GOSHEN – It's a growing dilemma more companies are facing – they're expanding and they need more workers. In some cases, though, there's a gap when it comes to finding the people with the right skills.
Wieland Design is a company in a growth and expansion mode. It’s looking for more new employees with sewing and upholstery skills to make products for the commercial furniture trade, as well as items for the automotive, medical, health care and airline industries.
The problem – they're not finding as many people as they need...even given the local unemployment numbers.
“It is a bit perplexing,” said Steve Yoder, VP of human resources. “It does seem like if you have 8 percent unemployment, you would have people that come in that are looking, that are eager to work. So I am not sure what all the dynamics are, as to why that gap continues.”
He says other companies looking for similar skill sets are running into the same thing.
“I've spoken to several other employers locally here who need that same skill set and they are experiencing the same challenges," said Yoder.
Now the company points out it is a complex job of sorts. It does involve a certain skill set...one that possibly many don't have, but the company is willing to train.
“We do need people now,” Yoder said.
The current hiring mode, though, is exciting news for those who already work there.
“It’s a good thing whenever you are hiring, it means that you are expanding,” said Sandy Phebus. “Obviously being here 33 years I’ve seen a lot of changes and we always welcome new associates, we have a good group of people here.”
“It makes me feel good, because it gives us more opportunities to learn different things,” said Melody Lane, a 10-year employee. “We have a lot of different jobs that you could do here.”
The company just got a state grant to train new workers.
