Skilled young workers in the Chequamegon Bay-area have it right. Like members of Fuse Duluth, they are combating the brain drain by providing meaningful networking opportunities for young professionals.

At left, our cartoon pokes a little fun at the workplace generation gap. There’s no doubt there are communication challenges today like no other time as technology-savvy Twenty-Somethings enter the workforce in large numbers and interact with Baby Boomers, who’d likely rather talk face-to-face than read the ideas of co-workers in an e-mail message or on Twitter.

The generation gap is, however, a challenge that must be met. Joking aside, this region understands how important having a young, vibrant contingent is – both at work and in our communities. But as we all chant “jobs, jobs, jobs” in our attempt to attract more youth, perhaps we should add a few more words to the chorus.

This region has long lamented the brain drain as our best and brightest seek better opportunities elsewhere – likely the Twin Cities, Madison or Chicago. But, how often do we focus on the assets we already possess?

As we hope for a better future, we can’t simply think in terms of high entry salaries. We also must consider opportunities for personal and professional growth as well as the chance to connect with other young professionals and older mentors.

This region’s advantage doesn’t lie in its wages or abundant numbers of jobs; it likely never will. It’s attraction lies in quality of life, the opportunity to live, work, play and participate in civic life on many levels and a place to raise children in a safe and healthy environment. In short, the Northland is a place where people can be an integral part of both community and workplace at a level not often found in major metros.

South Shore leaders get that, and they’re focusing on strengths rather than pining over weaknesses. Theirs is a model that can and should be embraced by any community that wants to send the message: “Young people welcome here.”

Will the Chequamegon Area Young Professionals stop the brain drain on Wisconsin’s South Shore? Not completely, but their effort is a step in the right direction.

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