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Monday, January 30, 2017

Will Diversity & Other American Values Thrive in a Trump Presidency?


The country has sworn in a new president; President Trump is barely two weeks into his office, yet it seems a different United States of America is growing before the eyes of the world. Is this the start of a new era in American history, where long-cherished American cultural values, such as freedom, equality, democracy, solidarity and diversity, are endangered? Or will these values continue to thrive in a Trump presidency?

Questions such as these are raised as a result of a string of executive orders that the new president has signed, which have been causing much alarm and concern – here and overseas - about the eroding of these basic American values. Where is America heading into the future with President Donald J. Trump at the helm?


Executive Orders

On his very first day of office, a few hours after his inauguration, President Trump lost no time in fulfilling one his strong campaign promises: the repeal of the Obamacare.

Many believe this will negatively impact poor Americans and other marginalized sectors – a repeal could lead to increases in the number of newly uninsured Americans, the number of people facing difficulties from pre-existing conditions, the size of the federal deficit, and how much money people will have to pay for their health care.
With the Obamacare, senior citizens pay less for Medicare coverage and for their prescription drugs.

Other executive orders of the president, which so far are causing fear, confusion and uproar, include among others:
* Authorizing the construction of a wall along the U.S-Mexico border;
* Reinstatement of the American policy called the “Mexico City Policy” which blocks US federal funding for non-governmental organisations that provide abortion counselling or referrals, advocate to decriminalise abortion or expand abortion services. (Wikipedia)
* Banning refugees and travelers from seven pre-dominantly Muslim countries: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

The immigration ban was ordered suspended by a NY federal court. The court’s decision, which will affect people who have been detained in airports, came after the ACLU and other activist groups filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of two Iraqis who were held at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York as a result of the order.

But confusion had taken over other airports in the country. Protesters, lawyers and lawmakers rushed to major U.S. airports on Saturday as word spread that refugees, legal permanent residents and other travelers were being blocked from entering the United States due to a new executive order from President Donald Trump.

The tech industry – among other sectors - strikes back, too. Caught by surprise by the immigration ban, [...]tech industry executives began publishing notices criticizing the new regulation and warning employees of its potential broad and dramatic impacts.
From Apple, Google and Facebook to Microsoft, Airbnb and Box, the message was pretty much the same: Limiting immigration hurts employees and innovation.

Tech company leaders say that the president's travel ban will impact their employees, and that it violates personal and company principles, the WSJ reported.

Indeed, lack of diversity still characterizes many tech workplaces, yet many strive to overcome discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, and religion; many tech companies strive to become more inclusive.

In the wake of these executive orders, a move to have California secede from the USA has been set into motion. Backers of the movement have submitted their proposal to the Secretary of State and can already begin collecting signatures.

This was announced by Secretary of State Alex Padilla, as the group pushing the proposal, Yes California Independence Campaign, has been cleared to start collecting about 600,000 voter signatures, the number needed to place the plan on the ballot. According to the group's website, "In our view, the United States of America represents so many things that conflict with Californian values, and our continued statehood means California will continue subsidizing the other states to our own detriment, and to the detriment of our children."
Although there have been previous attempts to push for the secession of California from the rest of the nation, but which have failed, the current “Calexit” proposal is reported to be supported by 1 in 3 Californians, according to a recent poll.


American core values

Among the basic core American values that define who Americans are as a people is equality of opportunity for all, including Americans of foreign descent, as well as foreigners who come to America to seek greener pasture.

Several laws have been enacted to promote this and to protect anyone from discrimination, such as the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) and the other laws enforced by the EEOC.

It is ironic that a nation that arose from the union of the different colonies of early settlers from Europe – most of whom were just simple folks in search of better opportunities in a new frontier, where they hoped to live with faith and in freedom – stands today on the brink of disunity and isolation.

America was, and until today, a land of immigrants. To the world, America symbolizes great opportunities; a welcoming nation. Therefore, immigrants from different parts of the world continue to come here and seek a better life – not only for themselves, but for their families as well.

The U.S. immigrant population stood at more than 42.4 million, or 13.3 percent, of the total U.S. population of 318.9 million in 2014, according to ACS [American Community Survey] data. Between 2013 and 2014, the foreign-born population increased by 1 million, or 2.5 percent, according to statistics.

Thus, the immigration ban and the order to build a wall along the borders, strike a painful chord in the hearts of many, as well as go against another deeply ingrained American core value, that of championing the rights of the oppressed.

