Enhancing the global workforce: A Q&A with Manuel Lievano

Companies are looking beyond the domestic talent market and leveraging a visa program, like the EB-3, to find talent – especially in industries like agriculture, manufacturing, hospitality and retail where workers are hard to find.

Manuel Lievano, cofounder and CEO of MCC USA, a global workforce solution company that focuses on helping U.S. companies with proven labor shortages to recruit foreign workers, believes that leveraging the foreign workforce with the EB-3 program will help grow organizations and industries.

Can you explain what the EB-3 visa program is?

The EB-3 visa program offers a pathway for foreign workers to get a “green card” and permanent residency in the United States due to their skills and a long-term commitment to an employer. It is designed for workers who can support the operational processes and help companies achieve business objectives.

How are companies using it to find workers?

Amid widespread labor shortages, companies desperately need to fill job openings, and they are using the EB-3 visa program to find and attract talent from around the world. By hiring foreign workers, businesses can gain access to a wider pool of talent than if they were only hiring locally. By considering foreign talent, companies are tapping into diverse skills and experiences that can be valuable in driving innovation within their organizations.

What are the advantages to hiring foreign workers through this program for employers?

There are numerous advantages to hiring foreign workers through this program.

First, it helps companies fill open positions that are critical to their success. At MCC USA, for example, we help companies in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, retail and hospitality. This has allowed these organizations to maintain operational capacity to run their businesses and serve their clients.

In addition, given that foreign workers are provided with a life changing opportunity to live and work in the U.S., they become a more engaged workforce resulting in higher levels of productivity.

The EB-3 process also enhances creativity and innovation. A diverse workforce, and especially one which includes foreign workers with different backgrounds and experiences, promotes diversity of thought. These employees can bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table, helping businesses to develop new products, services, and strategies.

Finally, it’s a great way to limit turnover. Due to the stability offered by the EB-3 visa, foreign workers receiving permanent residency through the program are more likely to commit to employers for the long-term. The EB-3 visa program fosters loyalty and job satisfaction, leading to a more engaged and dedicated workforce.

Related: Meeting the compliance challenges of hiring a global workforce

How does this help mitigate labor shortages?

The global job market is always evolving, so staying abreast of the latest trends is crucial for both employers and job seekers. Right now, labor shortages are crippling businesses across industries. By leveraging programs like the EB-3 visa program, employers can attract talent and support the growth of their organization and their struggling industry overall. And at the same time, those looking for new jobs can gain access to rewarding careers in the United States. Whether someone is an employer looking to fill critical job openings or a job seeker looking for a new career opportunity, understanding the EB-3 visa program and its potential benefits can help people achieve their goals and drive success.