Opportunities for onboarding, development, and advancement are crucial to retaining staff in health departments. According to the 2024 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey (PH WINS), only 22% of the public health workforce has a public health degree, underscoring the importance of public health-focused onboarding for new employees. Additionally, 40% of employees considering leaving in the next year cited a lack of opportunities for advancement as a reason for leaving. 

A new employee’s onboarding is one of their first experiences at an agency, and, if done well, can build a strong foundation for lasting engagement. Similarly, offering opportunities for development and advancement can impact long-term engagement and retention.

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