The objective of this project was to develop a guide to implementing effective strategies for attracting and retaining a capable transportation workforce for public sector agencies.
Many transportation agencies are experiencing difficulty in attracting and retaining capable employees. Competition with other industries and fields, as well as current economic and demographic trends, is making it difficult to sustain an adequate and competent workforce. A growing number of employees are becoming eligible for retirement, and constraints on public sector financing limit the ability of transportation agencies to match salary and benefit levels of the private sector. This problem is being experienced at all levels and disciplines throughout the organization. Without a skilled workforce, all aspects of an agency’s transportation program are at risk.
There are studies that document methods for recruiting and retaining employees, but few have conducted an in-depth review of the results or provided guidance for implementation of the best practices. Research is needed to fill that gap and complement other ongoing efforts.
The final report has been published as NCHRP Report 685.
