WDM Chamber Releases 2025 Workforce Survey Results Highlighting Hiring Demand, Skills Gaps and Youth

WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has released the results of the 2025 Central Iowa Workforce Survey, providing insight into hiring expectations, workforce challenges, and talent readiness across the region. The survey points to strong employer confidence heading into 2026, alongside growing concern about skills gaps and the need for earlier, more coordinated workforce development strategies.
 
“Businesses across Central Iowa are preparing for growth, but they continue to face real challenges in recruiting and developing talent,” said Katherine Harrington, president and CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce. “This survey gives us a clear picture of where the workforce is headed and reinforces the need for stronger alignment between employers, educators and workforce partners—especially when it comes to preparing future talent.”
 
Results from the survey show that more than half of responding employers plan to hire in 2026, while very few anticipate workforce reductions. Despite this strong demand, employers report persistent skills gaps across all experience levels, from interns to executives, with professionalism, communication, digital literacy, time management and role-specific technical skills cited most often. The findings also reveal that high school–aged workers remain underrepresented in the workforce, largely due to structural barriers such as scheduling challenges, supervision capacity, work readiness concerns and liability considerations. Among employers who do hire youth, roles are typically entry-level “gateway” positions, including customer service, internships and administrative support.
 
“The study affirms what we see every day across Central Iowa: our employers are ready to grow, but our systems are not yet aligned to prepare young people early enough for the middle-skills careers that fuel our regional economy,” said Cameron Nicholson, President & CEO of YMCA of Greater Des Moines. “The findings make it clear that intentional, coordinated, and equitable work-based learning, beginning as early as middle school, is essential. By aligning employers, schools, and community partners, we can build a stronger talent pipeline that benefits youth, businesses, and the long-term vitality of Central Iowa.”
 
“These findings reflect what we consistently hear from employers. Young people want to work, and businesses want to hire them, but stronger systems and supports are needed to connect the two,” said Joseph Jones, Chief Community Impact Officer at United Way of Central Iowa. “By partnering with organizations like the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and engaging employers directly, we are helping shape youth employment strategies that are practical, responsive, and aligned with real workforce needs. This work supports young people as they prepare for opportunity and contributes to a stronger regional economy over time.” -Cheryl Werner, Community Impact Manager for United Way of Central Iowa
 
“Workforce development is not just about filling today’s openings — it is about designing systems that prepare tomorrow’s talent,” said Dr. Marvin DeJear, DeJear, Inc. “This survey reinforces the need for earlier career exposure, stronger employer partnerships, and sustained investment in youth pathways that lead to middle-skills careers. Public investment, employer engagement, and community collaboration must move in the same direction if we want long-term returns for both our young people and our regional economy."
 
In response to the survey findings, the West Des Moines Chamber plans to expand employer engagement efforts, strengthen partnerships with schools and workforce organizations, and support businesses in creating youth-friendly job roles and training pathways.
 
“These results make it clear that Central Iowa must take coordinated, intentional steps to strengthen its talent pipeline,” Harrington said. “Our Chamber is committed to working alongside employers, educators and community partners to ensure our region remains competitive and future-ready.”
 
Full survey results and additional information are available at wdmchamber.org.
 

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About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
Recognized by ACCE (Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives) as one of the top Chambers in the nation, West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is the largest, most active chamber in the Greater Des Moines region. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, boosting economic development, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating over a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 1000 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines and our entire region at wdmchamber.org.