2024 Workforce Needs Study

There has been much discussion around the challenges that employers face when it comes to recruiting the talent needed for their organizations. Recently, the Broken Arrow Economic Development Corporation (BAEDC) surveyed local employers to understand their workforce needs. The survey gathered data on worker demand and required skills, supplemented by insights from a national survey of over 1,400 employees. This information can help economic developers, officials, employers, and educators make informed decisions on workforce development and recruitment.

“The results from the 2024 Workforce Needs Study are important for helping us understand the employer demand for quality talent that possesses the skills needed for their industries. Representatives from 44 organizations across a range of industries participated in our survey,” said BAEDC Director of Workforce Development & Talent Attraction De’Andre Fahie. “We hope that this information will be able to provide guidance and discussion for organizations, training providers, and others connected to driving workforce development in our region.”

While plans for hiring remain strong in the community, 60% of employers have had difficulty filling at least one position over the past year, particularly in manufacturing, construction, and service-based industries.