RKL’s Workforce Strategies team is here to help you navigate the complexities of today's HR environment with the updates, reminders and insights you need to maximize your most important asset — your people. We value your feedback, so let us know what you think of this newsletter!
Employer Obligations When it Comes to Winter Weather
Winter weather creates risks such as slippery surfaces, strong winds and cold temperatures, requiring employers to actively manage workplace safety. OSHA and NOAA have partnered to promote public education on preparing for and responding to severe weather events. Their resources guide organizations and workers in recognizing and addressing winter-related hazards before, during and after storms.
How to Get Over Resistance to Changes in Payroll Technology Transformation
Transitioning to new payroll technology often raises concerns among payroll teams due to the high stakes involved—accuracy, compliance and employee trust. Resistance typically arises from uncertainty, lack of involvement and limited clarity. To minimize disruption and improve adoption, organizations should communicate clearly, involve payroll staff early in the process and offer hands-on, structured support tailored to real payroll workflows. Effective change management recognizes payroll’s unique risks and ensures stability through collaboration and practical guidance.
Rising Demand for Apprenticeships Amid Labor Market Challenges
Apprenticeship programs across fields like mechanics, electrical and manufacturing have expanded rapidly in the United States, with youth apprenticeships growing 113% between 2010 and 2020. Interest among job seekers has also increased significantly, as searches for apprenticeship positions have more than doubled since 2020 and risen by 35.4% in 2025, likely due to both challenging labor market conditions and greater visibility of apprenticeship opportunities. Overall, job seekers’ interest in apprenticeships continues to rise in absolute numbers and relative to other types of job searches.
RKL Virtual's Workforce Strategies team is here to help with your organization's recruiting strategies so you can find the best people for your open positions.
Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), employees may use leave for time spent attending medical appointments for their own serious health condition or for a qualifying family member, and this may include travel time to and from such appointments. In many cases, employees are not required to provide a medical certification to support travel-related leave, though not all travel circumstances are eligible for FMLA protection, and specific exceptions apply.
Visit RKL Virtual Management Solutions' table to talk with Lauren Stricker and Angela Ryan about how RKL Virtual can help your organization thrive in 2026.