 62.7% of immigrants in our region are of prime working age, compared to only 38.1% of native-born residents. Additionally, foreign-born residents tend to have higher household incomes and greater workforce participation.


The data underscores the importance of making Cincinnati a welcoming place for new residents, both from within the U.S. and abroad, to secure our future growth and prosperity. To read more from the report, click below:

View Report

GEN Z Discussion Groups - We Need Your Voice!

Are you a member of Gen-Z (born between 1997-2012)? Are you an active member of the workforce in Cincinnati? Do you hold a specialized trade certificate/credential or are you working towards one? Are you passionate about improving workplaces in the region? 


If you said yes to any of the above, we want to hear from you! Give us your opinions and we will give you a $25 gift card!


We are looking for participants in three upcoming discussion groups to learn more about Gen Z’s perspective on careers and work. Your voice will help inform a white paper that will educate employers on the unique work contributions and expectations of Gen Z. 


Some topics we are seeking your opinion on may include:

· How do you view your work life and career over the next 10-20 years?

· When you were looking for employment, what factors were the most/least important in your decision-making process?

· What benefits, perks, workplace culture, etc. are you looking for from a company?

· How do you feel about the Cincinnati Region? What has made you stay here?


No opinions are wrong – we want to hear it all! The sessions will be scheduled in September & October.


Parking will be free, and dinner will be provided along with a $25 gift card. So, if you’re available and interested, please fill out this form or click the button below. Please feel free to forward this to your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to meeting with you!

Let Us Know You're Interested
UPCOMING EVENT FROM PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS

BLINK Cincinnati | October 17 – 20, 2024

From its first event in 2017, BLINK’s founding team sought to nurture a sense of community and connection through public art. They came together, a collection of creatives, entrepreneurs, local artists, art enthusiasts and arts supporters, wanting to show Cincinnati what a future city could be – through an unforgettable art experience. They also wanted to show the world what Cincinnati had to offer, to solidify it as a hub of creativity, forward-thinking conversations, and aspirational ideas. Light was the medium. It is fundamental to the human experience. It connects us all. It can illuminate a path toward inclusion and possibility. What they didn’t know was how much connection it would drive. How it would light up a city, the humans within it and become a beacon of light for our city and beyond.


Now in its fourth iteration, BLINK has become more than a gift to the city. It attracts artists from around the globe who believe in its mission. It attracts over 2 million people who walk the city’s blocks in wonder and amazement. It crosses a river and connects a region. It provides a $126 million economic impact to our region. But it also still connects us. 

We welcome everyone to experience the light, the art, and our community.


BLINK is FOR THE PEOPLE. BY THE ARTISTS. 

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NEWS OF INTEREST

Ohio child care prices up 25% since 2019, cost for baby tops $12k a year, new report finds | The Enquirer

Untapped Talent: Unlocking the Potential of Overlooked People | SHRM

What’s Working for Mothers | SHRM

Wellness in the workplace: How businesses can individualize women's health needs | Cincinnati Business Courier

Sundance Institute names Cincinnati finalist for hosting 2027 Sundance Film Festival | SHRM

Leadership Center lands first-of-its-kind grant from Greater Cincinnati Foundation | Cincinnati Business Courier

Cynthia Booth opens Emerge Manufacturing in Bond Hill | Cincinnati Business Courier

NPR Exclusive: U.S. overdose deaths plummet, saving thousands of lives | NPR

The Hidden Workforce Crisis: Addressing Generational Trauma For Organizational Success | Forbes

The changing landscape of economic opportunity by race and class in America | The Brookings Institution

PCIC Announcement - The Families and Workers Fund | NPR