Unemployment is still high across the state. And while there are many without jobs, some employers struggle to find people to fill positions.
When the pandemic hit, the unemployment rate across the state reached a record high at 12.10%. Those numbers have dropped considerably over time, landing at 6.40% currently.
In Longmont, the unemployment rate is just under the state average at 6.30% which is down from 6.70% last month.
In an article earlier this month, local restaurants reported difficulties finding people to fill positions, especially qualified individuals. Alishia Moore, director of operations at The Roost, said, some employees left the industry in search of better jobs.
The Colorado Workforce Development Council, or CWDC, is partnering with the TalentFOUND network to introduce a survey to business owners to "understand the skills gaps Colorado businesses face and identify how education and training programs can help close those gaps," according to a news release.
CWDC works to "enhance and sustain a skills-based talent development network" to meet the needs of Colorado's workforce and employers, according to its website.
TalentFOUND also strives to connect individuals and employers with the resources they need for success.
Together they are asking business owners to participate in the Bridging the Talent Gap employer survey. The survey is expected to take hiring personnel around 15 minutes to complete, according to the news release. The survey is open through June 15.
The results of the survey are expected to be released in the fall, according to the CWDC website. Employers will have access to the data to identify "talent gap information in the local employer ecosystem," according to the website.
Reports that compare businesses across the state and nation will also be available.
The results of the survey will also be used by the TalentFOUND network to develop talent development solutions that employers can use to "implement practices and programs to strengthen their business," according to the website.
