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State launches program for older workers Thursday, Apr 13, 2006 By Aaron Sadler Arkansas News Bureau LITTLE ROCK - State officials announced a new program Wednesday designed to help older workers remain in the workforce. The "Mature Worker Initiative" is an effort to stem a shrinking workforce caused by retirement of many Baby Boomers. In a news conference at the state Capitol, Gov. Mike Huckabee said the program recognizes the value of older, experienced workers who otherwise may soon be retiring. Huckabee cited U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data that shows 43 percent of the existing workforce will reach retirement eligibility by 2012. The report said younger generations are 15 percent smaller than their Baby Boom predecessors. Many younger people also are not qualified as replacements, Huckabee said. "More frightening is the fact that the people that we're losing are the most seasoned, experienced, knowledgeable people of how their particular jobs are done," he said. Arkansas is one of four states partnering with AARP as pilot locations for the initiative. Arizona, Iowa and Mississippi are the other states participating in the program. The initiative asks employers to commit to hiring older workers. State agencies will serve as a conduit between older job seekers and employers. The state Department of Workforce Services is among several state agencies working with the AARP to implement the program. The Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Economic Development and the Department of Higher Education are all involved in the initiative. AARP officials said one goal of the program is to increase awareness of the older workforce and an appreciation for older workers. Several regional meetings are planned to inform job seekers and employers about opportunities for older workers. The initial meeting is Tuesday in Little Rock. Sessions in Fort Smith and Springdale are scheduled for June 13. Huckabee said the program "has great promise for Arkansas," where many retirees relocate. He said retirees in Arkansas may want to re-enter the workforce, in order to remain active physically and mentally. "One of the things people find is that they really worked so hard because they like it," Huckabee said. |
