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IT Unplugged
Introducing "IT Unplugged" - your go-to podcast for all things IT, Cybersecurity, Business, and Technology! Join our experts as they break down complex topics into simple, easy-to-understand concepts.
In each episode, we'll explore the ever-evolving digital landscape and provide practical insights to help your business navigate this exciting world. From cybersecurity best practices to the latest tech trends, we've got you covered. No IT jargon, no complicated explanations - just straightforward, actionable advice to help you make informed decisions for your company. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a business owner looking to stay ahead of the curve, "IT Unplugged" is the podcast for you!
Tune in to "IT Unplugged" and discover how to leverage technology to drive your business forward. Subscribe now and never miss an episode!
IT Unplugged
What's REALLY Behind Northeast Wisconsin's Labor Shortage Today?
Wisconsin businesses face an unprecedented challenge: the labor force is shrinking while demand grows. In this episode of IT Unplugged, Brandon sits down with Laura Strickland, Partner Success Manager at Carex Consulting Group, to uncover the shocking reality behind Northeast Wisconsin's labor market. (Check out September's LMI Report: https://www.carexconsulting.com/resources/labor-market-insights-september-2025/
What You'll Learn:
Why Wisconsin job openings dropped from 268,000 to 137,000 (and what this really means)
The 6 million worker shortage coming by 2032 - traced back to 1970s birth rates
How to build vs buy vs rent talent in today's competitive IT market
Essential upskilling strategies that boost retention and cut hiring costs
Why IT unemployment sits at 2.9% while national average exceeds 4%
The truth about software development job postings vs AI/cybersecurity demand
Key Topics Covered:
Labor market index insights and what a 60.9 score means for businesses
Northeast Wisconsin's innovation boom and talent retention strategies
Building local talent through CSAs, technical colleges, and apprenticeships
Hiring adaptable employees over perfect skill matches
ROI of employee upskilling vs external hiring costs
Transparent hiring practices that improve candidate-company matching
Laura breaks down Carex's labor market insights report, revealing why traditional hiring approaches no longer work in today's talent-scarce environment. Learn practical strategies for workforce planning, from identifying upskilling needs to creating competitive advantages through employee development.
Whether you're struggling to fill IT positions, planning workforce strategy, or wondering how AI fits into the labor shortage equation, this episode provides data-driven insights and actionable solutions for Wisconsin business owners.
Special focus on IT professionals: Discover why certain tech roles are abundant while others face scarcity, and how smart companies are adapting their hiring criteria to find hidden talent in unexpected places.
Subscribe for weekly insights on business technology, workforce strategy, and the future of work in Northeast Wisconsin.