2023 Workforce Summit Addresses Employer Concerns, Highlights Programs in Practice

Knox County, Knoxville Chamber, and Regions Bank Gather Employers and Providers

Knox County, Knoxville Chamber, and presenting sponsor Regions Bank hosted over 100 attendees on April 4 at Jackson Terminal to discuss workforce issues and solutions in the region. This is the first year the program has been held.

Attendees started the day hearing from Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Deniece Thomas, who expressed the importance of feedback from the business community. “We need you. Your voice is the one that will carry,” she said. “Our ears are wide open.”

Commissioner Thomas also highlighted the importance of employers working with the business services team at the American Job Center in Knoxville who can help with programs that can benefit a company’s bottom line. 

The first panel included representatives from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s Labor Standards Unit, the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and law firm Lewis Thomason. The panel addressed employer concerns including hiring minors, assisting individuals with disabilities, job requirements, overtime, and more.

“Today’s event has exposed a chasm between employers and service providers,” said Rob Stivers, Knoxville Market Executive for Regions Bank. “Those hiring have access to an abundance of local resources to develop their workforce. One of our biggest hurdles is making sure that employers are aware of those resources. Regions understands and values the importance of workforce development as a foundational element to meaningful careers and a vibrant and inclusive community. We are excited to continue helping our community develop strong communication to further the efforts for workforce.”

The second panel included leaders at Dollywood, First Utility District, DeRoyal, and Knoxville Utilities Board. The panel highlighted programs in practice, highlighting hiring and retention success, employer-sponsored training, building a pipeline, and more.

“Over the years we have seen our homegrown talent leave Knox County looking for employment opportunities. We want to retain our talent and make sure that we have opportunities to make Knox County the best place to live, work and raise a family,” said Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs. “We have to change the mindset when it comes to education and employment to keep up with the changes in our workforce needs. We must create workforce pipelines and open doors for stackable credentials to better prepare our students and workers for the needs of our businesses not only today but for our future needs.”

For more information on Workforce Service Providers in the area, visit https://www.knoxvillechamber.com/workforce-service-providers/.