The reality of many in the workforce nearing retirement age continues to affect companies since the first group of baby boomers turned 60 in 2006.

Finding qualified employees to replace future retirees is continually on the forefront for companies.

Companies are reaching out to new talent with benefits that are typically part of a package, but companies also are making a point to cast a wide net when showing what they have to offer.

Technip vice president of human resources Frank Simon explained its process of attracting potential employees.

“Our on-site gyms, health and wellness programs, a flexible 9/80 work schedule, and strong community outreach really appeal to the millennial generation,” Simon said.

Simon explained how Technip approaches outreach.

“Over the past two years, we have hired 85 new graduates with a 95 percent retention rate. Gender diversity is also very important to Technip. Sixty percent of new graduates are women, and if you’re not actively recruiting those women and making sure that your corporate environment is conducive to their career aspirations, you’re potentially sabotaging yourself by cutting your future talent pool in half,” Simon said.

Keith Wolf, managing director at Murray Resources, said it has seen a dramatic increase for employees with know-how and hands-on job participation.

“Companies are reaching out to talent at all levels, but the most significant demand we’re seeing is for those with five to 15 years of experience,” Wolf said. “That’s where we’re seeing the largest talent gap. College students are seeing the same data we’re seeing regarding the pay levels for engineering talent, and more are being attracted to the field.”

Wolf said he’s seen a particular demand in the oil and gas market here.

“The most significant demand is for engineers, from process engineers to mechanical to project managers,” he said. “A close second is the demand for technical salespeople. Any time we see demand for salespeople as high as it is, it’s a strong indication that employers have confidence in their future prospects for their businesses and are focused on growth.”