A comprehensive resource for human resources professionals in technical industries, this book offers strategies and best practices for expanding and maintaining a diverse workforce, including company branding, community engagement/partnerships, training, and organizational culture considerations.

The pandemic and automation have forever changed how and where we work, what work we do, and who will do it. All this uncertainty has impacted talent pipelines in technical industries and highlighted the critical need for talent expansion and inclusion within this global sector. This book addresses the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that technical industries face in creating a diverse workforce—a unique context that has been overlooked in broader discussions of workplace diversity. It looks back on the history of diversity management and forward to best practices for expanding talent, including attracting, recruiting, and retaining all talent, including special populations. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the importance of inclusivity in manufacturing, construction, and engineering, along with tools and techniques for implementing these strategies in any organization. A Talent Expansion Framework is included to serve as a blueprint for improving the depth and breadth of talent through action-oriented approaches by leadership, the community, and employees themselves.

Human resources practitioners, business owners, and policymakers in technical industries and beyond will appreciate this book’s focus on practical strategies and its actionable approach to acquiring, developing, and expanding talent.