Barriers to Talent

Where Is The Talent?

Every organization has a hiring process.  The goal of the process is to find qualified candidates that meet the needs of the organization.  In today’s employment market identifying and reaching the correct qualified candidates is becoming more challenging.  There are a number of contributing factors that impact the hiring process.

So, what approaches can be taken to overcome these challenges?  Is it effective to outsource a need?  Should we train internally and promote from within the organization?  How do we keep our current employees up to date on the ever changing technology landscape?  These questions are hard to answer and usually start with ‘It depends…’ Knowing your options provides you the ability to make informed hiring and training decisions to best meet your needs.

Andrew (Drew) Kjell, Web/Software Instructor at WCTC, and Paula Lukach, Director of IT Staffing at Extension, with some members of her team, will speak to these challenges from a behind the hiring process scene perspective.

Drew holds a BS in Software Engineering and Applied Math from Carroll University and is currently pursuing a MS in Organizational Leadership and Administration from Concordia University of Wisconsin.  He started his career as a web developer for a local job board which allowed him to witness firsthand the challenges of defining the right job description and finding the right person for the job.  He has held many roles in his career including Application Support, Project Manager, Database Administrator, Product Owner, Consultant, and Software Engineer.  He is currently a full time Instructor at Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) teaching in the Web/Software Developer program and is a lead instructor helping launch a new Database Specialist Associate degree program.  In education Drew has found a unique blend of problem solving, technical skill and education.

Paula holds a BS in Business with a focus on Management Information Systems.  She started her career as a Cobol Developer and moved into a Business Systems Analyst and eventually into a Project Manager.  She quickly realized how much she enjoyed working with people and projects and how important it is to have the right people as part of an IT team.  She dedicates herself to making great connections in the marketplace.

Together, Drew and the Extension team will address some challenges and obstacles in an engaging and fun way…truly giving the perspective from the ground level of hiring.  Come and enjoy a presentation on WHERE THE HECK IS THE TALENT!