Among the voices of dissent is that of Chuck Schumer, Democratic leader in the Senate, who was quoted as saying: “Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded, has been stomped upon. “Taking in immigrants and refugees is not only humanitarian but has also boosted our economy and created jobs decade after decade. This is one of the most backward and nasty executive orders that the president has issued.”


In other words, the diversity that makes up the American nation drives it toward progress.

But diversity, as it is, still faces a lot of challenges – especially in relation to its twin value of inclusion.

Hence, the building of walls, or the repeal of an affordable healthcare that the poor and marginalized sectors can have access to, and most of all, refusing entry to immigrants and refugees – will most likely pose greater challenges.

Other sectors, aside from the tech industry, are going to be adversely impacted, too, by the travel restrictions: healthcare, education, professional services, tourism, and the science & research community – just to name a few. And families.

Many employees of diversity companies, job seekers, students, non-US citizens and green holders alike, will be affected by this ban.


With that said, it would help to look at the controversial orders of President Trump, as well as all the protest actions and criticism, through the prism of hope, and to focus on the positive aspects.

For example, here's an excerpt from President Trump's immigration ban. It might be good to take these words at face value:
"In order to protect Americans, the United States must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles," Trump states in the opening section of the executive order.
"The United States cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law. In addition, the United States should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred...or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation."

It will be good to give room for the newly-installed president to grow into his new role with dignity, respect and statesmanship, as suggested by DiversityWorking.com in a previous article, Trump Win: Victory or Defeat for Diversity, and Americans can help him achieve that by giving him the benefit of the doubt.


Our social lives are abundant with these kind of self-fulfilling beliefs – both positive and negative. This is why giving people the benefit of the doubt is an effective way to reverse the self-perpetuating cycle of cynicism. - See more here:

Considering the president's political inexperience and privileged background, he may still be bungling his way around. So it is upon the citizenry to show him the way, and to appeal to his good side.

There are, of course, valid reasons for all the concerns regarding the President's orders. It is also the moral responsibility of the people to stand up against any injustice. People need to be vigilant.

But the times call for rising above partisanship, disagreements over his policies, and negative perception, difficult though it may be. And the best way could be giving the new president some leeway, giving him the benefit of the doubt.

This approach might work, or not at all. But at the very least, the American people can help ensure that their basic, cherished values remain intact. The people can signal that message to the president, by their openness, understanding and positive persuasion. 

The ongoing protests actions, marches in support of refugees, chorus of condemnation are signs that Americans will never ever allow their core values and principles be tramped. 

Solidarity. Support. These are American values that shine through amid all these crises.
Just look at how the immigration lawyers rushed to airports to offer their legal help pro bono to affected travelers.


Yes, in these troubled times, compassion is most needed. Love trumps hate. Diversity will live on.

Something to ponder: “Never underestimate the amazing power of love to change hearts and mindsets. Love can even give fresh inspiration to tackle what seems to be impossible.” - Maria Fontaine



Thursday, January 19, 2017

The Top High-Paying Diversity Jobs in 2017


What are the diversity jobs that rank highest in terms of pay for 2017? Jobs in the healthcare sector are projected to be the most in-demand jobs for the coming years. But do they pay well too?

A look at the US News Best Jobs Rankings, the 3 top best paying jobs for 2017, are:
Anesthesiologist
Surgeon
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

The rest of its list of the 25 Best Paying Jobs for 2017 shows 14 more in healthcare, 6 jobs in business, 2 jobs in sales & marketing, and 1 each in engineering, tech and social services.
Each of these three best-paying jobs, plus the rest in the list, has an average salary of more than $100,000 per year.


The US News partly based its rankings of the best jobs according to the highest projected number of openings from 2014 to 2024, as categorized by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Read here more on the US News methodology of ranking the best jobs. 

The healthcare and social assistance sector is seen by the Bureau of Labor Statistics as one of the industries with the fastest growing wage and salary employment between 2014-2024.

The 20 occupations with the highest median annual pay as of the December 2015 list published by the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) Occupational Outlook Handbook shows the top 9 jobs are in the healthcare sector. The first 8 had a median pay of equal to or greater than $187,200 per year.

