Workforce Policy

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Joint Center Talks Future of Work to Black Public Administrators

During the annual conference of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) in Cleveland, Spencer and Greensboro, NC Human Relations Executive Director Love Crossling, PhD discussed the role of public administrators (e.g., city managers, economic development directors, and more) in preparing workers in Black communities for jobs of the future. Spencer discussed some of the challenges, threats, and opportunities that will be faced by African Americans as a result of the of rapidly evolving technology being developed today. Additionally, Spencer highlighted future goals and policy solutions to narrow the skills gap, increase digital readiness, and resolve transportation challenges.

“Dr. Crossling was a great partner, and she talked about how individuals navigate the workplace, while I focused on macro issues related to the future of work,” said Spencer.  “Perhaps the most interesting part was the audience discussion, which exposed a significant generational divide within our community about appropriate workplace protocol and innovation.”