Harnessing the Power of Experience: Asheville's 50+ Workforce Revolution


Experienced Workers

'Experienced Workers' originated as a more meaningful phrase from community members engaging with this workforce initiative at NCWorks Career Center Asheville.  

EWI has highlighted the importance of experienced workers in today's workforce development.

The Value of Experience

The unique talent of Western North Carolinians brings perspectives that workers over 50 have seasoned value to employers.  Local business leaders showcasing the positive impact of hiring experienced workers with skills that include a wealth of soft skills to the workplace, including:

  • Leadership Abilities: Decades of experience often translate into strong leadership and mentoring skills.
  • Strong Communication: The ability to articulate ideas clearly and effectively, honed through years of professional interaction.
  • Emotional Intelligence: A deeper understanding of emotional dynamics in the workplace, fostering better team relationships.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Years of tackling diverse challenges can lead to a nuanced approach to problem-solving.
  • Adaptability: Long careers often require adapting to various roles, technologies, and industry shifts.
  • Reliability and Dependability: A track record of consistent performance and accountability.
  • Strong Work Ethic: Commitment to quality work and a professional attitude.
  • Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze situations and make reasoned decisions.
  • Conflict Resolution: Experience in navigating and resolving workplace conflicts.
  • Time Management: Efficient management of time and priorities, based on years of juggling tasks.
  • Patience: Understanding that some processes take time, based on long-term perspectives.
  • Networking Skills: Established professional networks and the ability to forge new connections.
  • Loyalty: Tendency to have longer tenures at organizations, contributing to stability.
  • Cultural Competency: Exposure to diverse work environments and practices over the years.
  • Life Experience: A broad perspective on work and life, contributing to a well-rounded approach to tasks and challenges.
    These soft skills make experienced workers over 50 invaluable assets in any employment setting.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    Common challenges faced by workers over 50 include adapting to new technologies or overcoming age biases.  With Western North Carolina assets, this group offers solutions to individuals to successfully navigate these challenges.

    Asheville's Approach

    In the heart of downtown Asheville at 48 Grove Street, career center strategies and programs are available to support 50+ workers that include:

    • Caregiver support workshops
    • Career fairs
    • Career workshops
    • Mentoring
    • Networking

    Community Impact

    Integrating experienced workers benefits the wider Asheville community, economically and socially.  Workshops and lunch & learn opportunities facilitate community dialogue to become more positive citizen with topics impacted by this initiative.

    Get Involved

    Local businesses and career seekers can participate in the initiative by:

    • Calling: (828) 251-6200 
    • Emailing: BuncombeCounty@NCWorks.gov 
    • Stopping by our NCWorks Career Center office at: 48 Grove Street Asheville

    The experienced workers in WNC have great value in community full time employment, part time employment, stipend based opportunities, entrepreneurial opportunities, and volunteering.  

    Become involved with in supporting Asheville 50+ Works today!