The HRCI Research Hub brings together original studies, workforce polling, reports, and expert analysis, so you can act on what's happening now and prepare for what's next.
The State of HR Featured ReportsRecovery as a Workforce Strategy
Drawing on HRCI research, workforce data, and expert insight, this report examines the workplace impact of substance use disorder and the practical steps HR can take to strengthen culture, manager readiness, benefits, policies, and recovery support.
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Original research and expert analysis on the issues shaping HR today, from workforce safety and emerging technology to DEI and employee well-being.
From return-to-office decisions and hybrid work to contractors and other non-traditional workers, this HRCI report explores the latest research and how HR can use data to make more informed, evidence-based workplace decisions.
From career paths to culture, this research identifies what actually separates HR professionals who are just getting by from those who are truly fulfilled—and what leaders can do to close that gap and build a more committed team.
This research uncovers where professional development is falling short, from misaligned training priorities to gaps in AI readiness, and what it takes to build a workforce equipped for what's next.
From bullying, political tension to substance use and violence prevention, this research covers workplace safety—what the data reveals, what's at stake, and what you can do to reduce risk and build a more resilient organization.
The State of HR
Based on HRCI’s survey of thousands of HR professionals, the State of HR report examines the issues defining the profession today. From AI and workplace culture to talent, leadership, and career growth, the report reveals how HR teams are adapting to change and preparing for the future. Explore the data, trends, and insights shaping the world of work below.
Download the Full ReportState of HR Spotlight Reports
Half of HR professionals work in environments marked by polarized viewpoints, and 4 in 10 describe their stress as extreme or high. Find out what the data reveals about conflict, mental health, and what it means for your organization.
HR professionals are broadly optimistic about their field — but over 4 in 10 are considering careers outside of it. Explore what's driving both the enthusiasm and the tension, and what it takes to build a team of true HR believers.
71% of HR professionals use AI regularly, yet more than half say implementing new technology is the area they feel least prepared to handle. See where the preparation gap is widest and what needs to change now.
83% of HR professionals believe remote work benefits organizations—but the debate is far from settled. Get the data on where HR stands on flexibility, productivity, and the return-to-office conversation.
More Insights for HR Professionals
Explore the issues shaping HR today and get the data you need to lead with confidence, make informed decisions, and move the profession forward.
Recovery friendly workplaces reduce absenteeism, improve retention, and strengthen workplace culture—yet most organizations haven't made meaningful progress. This HRCI and Fors Marsh research reveals why: stigma, undertrained HR teams, and weak leadership buy-in top the list. Understand where the gaps are and what organizations that get it right do differently.
Earning an HRCI certification builds earning power. Within four years, the median HRCI certificant earns 33% more than they did before getting certified. That's double the salary growth of comparable HR professionals over the same period. See what the data shows about the career and financial impact of HRCI certification.
HR is ready to lead, but is the organization ready to let it? This 2024 HRCI and MindEdge research report surfaces a striking disconnect: while 88% of HR professionals believe HR should drive business strategy, only half say leadership agrees. Add in underfunding, understaffing, and persistent burnout, and the case for rethinking HR's role has never been stronger.
AI is reshaping the workplace, and HR professionals are watching closely. This HRCI and MindEdge survey of HR practitioners reveals how the profession is navigating AI adoption, persistent burnout, rising turnover, and the evolving push and pull of remote work. Find out where your peers stand, and what the data means for the work you do every day.
Browse our complete library of research reports, guides, and frameworks. Whether you're building a business case, navigating a workforce challenge, or staying ahead of what's next, the intelligence you need is here.
From rising absenteeism to safety risks, HRCI research reveals how extreme weather is reshaping workforce management and what HR can do now.
Over three-quarters of HR professionals use AI weekly, but most have had little to no training. Learn how to build real confidence and capability starting today.
Explore how HR can turn AI adoption into a strategic advantage—balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.
This research-backed guide gives HR professionals the data and practical steps to build a recovery-friendly culture that reduces risk and supports your people.
The report explores the realities of managing DEI programs in today’s climate—where values alignment, stakeholder trust, and business performance are all on the line.
This report provides critical insights and actionable strategies for HR leaders to foster a more harmonious and productive work environment.
HRCI webinars go beyond the basics. Each session unpacks the trends, data, and real-world strategies HR professionals need to lead with confidence today and adapt to what's coming next.
News and perspectives on the issues driving the HR profession forward.
How did you get started in HR?
Several years ago, I graduated from Florida International University (FIU) with a
Master in Public Administration (MPA) and a Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Policy and Management. I always knew I wanted to one day work in the field of HR. However, I continued working on the management side of things. I helped manage the Standards Development Department of the American Welding Society (AWS) and later worked alongside the former Executive Director of AWS, where I was given the opportunity to work with the Board of Directors and help on several strategic projects. One of the strategic projects I am most proud of is designing and developing the first ever centralized customer service department at AWS.
Fast-forward close to two years ago when I took the plunge and officially moved to HR. Since the move to HR, I have focused on building systems and processes to streamline the HR Department and implementing new initiatives in talent recruitment, training and development, and employee relations.
What organizational HR initiatives are you most proud of?
I am very proud of several achievements in my time in HR:
How did HRCI certification help you in your HR career?
Although I have several years of transferable HR experience and a Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Policy, I only have a couple years as an Associate Director in HR. I wanted to demonstrate to myself and to others that I have the mastery of the human resources principles needed to succeed.
I chose HRCI for certification because HRCI has been the gold standard of HR credentials for more than 40 years. HRCI has built a strong reputation for having credible exams that truly validate an individual’s mastery of HR. I feel that passing the PHR is like passing the Bar for an attorney, the CPA for an accountant or the CWI for a welder.
How else did you benefit from your certification experience?
I spent many months of preparing for the PHR exam. We all are faced with life’s challenges and distractions and setting time to continuously learn and expand our skill set is not something we will do if we do not set a goal. The HRCI certification was that goal for me. At the end of my preparation I hoped to pass the exam, but I felt that if I had not passed I would have still felt accomplished because of all that I had learned through the process.
What advice would you give to future HRCI certification holders?
Prepare as much as possible, read as much as possible, and commit.
Who has had the biggest impact on your HR career?
Gricelda Manalich, our former Corporate Director of HR and Compensation. Gricelda worked at AWS for 37 years and is known internally and externally by our stakeholders as an individual who is highly respected and credible, because of her high standards of ethical behavior, professionalism and levels of service. I am very honored to have worked, learned and been mentored by her.
What are your future goals?
I am a strong believer that an organization’s competitive advantage comes from the people who make up the organization. That is why I feel that my career goal is to ensure that we do not lose sight of this critical component to our organization’s success.
What does the future hold for HR?
The HR role is no longer administrative. We, as HR professionals, need to build strategic importance within our organizations by solving problems and adding value and in doing so we help our organizations achieve their objective and goals. To quote Ray Shook, former Executive Director of AWS: “It’s not about activities, it’s about results.”
The American Welding Society advances the science, technology and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide. Learn more about Alex Diaz on his LinkedIn page.