These jobs include:
* Surgeons
* Psychologists
* Physicians & surgeons, all others
* Orthodontists
* Oral & maxillofacial surgeons
* Obstetricians and gynecologists
* Internists, general
* Anesthesiologists

The list continues:
* Family and general practitioners - $184,390/year.
* Chief executives – $175,110/year
* Dentists, all other specialists – $171,000/year
* Practitioners, general – $170,300/year
* Nurse anesthetists – $157,140/year
* Dentists, general – 152,700/year
* Architectural and engineering managers – $132,800/year
* Computer and information systems managers – $131,600/year
* Petroleum engineers – $129,990/year
* Marketing managers – $128,750/year
* Judges, magistrate judges and magistrates – $126,930/year
* Air traffic controllers – $122,950/year

Most of the above-mentioned occupations belong to what the BLS categorizes as Professional and Technical occupations. They require specified skills and knowledge, a college degree or higher, as well as advanced training and experience. Even at the entry level, a college degree is often required.

A Forbes article, however, citing LinkedIn Salary, gives a more updated median pay, and likewise, most high-paying jobs in their list belong to the healthcare industry.
In putting together its list, LinkedIn looked to the salary data that verified LinkedIn members provided. Each job title considered for the roster had to have at least 50 salary reports from those members. […] All in all, a dozen of the 20 jobs on the list fall into the medical or healthcare realm. Near the top of the list – at number 3 – was the position of anesthesiologist. Workers in that role, according to the numbers, earn a median annual salary of $350,000. That’s more than the median salary for a surgeon, which brings a $338,000 paycheck and placed fourth.

How about non-degree occupations, what are the highest paying jobs? Based on the US News Best Jobs for 2017 that do not require a college degree, many of these jobs are still in healthcare.
#1. Occupational Therapy Assistant: median salary is $57,870; expected job openings: 14,100
#2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: median salary is $68,970; expected job openings: 16,000
#3. Web Developer: median salary is $64,970; expected job openings: 39,500
#15. Home Health Aide: median salary is $21,920; expected job openings: 348,400
#16. Wind Turbine Technician: median salary is $51,050; expected job openings: 4,800
#23. Personal Care Aide: median salary is $20,980; expected job openings: 458,100
#24. Veterinary Technician: median salary is $31,800; expected job openings: 17,900
#25. Maintenance & Repair: median salary is $36,630; expected job openings: 83,000


For those seeking a job, and/or deciding on a career, or making a career move, the above information can be of much help. What is clear is that there are great career opportunities for both degree and non-degree holders. It is a matter of perseverance in one's job search, as well as the willingness, dedication to continually upgrade one's skills and knowledge.

Today, with the advances in science and technology disrupting many industries, continuous education can put one in good stead in making oneself hireable, and retainable. In other words, having an edge in the workplace.

For those seeking for healthcare jobs, and work for diversity-committed employers, visit DiversityWorking.com, whose mission is to help companies promote their jobs, build their brand and send targeted and qualified diversity candidates directly to the best jobs possible.










Sunday, January 15, 2017

How Manufacturing Jobs Will Fare in 2017


The Current Employment Statistics survey for the month of December 2016, by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, shows that the manufacturing industry added 17,000 jobs; durable goods manufacturing added 15,000 jobs. In general, however, since reaching a rise in employment in January, the industry has lost 63,000 manufacturing jobs.

In fact, for the past years, the manufacturing sector has been losing jobs to offshore companies where the cost of labor is said to be cheaper than in the US; thus, bringing back those jobs to the US was one of President-elect Donald Trump's fervent campaign promises. Both he and presidential contender Sen. Bernie Sanders blamed free trade for the continuing manufacturing job loss.

But early last year, CNN said in a report the 5 million jobs have lost by manufacturing since 2000 were being replaced by jobs in the health care, construction and retail industries. The report also mentions that free trade alone is not the culprit – though it has helped speed up the decline in numbers – but rather technology. Robots and machines are also replacing workers. The tech trend would have happened regardless of trade.

Another report shares the same observation. It also mentions about trade as being partly to be blame, but it's technology that is most responsible now for the decrease in manufacturing jobs. It even says that they aren’t coming back, at least not most of them. […] Because in recent years, factories have been coming back, but the jobs haven’t. Because of rising wages in China, the need for shorter supply chains and other factors, a small but growing group of companies are shifting production back to the U.S. But the factories they build here are heavily automated, employing a small fraction of the workers they would have a generation ago. 

Thus, the same report says that with that, comes a “manufacturing renaissance” with an increase in production output, but not in jobs. A report by the NAM(National Association of Manufacturers) shows that in 2015, manufacturers contributed $2.17 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2015. This figure has risen since the second quarter of 2009, when manufacturers contributed $1.70 trillion.

The Economist in a recent article likewise reiterated what both CNN and FiveThirtyEight said, manufacturing jobs are being lost to automation, not only to China and Mexico. And the idea of slapping on tariffs to punish manufacturers who export jobs makes little sense in a world of global value chains; every dollar of Mexican goods exported to America contains 40 cents of American goods embedded within it.

