The Next Generation Challenge: Incorporating the Local Government Managers of the Future

Abstract

Generational change in government employment presents numerical, attitudinal, and organizational challenges. There are more impending retirements in government than in the economy generally, and the number of young professionals available to fill vacancies is relatively small. A survey of Masters of Public Administration students at five universities and other research show the strong public service values among the younger generation, as well as document an interest within this cohort in working across sectors and levels of government. Professional associations and local governments will have to do more to make work inviting and engaging. They can also expect to make efforts to reenlist persons who either start work in government and go elsewhere or enter work in government later in their careers.