April 24 was National Administrative Professionals Day. And this year, we’re taking a different approach. At SDA, we’re celebrating how business professionals in the A|E industry with roles in marketing, finance, human resources, project management, and operations keep the firm in business. Instead of spotlighting individual achievements, we’re diving into the collective essence of our firms, celebrating the interconnectedness of diverse business functions that underpin design endeavors. Much like the celebrated Architecture and Engineering Weeks, let’s delve deeper all week into the intricate business ecosystem of our firms. Today's focus is Human Resources.

In the fiercely competitive landscape of the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (A|E|C) industry, the battle for talent rages on. As firms strive to attract and retain top-tier professionals, the role of human resources (HR) professionals becomes increasingly pivotal in shaping organizational success.

At the heart of HR’s mission is creating a dynamic and engaging workplace culture that sets firms apart as desirable destinations for experienced and talented professionals seeking growth and fulfillment. From designing effective onboarding systems to implementing robust career development programs, HR professionals play a central role in nurturing employee engagement and professional advancement.

Crafting compelling job descriptions is just the tip of the iceberg. HR teams leverage their expertise to attract candidates with the right skills and cultural fit, ensuring that each hire contributes to the firm’s overall success. Through innovative recruitment strategies and competitive compensation packages, HR professionals create an enticing value proposition that resonates with top talent.

But HR’s impact extends far beyond the recruitment process. By understanding the latest HR benefits available to the firm to save money and retain talent, HR managers leverage the firms’ benefit dollars to their maximum effect. 

Case in Point:  Cutting-edge HR conference speakers bring our members the latest 401(k) plans, health plans, and compensation trends. Many A|E|C HR managers learned about HDHP health insurance programs and HSA spending accounts early, saving their firms considerable payroll taxes by structuring health insurance premiums as pre-FICA tax deductions.

At SDA, we understand the vital importance of HR in driving talent acquisition and professional growth. That’s why we’ve established initiatives within our SDA network, including our virtual First Friday Coffee Connections and many Focus Area Forums. These platforms are invaluable member resources for sharing knowledge, exchanging best practices, and fostering collaboration within the A|E|C community.

Case in Point: Spreading the word about pursuing the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Employee Retention Credit (ERC) made a real monetary difference to the bottom line while weathering COVID for many firms.

HR professionals can be the unsung heroes of the A|E|C industry, establishing best practices to drive talent acquisition and retention while favoring the firm’s bottom line. Through their expertise, dedication, and innovative initiatives, they create the foundation for organizational success and foster a culture of excellence that propels firms to new heights of achievement.

SDA Webinars:

Super Staff: Finding & Retaining Best Talent – Lloyd Princeton – Design Management Company

How an EE Resource Group Helped Connect and Grow Our Culture - Rebecca Smith, P.E.

Join us at our next First Friday Coffee – Register Here