The Iowa Department of Corrections and Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) are encouraging local employers to register for an upcoming seminar about the benefits of hiring formerly incarcerated workers. The Employer and Reentry Breakfast Roundtable is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 12 at the North Central Correctional Facility in Rockwell City. Gov. Kim Reynolds, who urges businesses, recruiters and human resource managers to consider attending, says, “With one of the strongest job markets in the country, we must innovate and seek new ways to grow our workforce. Matching employers’ needs with formerly incarcerated individuals looking for new opportunities in life will do just that.” The roundtable will feature presentations and discussions about recruiting and training practices, apprenticeship programs and incentives offered to businesses that hire former prisoners. A limited workforce is often identified as the leading obstacle to economic growth in Iowa, and IWD Director, Beth Townsend, says, “This event is an opportunity to learn how employers can benefit from hiring and training returning citizens. By opening their recruitment strategy to include returning citizens, employers can find the skilled workers they need and be a part of someone’s success story.” Registration for the roundtable is open now and can be completed through the link included with this story on our website.