The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook predicts little or no change in the number of jobs for assemblers and fabricators, most of whom work in manufacturing plants, between 2014-20124, with a job outlook of -1% (Little or no change). In 2014, the number of jobs for assemblers and fabricators was 1,834,000.

So in 2017, the declining trend in the number of manufacturing jobs may continue.

According to the BLS OOH, those with technical vocational training and certification are expected to have the best opportunities to be hired especially in growing, high-technology industries, such as aerospace and electro-medical devices.

The point is that many blue-collar workers in manufacturing are getting better paid than their counterparts in other sectors, even with less education. In terms of pay, the BLS OOH says the median annual wage for assemblers and fabricators in May 2015 was $30,080, or $14.46 per hour. The typical entry-level education required is a high school diploma or equivalent, although for more advanced assembly work, experience and additional training is needed.

For those employed in higher positions in manufacturing, such as industrial production managers, the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) Occupational Outlook Handbook also shows a declining job outlook of -4% between 2014-2024. In 2014, the number of jobs for industrial production managers was 173,400. The median pay for this job in 2015 was $93,940 per year, or $45.17 per hour. The entry-level education required is a bachelor's degree.

The National Association of Manufacturers reported that in 2015, (in one of the above-mentioned sources) the average manufacturing worker in the United States earned $81,289 annually, including pay and benefits. The average worker in all nonfarm industries earned $63,830.

With the changing times though, with technology getting the upper hand, there is a need for those who would like to get ahead in the manufacturing field, technological know-how is needed today as many equipments are high-tech, for one thing. STEM jobs are going to be in demand in 2017, and many jobs in the past are giving way to more advanced ones requiring a background or knowledge of STEM.

Today, there are more jobs that do require college degrees, in keeping with the technological advances of the times. Hence, to become more productive, manufacturing is turning to technology.
Yet many workers in manufacturing have not reached college. 
  
Rather than resigning themselves to or risking losing their jobs to automation, workers and job seekers alike would do well to upgrade their skills and knowledge, especially to acquire STEM skills. If they can afford it, they should go back to school to get a higher degree, or even to just earn a certificate in any STEM course.

To check for manufacturing jobs in companies committed to diversity and inclusion, visit DiversityWorking.com.









Thursday, January 12, 2017

Keenan Job Opening for Claims Assistant, Riverside, CA


Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage/consulting firm in California, and a recently-joined prestigious diversity company member of DiversityWorking.com, is looking for a highly qualified dedicated individual to fill in the position of Claims Assistant, Riverside, CA.

Job Description of Duties & Responsibilities (among others)
  • A full-time position
  • Will be responsible for assisting Examiners in every aspect of claims administration.
  • Responsible for the essential duties which include, but are not limited to the following:
    • Data entry on all new claims.
    • Indemnity payments and cycles.
    • Request wage statement and wage statement calculations.
    • 3-point contact in conjunction with nurse on indemnity files.
    • QME (Qualified medical evaluator) process up to receipt of report.
Job Skills and Knowledge (among others)
  • Prefer prior WC Claims Assistant experience of at least one year.
  • Experience with computer terminals.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, in writing and verbally, within all aspects of job requirements.
Keenan & Associates provides a competitive compensation package. For more details about this career opportunity and to apply for it, click on this link.



Keenan Searching for a Senior Claims Examiner, Riverside, CA


Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage/consulting firm in California, and a recently-joined prestigious diversity company member of DiversityWorking.com, is in search of a highly qualified dedicated individual for the position of Senior Claims Examiner, Riverside, CA.

Job Description of Duties & Responsibilities (among others)
  • A full-time position
  • Will be responsible for administration and management of work comp claims.
  • Will be tasked with handling complex legal issues, litigation prevention and control, negotiation of settlements, lien resolutions and cost containment.
  • Incept all new Indemnity claims for the designated client, including initial contacts, investigation and compensability determination.
  • Set all appropriate reserves.
Job Skills and Knowledge (among others)
  • Candidates should have 4+ years of California claims examiner experience and a Self-Insurance Certificate, or the ability to pass Self-Insurance Test.
  • Effective in oral and written communication.
Keenan & Associates provides a competitive compensation package. For more details about this career opportunity and to apply for it, click on this link.

For Hiring, Marketing Manager, Pharmacy Division, Torrance, CA, at Keenan & Associates


Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage/consulting firm in California, and a recently-joined prestigious diversity company member of DiversityWorking.com, has a job opening for a Marketing Manager, Pharmacy Division, Torrance, CA.

