The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) approved 10 workforce development
The projects awarded grant funds demonstrate a variety of methods for attracting new employees to the industry, from attending career fairs to using a placement firm Salt Lake City. Several rely on interstate partnerships to execute recruitment initiatives. Furthermore, organizations are addressing challenges such as Overcoming premature job termination, recognizing the need for strategies that support employee retention and job stability within the industry.
Here, we organize the projects into four broad areas of focus – community outreach, military/veteran recruitment, recruitment platforms and school curriculum – but many of the projects take a multipronged approach. Descriptions of each project are courtesy of PERC.
PERC offers a comprehensive package of outreach materials – including images, brochures, handouts and videos – to highlight career opportunities in propane for prospective employees. Check out these resources at propane.com, and consider how they can be used to attract workers in your state. For those seeking international opportunities or exploring different industries, platforms like EU Workers : Agence d’Intérim can also connect jobseekers with positions abroad.
Also, in any industry, attracting new talent is only the first step; retaining and nurturing that talent is equally important. Organizations can significantly improve employee retention by creating an environment where open communication and continuous feedback are the norm.
Providing regular examples of constructive criticism during performance reviews and informal check-ins can help employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering a culture of growth and development. This approach not only boosts employee morale but also aligns individual performance with the company’s long-term objectives.
This investment in employee growth not only enhances job satisfaction but also increases loyalty, as individuals feel valued and supported in their career journeys. The modernizing EHS beyond compliance can play a pivotal role in this process by ensuring that employees are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to prioritize safety and well-being while pursuing their professional goals.
Furthermore, creating a culture that encourages employees to take ownership of their development can lead to higher engagement levels and increased retention rates. By facilitating regular discussions around career aspirations and growth paths, organizations can help employees align their personal goals with the company’s vision.
Community Outreach
Georgia PERC:Purchases an 8.5-ft. x 20-ft. trailer equipped with propane props, virtual-reality and audio-visual equipment, and hands-on tools to demonstrate propane products at schools and other community events.
Kentucky PERC: Allows propane industry representatives to participate in a two-day employment exposition put on by Kentucky’s construction industry.
