BECKLEY, W.Va. — An updated workforce study was presented during the Parkways Authority’s December meeting at the Tamarack Conference Center.
The study was compiled by the Appalachian Transportation Institute at Marshall University beginning in September. The goal of the study was to address the high turnover and low retention rates within the Parkways Authority.
All employees were given an anonymous, online survey to complete in five weeks. Report organizers and the Authority alike were surprised to get such a high response rate, at roughly 75 percent.
Principal Investigator Dr. Diana Long presented the information to the board saying that 44.4 percent of employees responded as “satisfied” while another 19.7 percent selected “very satisfied” when asked about their current positions. The report also revealed employees felt valued, with 56.0 percent saying their job is “very important” to the organization.
The study went further to show why, despite high marks in satisfaction and self-worth, turnover rates were so high. When asked why other employees leave, roughly 70 percent indicated there were “no opportunities for career growth”. A follow up question showed 96 percent of those surveyed want improved pay and benefits.
A chart of wage comparisons to other states show West Virginia’s Parkways Authority workers earn less on average than workers with the same job description in neighboring states Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. Occupations compared in the study included highway technicians, information technology, mechanic heavy equipment operators and toll collectors.
Parkways Authority General Manager Greg Barr told Long they realize factors such as salaries need to be reconsidered and updated.
“It’s a dilemna. $9.60 (per hour) is not enough to attract the workers needed,” Barr said.
Based on their study, the report recommends the Parkways Authority consider expanding opportunities and pay.
“If WVPA wants to improve retention and reduce turnover they need to improve pay and benefits and provide opportunities for growth and development which includes, but is not limited to, comparable salaries, career pathways and inducements for advancement such as educational and credential attainments.” -W.Va. Parkways Authority Workforce Study 2017
The Parkways Authority has previously done similar studies in both 2007 and 2014. The board they will consider all aspects and suggestions of the report over the next several months.
For a full MetroNews report on the meeting, click here.