Job Description of Duties & Responsibilities (among others)
  • A full-time position
  • Will be responsible for developing sales and marketing materials for all Pharmacy Division products and services.
  • The Marketing Manager will also be responsible for responding to Requests for Proposal (RFPs) for all Pharmacy Division products and services, working with the necessary vendors and internal subject matter experts
  • Analyze and audit current marketing tools (print and digital) to measure effectiveness, identify areas of improvement and define new areas to explore
  • Leverage content and repurpose across multiple private-label offerings to ensure consistent messaging
Job Skills and Knowledge (among others)
  • Must be a high-energy, creative and resourceful self-starter who demonstrates leadership skills and instincts.
  • 5+ years relevant experience in the healthcare industry; PBM industry experience preferred
  • General knowledge of the healthcare industry required
Keenan & Associates provides a competitive compensation package. For more details about this job and to apply for it, click on this link.



For Hiring Account Manager, Healthcare, Torrance, CA at Keenan & Associates



The position for Account Manager,Healthcare,Torrance,CA is now open for hiring at Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage/consulting firm in California, and a recently-joined prestigious diversity company member of DiversityWorking.com.

Job Description of Duties & Responsibilities (among others)
  • A full-time position
  • Responsible for conflict resolution and compliance on client deliverables.
  • Responsible for retention of business and increasing revenue on assigned accounts.
  • Expand existing relationships and provide consulting assistance on a wide range of benefit programs, offering recommendations and advice based on client needs, goals and objectives.
  • Provide client with daily service support, problem solving and trouble-shooting.

Job Skills and Knowledge (among others)
  • Two-year Associate’s degree in business or related field required.
  • Four-year Bachelor’s degree in business or related field preferred.
  • Consideration may be given to candidates without college credits who have over 5 years related experience.
Keenan & Associates provides a competitive compensation package. For more details about this job and to apply for it, click on this link.



Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Position for Receptionist, Torrance, CA, Open for Hiring at Keenan & Associates


The position for Receptionist, Torrance, CA, is open for hiring at Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage/consulting firm in California, and a recently-joined prestigious diversity company member of DiversityWorking.com.


Job Description of Duties & Responsibilities (among others)
  • A full-time position
  • Answer calls in a timely manner.
  • Route messages to appropriate person in a timely manner.
  • Be familiar and keep current on changes with employees, departments and extension numbers.
  • Professionally greet all visitors and applicants.

Job Skills and Knowledge (among others)
  • At least one year of heavy phones reception or call center.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office programs.
  • Possess excellent people skills

Keenan & Associates provides a competitive compensation package. For more details about this job and to apply for it, click on this link.



Keenan & Associates Searching for Claims Analyst, Oakland, CA


Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage/consulting firm in California, and a recently-joined prestigious diversity company member of DiversityWorking.com, is searching for a highly qualified individual to fill the position of Claims Analyst, Oakland, CA.


Job Description of Duties & Responsibilities (among others)
  • Is responsible for developing and delivering high quality, consistent and internally collaborative customer service to property & casualty clients;
  • Strong leadership role in assisting clients to develop, implement, monitor and measure Return-to-Work program effectiveness;
  • Leads the development and delivery of a service plan customized to meet the individual fiscal needs of each client.

Job Skills and Knowledge (among others)
  • A minimum of 5 years of workers compensation claims examiner, or equivalent, experience desired;
  • Must possess a strong knowledge of both Workers Compensation Laws;
  • Must be an effective organizer, planner, self starter and leader requiring minimum supervision;
  • Must possess excellent oral and written communication skills.

Keenan & Associates provides a competitive compensation package. For more details about this job and to apply for it, click on this link.



Keenan Job Opening for Employee Benefits Service Coordinator, Riverside, CA


A job opening for Employee Benefits Service Coordinator, Riverside,CA, is available at Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage/consulting firm in California, and a recently-joined prestigious diversity company member of DiversityWorking.com.

Job Description of Duties & Responsibilities (among others)
  • Will provide general clerical assistance to the department and will assist Account Executives, Account Managers and Service Representatives with sales and service related projects and activities in support of client maintenance and conservation.
  • Will be responsible for all marketing using the company's BenefitPoint platform
Job Skills and Knowledge (among others)
  • Must have at least four plus years of administrative experience, preferably with two years of group insurance.
  • Must be an effective communicator, both orally and written.
Keenan provides a competitive compensation package. For more details about this job and to apply for it, click on this link.