The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is leading efforts to grow a workforce-ready population that meets the needs of today's employers and supports long-term economic growth in our region. Through strategic partnerships with education, business and community leaders, we work to develop, retain and attract talent while addressing barriers to workforce participation and strengthening the pipeline for future success.
Talent Development
The Chamber is also supportive of school career fairs and events designed to expose students to a variety of careers and businesses. One such event is Build My Future which is a showcase connecting area high school students to the construction industry to learn about the vast career opportunities it offers.Â
Talent Retention
Retaining existing talent in the Springfield region is a priority, and the Chamber leads this effort through college outreach and The Network, a young professionals’ (YPs) organization. Founded in 2007, The Network is focused on engaging YPs aged 21-39, offering opportunities to build their professional network, advance their careers, promote civic and community involvement, and fill leadership roles. Network members also work alongside Chamber staff to give presentations on college campuses and distribute copies of student insider guide CampuSGF, both outreach efforts aimed at helping Springfield’s 50,000 college students understand what our community has to offer after graduation.
Talent Attraction
The Springfield region’s economic vibrancy and competitiveness for new business investment requires strong population growth. To help the community attract a quality workforce, the Chamber launched the Talent Attraction Initiative in 2014. Research-based and funded by the Chamber’s economic development arm, the SBDC, this initiative was designed to aid area employers in their own recruitment efforts. The website at LiveInSpringfieldMO.com, and a printed companion Relocation Guide, provides a one-stop-shop for those considering relocation. Proactively marketed, the website’s blog posts and video library highlight why the Springfield area is a great place to live, work, play, and learn.