Barriers to Recruitment and Retention of Entry-Level Employees: Perceptions from Employers in Ramsey County

Abstract

This project was completed as part of the 2018-2019 Resilient Communities Project (rcp.umn.edu) partnership with Ramsey County. The mission of Ramsey County's Workforce Solutions (WFS) program is to strengthen the economic success of the community through personalized and effective workforce development. It serves as a resource for both job seekers and businesses by providing training opportunities and personalized assistance in searching and applying for jobs. Businesses also receive assistance with recruiting, screening, training, and retaining workers. WFS staff know there are many program participants who experience transportation barriers that prevent them from accessing or keeping jobs. Ramsey County project lead Max Holdhusen worked with a team of students in PA 5041: Qualitative Research Methods, taught by Dr. Greta Friedmann-Sanchez, to conduct a needs and barriers assessment of transportation resources and options through interviews with employers in suburban Ramsey County that face challenges in recruiting and maintaining job seekers due to a lack of public transportation options. The students' final report, presentation, and a poster summarizing the project are available.