Madison County takes on recruitment challenges with diversity

HUNTSVILLE – As hiring continues to be a struggle for businesses and organizations, maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce can be difficult. Often times, minorities, the elderly, and those without proper resources struggle to find fulfilling jobs, contributing to alarming unemployment rates.

However, Violet Edwards, Madison County District 6 commissioner, is focusing on changing this scenario.

Madison County’s workforce mission is to be as diverse and inclusive as its community is. This is evident in District 6’s development of recruiting those who are the most in need.

Edwards’ district has recently pushed Madison County into an agreement with the Top of Alabama Regional Council Of Governments to participate in the Senior Community Service Employment Program and provide workforce development opportunities for senior citizens.

They celebrated their first hired program participant at the Robert “Bob” Harrison Senior Wellness and Advocacy Center this year.

“Having a more inclusive workplace makes good business sense,” Edwards said. “Employing a diverse group of people brings a unique pool of ideas for programs and services.

“Also, our county government should look like our county population – a glorious mix of cultures with different experiences, skills, perspectives, and insights.”

The commission has shown dedication to hiring diverse employees by focusing its recruitment efforts on local veteran events, minority-focused events, and second-chance job fairs. The county hired nearly 200 employees in 2022. Of those, 50% were women and 33% were male and female minorities of various backgrounds.

Targeting the next-generation workforce can be a challenge, as well. The upcoming working generation are “digital natives”, meaning digital tools, devices, computers, and apps are part of their everyday lives. Though many are just now entering the workforce, they will account for 25% of all employees by 2025.

To help recruit this next-generation workforce, the county is using social media techniques as well as clearly communicating the long-term benefits of working for Madison County.

Edwards has expanded these efforts by facilitating a Memo of Understanding with Calhoun Community College for co-op students. This program allows the students to work directly in their field and opens the door to job opportunities. Multiple alums and program participants work across the county, including the District 6 office.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with the workforce as I look at District 6,” she said. “We are multi-talented and multi-generational and bring skills from various backgrounds.

“This is the type of team required when servicing a community as diverse as Madison County.”