NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — In Berkshire County nearly 20 percent of the workforce is age 65 and older. As the baby boomers age, the population will soon be shifting drastically to toward the 55 and older category.
This experienced segment of the labor force contributes immensely to both private and public sectors, and in paid and volunteer positions. Their contributions are being recognized through the National Employ Older Workers Week beginning Sept. 21.
According to the Berkshire County Regional Employment Board, there are 16 million Americans older than 55 who are either working or seeking work. By 2015, that number will nearly double. At the same time, a severe labor shortage is expected to begin next year as the oldest of the boomers begin to retire.
Experts say the shortage in labor will have an adverse affect on the economy unless e can keep the older, productive individuals working.
National Employ Older Workers Week provides an opportunity to increase awareness and focus on the development of innovative strategies for tapping into this underutilized labor pool, which in turn can help address the potential shortage in labor sectors. In recognition and celebration of the week, Mayor John Barrett III and Pittsfield Mayor James M. Ruberto signed proclamations on older workers.
The proclamations are meant to encourage and bring about awareness of the contributions made by older workers in the Berkshire labor market.
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