Although globally, unemployment remains relatively high, not having recovered from the economic downturn of the past four years, there is still a global shortage of highly skilled employees in specific technical fields. Thus Human Resource Departments need to be proactive in recruiting and developing their labour force in certain areas.

One example of a method to simultaneously attract and develop an expert workforce involves campus partnerships. By offering students internships, HR can locate potentially excellent employees before they are on the job market, and place them strategically to develop their skills. Long term internships, including perhaps tuition reimbursement for graduate studies, works as both a recruitment (attracting) and development tool.