Building Bridges Between Workforce Challenges and Opportunities

The workforce is undergoing seismic shifts, and communities everywhere are grappling with how to bridge the gap between job seekers and employment opportunities.  That was a key takeaway from a recent community discussion where experts highlighted critical challenges, creative solutions, and a collective vision for the future of work in Arkansas.

This community event was hosted by the 100 Families Initiative, an alliance of providers that use collaboration and existing resources to produce better outcomes for families in crisis, and featured a panel of experts on the subject. One recurring theme was the diversity of barriers individuals face when entering the workforce. Common challenges include a lack of reliable transportation, stable housing, and affordable childcare. These foundational needs often act as roadblocks to meaningful employment.

“Childcare is a huge issue, especially with time frames that don’t align with typical work schedules," Rebekah Cox, Program Manager of ACOM Division of Workforce Connections Employment Services notes. Extending hours to accommodate working parents would be highly beneficial.

Transportation also remains a critical challenge. While solutions like ridesharing and community transport programs exist, these are often localized and lack scalability. "Transportation solutions...are almost as unique as the regions those solutions are implemented in," Miles Crawford, Regional Development & Operations Manager for DPI Staffing.

Panelists agree that employers are beginning to see the untapped potential of individuals motivated to rebuild their lives. Many companies are adapting their policies to provide second-chance hiring opportunities for these job seekers with criminal records.

Crawford states, “Realistically, if their past criminal behavior isn't immediately reflective of the industry or the work they're performing, most employees are willing to overlook that."

Rex Denning, Strategic Operations Manager of Red Wing Shoes, explains his company's hiring policy regarding individuals with criminal records, emphasizing that such details are irrelevant when it comes to teamwork.

"I highly encourage anyone to apply and never let that be a barrier."

However, outdated hiring policies remain a barrier in some cases, particularly around cannabis use.

Stephen Houserman, Economic Development Director for the City of Clarksville, believes that a "client-counselor relationship," like the one provided by the 100 Families Initiative, is crucial for overcoming policies and stigmas, as family advocates "help shepherd individuals through the process."

A significant focus of the discussion was on workforce training programs and apprenticeships. While there’s no shortage of programs, the challenge lies in connecting individuals to them and addressing their underlying needs. "There’s no lack of workforce training programs or employers willing to train. The problem is more spiritual and socioeconomic—stabilizing individuals is the key," Crawford explained.

Apprenticeships were hailed as a powerful yet underutilized tool for building skills and loyalty among workers.

“The logic behind apprenticeships is evergreen. They’re applicable for a very, very long time,” Crawford noted. By pairing pre-apprenticeship programs with resources to stabilize individuals, communities can create a strong talent pipeline while ensuring workers are prepared for long-term success.

The conversation also highlighted the importance of cultural understanding in building a robust workforce. With diverse populations becoming the norm in many areas, community liaisons and bilingual staff are essential to bridging cultural and language gaps.

“Language is never a barrier,” Denning says. There is always a way to make communication efficient. Participants stressed that diversity isn’t just a challenge to overcome—it’s a strength that enriches workplaces and communities.

Whether it’s government agencies, nonprofits, educational institutions, or businesses, no single entity can tackle workforce challenges alone. Communities need strong networks of like-minded individuals who can help families in crisis. The tools for success already exist. It’s up to communities to leverage them effectively.

“We don’t need creative programs. We need people to show up to the programs that already exist,” Crawford emphasized. The solution isn’t necessarily complex—it’s about stabilizing individuals, breaking down barriers, and building systems that enable success.