Strategic and Stakeholder Engagement

The Heldrich Center plays a critical role in connecting stakeholders that are part of the larger workforce development system. Heldrich Center researchers possess significant experience engaging a variety of stakeholders, including educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, workers, employers, students, retirees, policymakers, the media, and local, state, and federal government.

For example, the Heldrich Center partners with Middlesex County, New Jersey, the Robert Wood Johnson Medical system, Middlesex College, the Middlesex County Vocational-Technical Schools, and Middlesex County Magnet Schools. Together, they work toward the goal of creating a feedback and hiring loop. Robert Wood Johnson identifies the jobs and requirements needed to work in the industry and communicates that information to Middlesex College and Middlesex County Magnet Schools, which can then tailor their curricula to fulfill the educational requirements of Robert Wood Johnson’s future employees. The schools could also train their students with skills to work toward a career in the medical field. The process of the different stakeholders working together benefits workers and the medical system and contributes to the economic development of Middlesex County.

Many Heldrich Center studies offer in-person, virtual, and hybrid events to share project information and findings with an array of stakeholders. These events have focused on topics, including apprenticeships, diversity and inclusion, low-income households, the employment of individuals with disabilities, the healthcare system, aging workers, green jobs, investing in good jobs, working mothers, and worker assistance programs.

New Jersey has long believed that people with disabilities are a vital part of its workforce and are valuable participants in the state’s economic growth. Yet, people with disabilities continue to be underrepresented in New Jersey’s labor market. The Heldrich Center worked with the state on DiscoverAbility NJ, an initiative that aimed to enhance job and career opportunities for individuals with disabilities, reform delivery systems, and create partnerships to meet the state’s critical workforce needs. Heldrich Center staff conducted focus groups and one-on-one interviews with stakeholders across New Jersey, including employers, local and state government officials, persons with disabilities and their families, and employers, to learn about the needs and challenges of persons with disabilities and the needs and demands of employers.

Looking to engage key stakeholders and develop strategic plans?

Reach out to hcwd@ejb.rutgers.edu to see how the Heldrich Center can help.