To recruit and retain new workers whose primary language is not English, a University of Wisconsin–Madison student recommended three strategies addressing guidance, accessibility, and involvement.
“My goal here has been to see how Portage can be more welcoming to these new residents, so they can fill these worker shortages,” said Alan Tipple.
Tipple is pursuing bachelor’s degrees in economics and political science and a public policy certificate through the La Follete School of Public Affairs. He was connected to the city of Portage through UniverCity Year (UCY), which is the hallmark program of UniverCity Alliance (UCA). Through UCY, Columbia County is partnering with the university for three years.
He shared his final recommendations with the Portage City Council on May 11. They include providing resources like a community welcome group, written materials in English and Spanish, and strategies to get involved in the community and in local decision making.
“I’m very honored that I was able to represent these people’s voices here today in front of you but being able to get (new residents) involved in the decision making … would also be a wonderful idea moving forward,” Tipple said.
(Alan Tipple’s presentation begins at 9:33)