E08: Partners in Progress: Workforce, Economic Development, and Commerce Unite

In this episode, CEO of South Central PA Works, Jesse McCree, joins us for an illuminating discussion on workforce development innovation. Leading an influential board that spans eight counties in central PA, Jesse offers insights from his nearly eight-year tenure.

The conversation delves into South Central PA Works’ pioneering strategies, including fair chance hiring initiatives and community access points. Jesse also recounts his path into the workforce development field and outlines how his organization is harnessing data, fostering agility, and embracing technology to address future labor market challenges.

Tune in as NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little, is joined by David Polk, Director of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards, and President of NASTAD (National Association of State and Territorial Apprenticeship Directors), during National Apprenticeship Week 2024. Polk shares his unique perspective as a third-generation plumber who came full circle, from proudly graduating Wisconsin’s apprenticeship program to now overseeing it. The conversation explores Wisconsin’s innovative approaches to apprenticeship, including its nationally recognized youth apprenticeship program, expansion into new sectors like healthcare and education, and strategies to support small businesses and increase program completion rates. Discover how Wisconsin partners with workforce boards and technical colleges to create successful apprenticeship pathways, and gain insights into the future of work-based learning as a solution to America’s growing skilled workforce shortage.

In this episode, NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little, is joined by Leila Melendez, CEO of Workforce Solutions Borderplex, in El Paso, Texas. Leila shares her organization’s innovative approach to adapting national workforce mandates to meet local needs in the diverse Borderplex region. She discusses creative initiatives like NextForce, HerForce, and CareForce, which are designed to engage different workforce segments more effectively. Leila also highlights the importance of strong community partnerships in providing accessible and comprehensive services, including their successful program for transitioning military personnel.

In this episode, CEO of South Central PA Works, Jesse McCree, joins us for an illuminating discussion on workforce development innovation. Leading an influential board that spans eight counties in central PA, Jesse offers insights from his nearly eight-year tenure.

The conversation delves into South Central PA Works’ pioneering strategies, including fair chance hiring initiatives and community access points. Jesse also recounts his path into the workforce development field and outlines how his organization is harnessing data, fostering agility, and embracing technology to address future labor market challenges.

In this episode, NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little, is joined by President and CEO of CareerSource Central Florida, Pam Nabors. Pat shares insights on leading a large workforce board and preparing for the future of workforce development and discusses her organization’s role in serving a diverse five-county region surrounding Orlando, including efforts to inspire career journeys for youth and to support emerging industries like semiconductors.

Learn about CareerSource Central Florida’s innovative programs, including High School Career Express, partnerships with businesses and educational institutions, and the need to embrace technology and rethink service delivery models.

Tune in for another episode of Workforce Central, as NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little speaks with Anthony Featherstone, the new Executive Director of WorkSource Montgomery, about workforce development initiatives in Montgomery County, Maryland. They discuss the county’s diverse demographics, major industries, and workforce challenges. Anthony also shares details about the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation and WorkSource Montgomery’s innovative MoCo CAP program, which provides innovative career counseling for 6th-12th graders in partnership with local schools. He also highlights the board’s community workforce network and mobile job center aimed at expanding access to workforce services. Discover the importance of community engagement, listening to feedback, and building relationships to effectively navigate future workforce challenges.

In this episode of Workforce Central, Brad Turner-Little, President and CEO of NAWB, is joined by Billy Francis, Executive Director of the Coconino County Workforce Development Board in Flagstaff, Arizona. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of workforce development in rural Coconino County, which has a large landmass and significant Native American population. Billy shares his experience coming in as a new Executive Director and undertaking a year of discovery to assess the workforce ecosystem, leading to transformative changes such as implementing a virtual referral system and rebranding the board’s message. Discover the importance of building relationships with partners like community colleges, overcoming barriers, and championing workforce development in the community.

Welcome back to an all-new edition of Workforce Central! In this episode, NAWB President and CEO, Brad Turner-Little, talks with Executive Director and CEO of Pikes Peak Workforce Center, Traci Marques. They discuss the vital role that workforce boards play in connecting businesses with job seekers and fostering economic vitality in their communities. Traci shares insights on how her organization serves the diverse needs of urban and rural areas, collaborates with economic development entities, supports small businesses, and helps military veterans transition into the civilian workforce. She also touches on exciting developments on the horizon, such as the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance the efficiency and impact of workforce boards.