Jacqueline Barton, CEO, Specialized Staffing Solutions

By Phil D’Amico, director of business growth, The Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph County

I recently sat down with Jacqueline Barton, president of Specialized Staffing Solutions, LLC, to discuss South Bend’s prospects as a recruiting mecca for technology-based jobs and growth.  

Jacqueline Barton, president of Specialized Staffing Solutions, LLC

Jacqueline Barton is no stranger to managing business through tough economic times. She started Specialized Staffing Solutions in 2001 during a downturn in the economic cycle. For Jacqueline, the more challenging the situation, the more satisfying the results. Today, specialized Staffing has expanded to five locations throughout the Midwest.  

Phil D’Amico: When did you move to South Bend and where did you relocate from? 

Jacqueline Barton: I came to South Bend in 1990 from Northern California after spending a great deal of time in the  San Francisco, Bay Area.   

PD: Did you move here because of our weather or the view you have of the Golden Dome? 

JB: Certainly the weather in the Midwest is enticing, but I actually relocated here because I had a wonderful opportunity with a regional staffing company based in South Bend. I accepted the position and was responsible for recruiting people for technical, IT-related and engineering positions in the region.  

PD: Do you feel today that our community has enough individuals in those fields you just mentioned? 

JB: If there were fields that may be underserved in our community, it may be in the areas I just mentioned. Now that is not to say we can’t get there in a very short term but we need to engage many entities to make that happen. 

PD: What has to change in our region to help us prepare for those and other skilled jobs in the future? 

JB: Well first and foremost, we really need to focus on our K-12 education. Secondly, we need to partner with universities and colleges in our area to make sure their curriculums are aligned with where our business community is going. And finally, we need to make sure we collaborate with business, education and government. There needs to be a renewed emphasis and focus on workforce readiness. We are going through a great deal of change and we must be ready to adapt. 

PD: Describe what it is like to recruit talent to South Bend. 

JB: It’s a pleasure recruiting individuals to our community, as it has so much to offer. The cost of living is very reasonable, we have a good quality of life, it is centrally located, and it does not hurt to have Indianapolis and Chicago close by.  The climate is business-friendly, and the area’s universities and colleges, particularly the University of Notre Dame, are a huge plus. People can get involved and make a difference immediately. You don’t get lost in the system in a community this size; people can make an instant and positive impact. Lastly, the people in our community have a solid work ethic. I noticed that right away. 

PD: So what should South Bend be focused on, moving forward? 

JB: We need to strive harder to recruit and retain young professionals. We also need to encourage and support entrepreneurs. We have so many bright people in our community doing so many great things in technology-driven businesses, we just need to create an atmosphere that promotes and encourages business start-ups.  

PD: What are the prospects for a strong job recovery in the coming year? 

JB: There will be a recovery, but employee growth will be slow moving for the first two quarters. Individuals need to continue to improve and increase their skills. They need to be ready when companies start to really ramp up their workforce. 

PD: You really do love what you do, don’t you? 

JB: There is no greater thrill than to help individuals find life success. Helping people and helping our community are what get me up and excited to work every day. 

PD: Do you ever get a chance to slow down and enjoy life? 

JB: I really work at balancing my life. My faith, family, work and community are all so important. All of it is what keeps me going.