HR Professionals Cohort Highlights Innovative Talent Pipelines and Regional Partnerships

On Tuesday, February 3rd, 27 human resources professionals from across the Greater Dubuque region gathered for a HR Professionals Cohort focused on non-traditional talent pipelines and innovative strategies to expand access to talent.

The HR Professionals Cohort is offered as a benefit to Workforce Solutions investors, providing HR teams with exclusive opportunities to learn from regional partners, explore emerging workforce strategies, and build peer connections around shared challenges. 

Designed to support employers navigating today’s workforce needs, the cohort introduced participants to regional programs, resources, and partnerships while creating intentional space for relationship-building and collaboration. The session used a rotating small-group format, with participants spending approximately 12 minutes with each organization. This structure encouraged deeper discussion, practical insight, and direct connections that can continue beyond the cohort setting.

Participating organizations and presenters included:

• Rochelle Morgan, Vertex Coach, Dubuque Community School District – Vertex Initiative
• Victor Ochoa, Business Engagement Consultant, Iowa Workforce Development
• Megan Ruiz, Executive Director, Presentation Lantern Center
• Jason Rubel, Rehabilitation Supervisor, Vocational Rehabilitation Services at IowaWorks
• Amy Green, Director of Sales & Training, Northeast Iowa Community College

Through these conversations, employers explored multiple pathways into the workforce and learned how cross-sector collaboration can strengthen talent pipelines while supporting individuals at different stages of employment readiness.

The cohort reinforced the value of intentional partnerships and highlighted how employers can leverage regional resources to expand opportunity while meeting business needs.

The next HR Professionals Cohort will be held on Tuesday, May 5 and will be facilitated by Tracy Boczkowski, Director of Employee Engagement with Conlon Construction Co. The session, Real-World Leave Scenarios: FMLA, ADA, and Leave Options, will focus on navigating complex leave situations and applying regulations in day-to-day workplace decision-making. Registration for the May cohort is now open at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/M5N292Z.

For more information on the HR Professionals Cohort, contact Mandi Dolson, Director of Workforce Recruitment & Retention at mandid@greaterdubuque.org or 563-557-9049.