At a recent Congressional hearing, an expert with the Government Accountability Office shared that skills gaps are plaguing most federal agencies, dragging down efficiency and driving up waste. It's a pain point felt by many private orgs.

The Institute for Corporate Productivity recognized a dozen innovators in HR, including thought leader, professor and researcher Peter Cappelli and Dow CHRO Lisa Bryant.

As the anniversary of the U.S. shutdown approaches, one HR leader advises that it's critical for HR to say, "What are the lessons we learned?"

Apple's $500 billion investment underscores the value of technical skills, long-term talent and innovation—even amid economic uncertainty.