Incarcerated firefighters play key role in L.A. wildfires | 3 keys to PepsiCo's human resources approach | Mid-career crisis linked to job type, study shows
About 800 firefighters who are incarcerated are assisting in combating the severe wildfires in Los Angeles County, providing essential support alongside thousands of emergency personnel. Despite their significant contributions, these firefighters face challenges in securing employment post-release, highlighting the need for better transition pathways into professional firefighting roles.
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PepsiCo's strategy for managing its workforce effectively depends on creating an inclusive culture, doing as much as possible with technology and prioritizing employee well-being, says CEO Ramon Laguarta. The company says its focus areas have led to better retention, employee engagement and recognition.
More than half of US workers feel disengaged from their jobs, which can affect mental health, motivation and cognitive function, write brand strategist Rebecca Horan and executive coach Melissa Karz. Incorporating more purposeful interactions such as joining or creating a collaborative project or seeking out community can help reignite your energy and sense of purpose, they suggest.
More employers, including the San Diego Police Department, Qualtrics, and Johnson & Johnson, are offering onsite daycare to attract and retain employees, addressing the challenge of finding affordable child care. This initiative provides convenience and cost savings for employees, but the high cost of maintaining these services and the lack of public funding pose challenges, causing some experts to suggest that subsidies for offsite care are a more sustainable solution.
Financial wellness technologies are becoming a key employee perk in 2025, with companies like Salt Labs and Dayforce leading innovations in on-demand pay and financial planning tools. As economic conditions tighten, HR leaders are leveraging these benefits to boost engagement without increasing wages, addressing workers' financial priorities such as credit improvement and emergency savings.
My paternal grandfather Bill Namahoe was a firefighter in Honolulu. He was perfect for the role -- strong, smart, focused and athletic. He took the work seriously and enjoyed it. He served nearly 20 years in the field before retiring and changing careers to music.
I’ve thought of Grandpa often in the last week as fire crews battled the wildfires in and around Los Angeles. Thousands of firefighters, emergency personnel and National Guard members from across California and other states have come together to get the fires under control.
I spoke with a former member of one of these inmate crews. He liked the program. Eligibility is based on physical and mental fitness and criminal history. (People convicted of arson, sexual assault and attempted escapes are ineligible.) Participation is voluntary, though he was paid. He enjoyed the work. “Better than sitting in a [expletive] cell,” he told me.
Princess Griffen, mentioned in today’s top story, had a similar perspective about her time spent in a fire camp. Griffen, no longer incarcerated, said the experience gave her a sense of purpose. “It felt like you were doing something that mattered instead of rotting away in a cell,” she said.
I get it. I respect it.
And I appreciate it. To the scores of men and women battling the blazes to save homes and lives, thank you. I am praying for your safety.
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