Opinion: Strategies for integrating international talent into the workforce

Racheal Dami Odunewu

In an increasingly globalized economy, leveraging international talent has become a pivotal strategy for regional economic growth and competitiveness. Southwest Missouri, with its vibrant educational institutions and growing industries, stands poised to benefit significantly from integrating international students and graduates, particularly those on F-1 student visas who bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives.

Understanding the talent pool
Southwest Missouri hosts a significant number of international students pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees across various disciplines. Many of these students arrive with substantial work experience from their home countries, enriching the local talent pool with diverse skills and insights. This group is primarily composed of individuals on F-1 visas, which allow them to engage in the curricular practical training for internships, 12-month optional practical training post-graduation and, in many cases, additional 24-month OPT extensions for those in STEM industries.

Strategies for integration

1. Creating inclusive hiring practices. Local businesses should adopt inclusive hiring practices that recognize and value the unique skills international students and graduates bring. These include the following:

• Cultural competency training: Implementing training programs for hiring managers and teams to foster an inclusive workplace culture.
• Flexible work authorization policies: Understanding the nuances of F-1 visa work authorizations, such as CPT, OPT and STEM OPT, and ensuring compliance while supporting the visa holders’ career growth.

2. Collaborating with educational institutions. Strong partnerships between businesses and educational institutions can facilitate the seamless integration of international talent. Strategies include the following:

• Internship and co-op programs: Developing robust internship and cooperative education programs tailored to international students’ schedules, programs and visa requirements.
• Career services support: Enhancing career services at universities to include specific support for international students, such as resume workshops, interview preparation, and customized job fairs and networking events.

3. Leveraging government and community resources. Maximizing the use of available resources can significantly ease the integration process. Businesses and educational institutions should do the following:

• Engage with economic development organizations: These entities often provide support for businesses looking to hire international talent.
• Utilize state and federal programs: Programs such as the Global Entrepreneur in Residence initiative can help international graduates transition into the workforce by offering pathways to work authorization.

4. Building support networks. Creating a supportive community for international students and graduates can enhance their integration experience. These include the following:

• Mentorship programs: Establishing customized mentorship initiatives that connect international students with local professionals.
• Cultural and social integration activities: Organizing events and activities that foster a sense of community and belonging among international talent.

Benefits to southwest Missouri
Integrating international talent offers the following advantages to the region:

• Access to a hidden job market. Opening our local workforce to international talent gives us a strategy to combat the labor shortage, which is projected to persist for the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Immigration Forum.
• Economic growth. International graduates often bring diverse perspectives that can drive economic growth and business development.
• Skills enhancement. The varied backgrounds and experiences of international talent can enhance the skill sets available within the local workforce.
• Cultural enrichment. A diverse workforce enriches the cultural fabric of the community.
• Employee retention. A report prepared by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for fiscal year 2022 reveals a 68% retention rate for international workers continuing employment over the last five years on employer-sponsored visas.

The integration of international students and graduates on F-1 visas into the workforce of southwest Missouri presents a unique opportunity for regional growth and innovation. By adopting inclusive hiring practices, fostering educational and business collaborations and building robust support networks, southwest Missouri can effectively tap into this valuable talent pool. This approach not only benefits the local economy but also ensures that these talented individuals have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and build successful careers within the region.

Racheal Dami Odunewu is the founder and CEO of Purpose Connect Inc., a platform connecting international students and employers. She can be reached at dami@purposeconnect.us.