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 March 2024
Spring is certainly in the air which also means that construction season is about to be in full swing. In this month's newsletter, we focus on the construction industry, featuring the people, events and programs that keep our community building strong. We also recognize the significant contributions and growing numbers of women choosing a career in the construction industry during Women in Construction Week March 3-9.
The WIB is also excited to announce the organizations who will be participating in the third Inclusive Workplaces Cohort - two of them are construction companies! It is last call for nominations for the 2024 Youth Workforce Champions Award. I invite you to read on for more details about these and other initiatives.
On behalf of the WIB, I want to extend my appreciation for your ongoing partnership and for being an important part of our local workforce landscape.
- Elisa Rasmussen, WIB Chair
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The WIB and Ramsey County are proud to once again offer local businesses the opportunity to participate in an executive leadership learning cohort experience. Expanding on the success of the first two cohorts and in alignment with Ramsey County’s Economic Competitiveness and Inclusion Plan, the 2024 cohort will include 11 organizations committed to cultivating more inclusive workplaces to harness the diversity of our community as a driver of economic growth.
The following organizations were selected to embark on the 9-month peer learning journey:
ADR Consulting Group will lead the cohort and create a learning environment that fosters discussion and sharing of ideas, while encouraging accountability through safe and brave spaces. Their facilitators come from unique and diverse backgrounds that allow them to truly center intersectionality in the way they approach diversity, equity and inclusion work and to serve as trusted advisors.
Learn more about the Inclusive Workplace Cohort initiative.
 Workforce Solutions Director Ling Becker was honored to share the stage with former U.S. Senator and Saint Paul Mayor Norm Coleman and Tonya Allen, President of the McKnight Foundation at the St. Paul Area Chamber Annual Dinner on Feb. 29. The panel discussion focused on how the community is building a bigger table toward a more inclusive economy.
Do you know an individual who has contributed exceptionally to the support and empowerment of Ramsey County’s youth and young adults through personal, academic or career development? Don't miss the opportunity to nominate them for the 2024 Youth Workforce Champions Award! Nominations will be accepted through March 14 at 4:30 p.m.
The Youth Workforce Champions Award is given each year to highlight two members of the Youth Works! community. The Legacy award will be given to an individual whose impact and leadership in the field of youth and young adult workforce development has been well-established. The Rising Star award will be given to an individual whose journey along the same path has just begun.
For more information and to submit a nomination.
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Commissioner Varilek was the featured speaker at a Midway Chamber meeting on Jan. 31. He shared good news about Minnesota’s economy as well as information about several funding opportunities recently released by the state.
Ramsey County Commissioner Rena Moran and Workforce Solutions Director/WIB Executive Director Ling Becker also attended the event. Ling kicked off the event by sharing information about the WIB and the employer resources the county provides.
Read the article.
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Inclusive Employer Toolkit offers free resources to employers
Workforce Solutions and the WIB are leading efforts to support employers to address discrimination and unconscious bias within their organizations. One of these efforts is to provide an Inclusive Employer Toolkit. The toolkit aims to help employers provide a more welcoming and inclusive workplace for all by offering practices to build diversity, equity, and inclusion in the areas of employee recruitment, hiring, onboarding and retention.
The Inclusive Employer Toolkit is now available online and can also be downloaded.
View the toolkit.
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 Build Your Own Future provides construction related employment and training information to job seekers, workforce professionals and construction employers in the metro area. The resources found there assist the construction industry by increasing the diversity of the workforce through its community, business and government networks.
Learn more about Build Your Own Future.
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Aalayha Traub
VDC Manager, Knutson Construction
WIB Member since 2023
Where do you see the most opportunities for people, especially youth people, interesting in starting a career in the construction industry?
With my role specifically, I think it is important that we start to consider and communicate the opportunities to apply new and upcoming technologies in the industry which is a big sell for the younger generations who likely have a great technological skillset already. Opening the door for them to bring skills they already have or have an interest in learning and finding how it can be applied to construction rather than how we can find something in construction that fits them is a great mindset shift for youth that makes them feel more in control of their career overall.
