While Middle Tennessee enjoys the benefits of low unemployment rates and escalating job growth, it faces challenges tied to workforce equity. Here, we dissect the insights from a roundtable discussion centered around these issues.
Background on the Roundtable Discussion
Recently, Project Return, a nonprofit in Nashville emphasizing employment for ex-inmates, hosted a roundtable focused on equitable workforce development.
Who Attended?
Nashville Mayor John Cooper, U.S. Department of Labor deputy secretary Julie Su, and representatives from the Labor Women’s Bureau and Nashville Chamber of Commerce were among the 14 attendees.
Purpose and Focus
Julie Su, the Deputy Secretary, emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between local and federal entities for equitable workforce growth. The roundtable served as a platform for fostering these crucial connections.
The Current Landscape
Davidson County is witnessing a promising employment scenario. But what do the numbers say?
Unemployment Statistics
Only around 13,000 people in Davidson County are without jobs. The state witnessed its lowest unemployment rate of 3.2% in March, a significant shift from the 15.9% peak in April 2020.
Perspective on Job Growth
The allure of Middle Tennessee continues to grow, attracting businesses and fostering job growth. Mayor Cooper remarked about the county’s strategic shift from relying on tax incentives to draw corporations. Nashville’s appeal is self-evident now.
Equity Issues Highlighted
But not everything is rosy. Equity in workforce development remains a pressing concern.
Earnings Disparity
A study in collaboration with the Urban League of Middle Tennessee revealed a stark wage disparity. Workers of color are nearly two times more likely to earn less than $15 hourly compared to their white colleagues.
Challenges Faced by Women of Color
Sarah Glynn from the Labor Women’s Bureau shed light on the unique difficulties faced by Black and Hispanic women. Occupational segregation has hit them hard, and the pandemic exacerbated this. These jobs are valuable, but society tends to undervalue them, primarily when occupied by women.
Local Efforts to Drive Change
Local leaders understand the challenges and are proactively driving change.
Community Benefit Agreements
Delishia Porterfield, a Metro Council member, believes community benefit agreements can be game-changers for Nashville. Such agreements, focusing on local workforce investment, can counterbalance the feeling among residents of being mere spectators in the rapid urban transformation.
Prioritizing Post-Secondary Education
Stephanie Coleman from the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce accentuated the role of post-secondary education. Addressing racial disparities in such educational achievements can be the linchpin for equitable workforce development.
Role of Nonprofits in Bridging the Gaps
Nonprofits are indispensable in this mission of creating an equitable workforce.
Project Return’s Contribution
Project Return goes beyond its core mission of assisting former inmates. Providing comprehensive services, job placements, and affordable housing, the nonprofit sees the ex-inmates as embodiments of Tennessee’s bright workforce future. Bettie Kirkland, the CEO, envisions a future where the intrinsic motivation and humility of these individuals are recognized and harnessed.
Conclusion
In sum, while Middle Tennessee progresses in terms of job opportunities and growth, the quest for equity in the workforce is far from over. Collective action from local leaders, federal agencies, and nonprofits can bridge the equity gaps and ensure a brighter, inclusive future.