35. ‘Think Recruiting is Tough for You? Try Hiring in Alaska!’ with Shirley Akelkok of MEA

Episode #35: 'Think Your Utility Has Recruiting Challenges? Try Hiring in Alaska!' with Shirley Akelkok of Matanuska Electric Association - [an Energy Central Power Perspectives™ Podcast] The HR departments across the utility sector are facing numerous challenges as they continue to develop and build up the workforce of the power sector. Not only is there the brain drain being experienced as career-long employees continue to hit retirement age at record pace, but recruiting for the best and brightest out of school is pitting utilities against Silicon Valley, big tech, and more. That means the utility recruiter needs to get smarter, more deliberate, and highlight the unique aspects of the utility business to attract and retain the best talent. For the guest of today’s episode of the podcast, that imperative is in overdrive because she also has to demonstrate to recruits why moving out to Alaska can create such an appealing life and career, despite potential hesitations from applicants about leaving the contiguous United States and moving to a colder and more remote community. Despite those hurdles, Shirley Akelkok shares with host Jason Price and producer Matt Chester all the ways that working in the Matanuska Valley has perks that can’t be replicated elsewhere. She also shares her wisdom of recruiting practices that are applicable no matter where your utility is visited, from focusing on relationship building to embracing site visits to selling positions as part of a lifestyle rather than just a job. Shirley’s commitment to her community is evident, and by the end of this episode she may just have you checking out property in America’s northernmost state. Key Links: Energy Central Post with Full Episode Transcript: https://energycentral.com/o/energy-central/energy-central-power-perspectives%E2%84%A2-podcast-episode-30-think-your-utility-has Shirley Akelkok’s Energy Central Profile: https://energycentral.com/member/profile/shirley-akelkok Recruiting Experiences at Matanuska Electric Association: https://energycentral.com/c/hr/recruiting-experiences-matanuska-electric-association