Learn more about Aalayha.
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 Workforce Wednesday
March 6, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Ever wondered how to support your New American Workforce or want to how what tools and resources are available for employers?
Join us for a presentation on the process of resettlement in Minnesota and learn about service providers, real-world examples connecting New Americans to employment opportunities and a chance to ask questions.
Presenters:
- Ahmed (Jaffer) Mohamud - Mankato Team Co-coordinator, MN Council of Churches, Refugee Services
- Becca Hovland - Director of Refugee Services, CAPI USA
- Hassan Salim - Employment Consortium Coordinator, Luther Social Service of MN
- Jessica O’Brien - Employment and Workforce Specialist, Department of Human Services Resettlement Programs Office
- Mohamed Haashi - Program Manager, Lutheran Social Service of MN - Central, MN
- Robin Christianson, CCAP, NCRI - Economic Empowerment Director, CAP LP
Register.
Employer of the Day
Tuesdays, 3–5 p.m., at the Roseville Library
Looking for a new job? Every Tuesday, employers will visit the Ramsey County Library in Roseville to talk about job opportunities in their organization. Bring your resumé and your best first impression to get hired.
Featured employers:
If your business is interested in being an Employer of the Day, please contact employerservices@ramseycounty.us.
Trainer of the Day
Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., at the Roseville Library
Meet community based, no-cost skill training programs that are recruiting participants for upcoming classes. Participating in a community based training program is a way to build an up- to-date skill set. When training is complete, get introduced to employers looking for certified trainees and start a new and rewarding career. Courses range from Automotive to IT to Healthcare and much more. See list of possible training courses here.
Featured trainers:
All are welcome.
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 Fair Opportunities Re-entry Simulation event
April 16
9-11 a.m.
Repowered, 860 Vandalia Street, Saint Paul, MN 55114
Participants can role-play the part of an individual recently released from jail or prison who is attempting to successfully reenter society. By navigating a scenario-based simulation,
employers and other stakeholders gain a fuller understanding of specific obstacles people face and how we can work together to provide a fair chance for employment.
Register now or contact Jay Grossman (jgrossman@getrepowered.org) or Donna Herbel (workreadiness@getrepowered.org) with questions.
Successful Employer Training
Every third Friday, 11 a.m.-noon
Ramsey County is partnering with World Youth Connect, a local youth-led organization, to help bridge generational and cultural gaps between Ramsey County employers and the region’s young workforce. As Minnesota’s most diverse county, Ramsey County is excited to support employers to be more inclusive youth and young adult friendly workplaces. This opportunity is complimentary for any Ramey County employer.
The Successful Employer Training (S.E.T.) is an opportunity for both new and existing youth supervisors and employers to learn essential youth and young adult onboarding, retention, and communication skills and strategies to ensure a positive work environment for all. Ensure your supervisors are well-prepared to adapt and succeed alongside the next generation of workers!
Register.
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People are our best assets: unveiling the economic dynamics of Ramsey County
Ramsey County is a dynamic hub nestled in the urban heart of Minnesota that boasts a rich tapestry of diversity and talent that forms the cornerstone of its economic vitality. With nearly 550,000 residents calling Ramsey County home, each individual adds a unique thread to the fabric of the community. As we delve into the intricate web of demographics and workforce dynamics, it becomes evident our people are not merely residents but the driving force propelling our county towards a brighter future.
"Ramsey County is more than just a geographical location; it's a vibrant community brimming with potential," remarks Erin Olson, Director of Strategic Research at RealTime Talent. "Our people continue to be our best asset, and their contributions are invaluable in shaping the economic landscape of our county."
Continue to the full article.
Top 10 Trends to Watch in Ramsey County’s Workforce Landscape from RealTime Talent is a compass, guiding Ramsey County through the complexities of a transforming workforce. The trends identified pave the way for a resilient, innovative and inclusive future. Each trend will be explored in-depth throughout 2024, charting the course for Ramsey County's workforce in the coming years.
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