Utah’s 47G, a coalition of the state’s aerospace, defense and cybersecurity companies, has partnered with American Fork-based education technology company YouScience to launch a workforce development program aimed to connect emerging local talent with member organizations in the 47G network. The program will use YouScience’s Employer Spotlight platform to build early talent pipelines and boost economic growth in these industries.
“There are a number of national talent shortages and companies of all sizes reporting difficulty finding skilled workers,” an organization press release said. “To address this, 47G is leading the charge to create smarter talent pipelines and more efficient recruiting processes for its member organizations in the aerospace, defense and cybersecurity industries.”
Through our partnership with YouScience, we have created an effective, long-term solution that helps to address the workforce shortages in Utah’s aerospace, defense and cyber industries,” said Aaron Starks, president and CEO of 47G. “Employer Spotlight helps us achieve our mission to foster talent by connecting our members with job-seekers who have the relevant aptitudes and interests best suited for these highly sought-after careers.”
Through Employer Spotlight, member organizations can present their company information and career opportunities — including work-based learning programs, internships, apprenticeships and entry-level job openings — to students with the aptitudes the organization is looking to hire. In coordination with this effort, all local Utah schools have access to YouScience Aptitude & Career Discovery, where students can take a scientifically backed aptitude assessment to discover their natural talents, interests and get best-fit career opportunities.
The pilot program is available to more than 100 member organizations and 20 academic institutions in the 47G network.
“To fix the talent pipeline problem, businesses need to approach it differently; they need to connect with emerging talent sooner, foster these relationships and build ecosystems where talent comes to them,” said Edson Barton, YouScience co-founder and CEO. “The industries that do that will win and the ones who don’t will be left behind. At the same time, we’re not just empowering businesses — we’re making sure every student has the opportunity for a successful future. This bolsters both opportunities for our students and ensures local businesses have individuals with the skills we need in our communities for years to come.”