Business Retention and Expansion Study for Collingwood's Knowledge Base Sector

Introduction

RECOMMENDATIONS

It is evident from these findings that Collingwood must develop skills attraction and retention strategies, using innovative and tailor-made strategies in order to attract and retain skilled workers.

There is no 'one-size-fits-all' solution to the attraction and retention of professionals and skilled workers in Collingwood. The employers within the knowledge base sector have differing issues and needs, and varying levels of resources. Therefore options need to be tailored to effectively respond to individual circumstances.

Of importance is the enthusiasm from Collingwood knowledge base employers, professional associations and local government staff about working together with other stakeholders to develop solutions on the ongoing issue of attracting and retaining skilled workers.

Part of the solution was addressed in early 2007 when Municipal Council appointed four local business, community and government leaders to the Economic Stability and Development Services Board. The Board directs the Office of Economic Development which includes assessing of the business climate in Collingwood.

1. Workforce

The Department recognizes that a comprehensive study to assess both needs and technical training gaps must be pursued. Based upon the study’s findings, the Office should prepare a plan to improve the availability of technical training programs at the local level.

2. Retaining Employees

a) Employees who quit because of deficiencies in the local professional, cultural and social amenities, it is open to the Economic Development Office to provide an inventory of cultural and social providers in the area and to convey this information to the Human Resource departments within knowledge based businesses.

b) Additionally, the Department should relay the need for a broader range of opportunities to current providers including at the municipal level.

3. Barriers to Growth

The Economic Stability and Development Services Board will utilize the BR+E findings to make recommendations to Town Council as to how to enhance municipal policies and procedures to create a more business-friendly environment.

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