ANKENY, IA — At the 2021 Master Builders of Iowa (MBI) Winter Conference, Baker Group was the recipient of the Leadership in Workforce Recruitment Award. This award recognizes the outstanding efforts of companies who are actively engaging in solving the industry’s labor shortage.

Baker Group recognizes that there is a skilled-trades labor shortage to support healthy growth for Iowa. This drives the company to increase its efforts and broaden its outreach to bridge this gap. In 2020, Baker Group expanded its workforce recruitment efforts beyond the foundational programs by hiring a Talent Acquisition Specialist and Chief Human Resources Officer.

This year, when most companies canceled their internship programs, Baker Group pushed forward, despite logistical challenges due to COVID-19. The company also presented the construction trade career opportunities at local middle schools and high schools. Pre-COVID, Baker Group hosted student tours at the office. When schools went virtual, so did Baker Group, continuing to share these career opportunities.

“Many Baker Group team members are passionate about sharing the excellent career opportunities available in construction," said Cindi Summers, Chief Human Resources Officer. "Their dedication shows as they take time out of their busy day to mentor youth and share how our industry is key to supporting our communities.”