What We're Reading: January 2026
We know how fast the HR and workforce landscape is moving, especially for public‑sector leaders who are juggling new technologies, shifting roles, and rising expectations from the communities they serve. With so much happening at once, keeping up can feel like a full-time job.
That’s why we pull together the most insightful, relevant reads each month.
Think of this as your curated shortcut to what matters most in HR and workforce development, no doom‑scrolling required.
We highlight the trends worth paying attention to and share quick takeaways on how CPS HR can help your agency respond with clarity and confidence.
The 62% Redesign Wake‑Up Call
Work redesign is no longer a future goal — it’s a current necessity.
A milestone leaders can’t ignore: an estimated 62% of jobs will be redesigned by 2032, but the real turning point is happening now. AI, automation, and evolving skill demands require agencies to rethink roles, workflows, and capabilities to stay competitive and maintain service quality.
Check out the article on HR C Suite:
Read MoreHow CPS HR can help:
- Organizational Assessments to evaluate role risk, redesign needs, and workforce alignment
- Classification & Compensation Modernization to update duties, competencies, and pay structures
- Training & Leadership Development to equip employees for AI‑augmented and human‑centered work
- Business Improvement Services to streamline processes for redesigned roles
The Stunning Performance Differential Between Top & Average Performers
Read more by Dr. John Sullivan:
Read MoreGreat hires deliver outsized impact — especially in public service.
This article quantifies what many public‑sector leaders intuitively understand: top performers create exponentially more value. In certain roles, high performers can contribute 8x to 300x more impact. For agencies working with limited budgets, hiring even one top performer can move the needle in meaningful ways.
How CPS HR can help:
- Strategic Recruiting Services that identify, attract, and secure top public‑sector talent
- Hiring Process Improvement Services that streamline your department for maximum efficiency
- Evidence‑Based Selection Tools that help agencies choose candidates who can deliver the greatest value
5 Top Priorities for HR in 2026
AI is transforming HR — transparency, clarity, and measured adoption are key.
Great Place to Work outlines the biggest priorities for HR leaders in 2026, centered heavily around AI’s growing influence. Key themes include understanding how AI affects core HR functions, building employee trust, defining meaningful success measures, and shifting time savings toward higher‑value work.
Full Article by Great Place to Work:
Read MoreHow CPS HR can help:
- AI‑Impact Organizational Assessments to determine workflow, role, and skill implications
- Training on Change Management & AI Readiness to help managers and employees adapt
- Business Process Improvement to ensure AI adoption creates measurable value
One pattern is unmistakable: 2026 is a year of strategic workforce evolution.
CPS HR Consulting is here to help agencies shape the future of their workforce through:
- Workforce and organizational assessments
- Recruiting and talent acquisition
- Classification and compensation modernization
- Leadership and staff training
- Business and process improvement
If your agency is preparing for what comes next, we’re ready to support you.
Want these insights as they happen?
Follow CPS HR on LinkedIn for real‑time articles, trends, and workforce guidance.
Ready to learn more? Explore related resources:
Find Out How
CPS HR Consulting Can Help You
Every business has unique HR needs. Working together we’ll find the right solution to achieve your goals.
Connect with an HR Professional