About Us
Next Cycle Works is the result of an effort begun by Gov. Dave Freudenthal, AARP Wyoming and the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services in 2003. At that time, US Census projections showed Wyoming would lead the nation with the largest percentage of population age 65 and older by the year 2020.
A thriving energy industry is bringing many young workers to the state, but projections still show Wyoming in the top five states for resident's age 65+ come 2020.
Two driving forces sit behind the numbers: 1. Wyoming's oil and gas boom of the 1970s and 80s helped Baby Boomers fresh-out-of-school get into well-paying jobs, and 2. Wyoming's relatively low cost of living and low taxes attract retirees looking to stretch their savings while living in a safe, small-town setting.
In 2004, Gov. Freudenthal and AARP Wyoming hosted a summit and produced the Ahead of the Curve report to discuss what impact these numbers might have on the state's economy and local communities. Workforce issues and the looming retirement of the Baby Boom Generation (those born between 1942 and 1964) were deemed crucial parts of the equation. The focus of the initiative became known as "Boomers and Business."
Working-age Wyoming Baby Boomers were surveyed about their plans for the future. Eighty percent said they wanted or needed to keep working past the age of 65, but they didn't want the restrictions or responsibilities of a career-ladder job. They have skills and experience to share with an employer who offers them flexibility to enjoy life.
A survey of Wyoming businesses showed a significant need to keep skilled and experienced workers in the workplace. Managers didn't want to lose the institutional knowledge and the work ethic of their 50+ workers, but they didn't know how to make the necessary changes.
Next Cycle Works is intended to help both businesses and 50+ workers meet their needs. Wyoming is experiencing a significant shortage of skilled workers. Keeping and attracting experienced workers is crucial to sustaining the state's booming economy. Next Cycle Works aims to provide real-life examples of how managers have successfully met their needs while providing a flexible workplace for workers age 50+. There are many resources available to businesses and workers in the state. We'll help you navigate them.
