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In this episode, you'll get an inside look at the inaugural Virginia Workforce Symposium—a first-of-its-kind event bringing together workforce professionals from across the Commonwealth. You'll hear how the idea for the symposium came to life, what made it a sold-out success, and why collaboration across regions and roles is critical to the future of workforce development. From keynote speakers to breakout sessions on data, AI, and cross-agency partnerships, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes preview of the event's goals, challenges, and long-term vision. KRA is proud to be a silver sponsor and exhibitor at this milestone event, supporting efforts to strengthen and innovate workforce practices across Virginia.

In this special Women's History Month episode, we continue with a compelling conversation featuring Carrie Amann, Executive Director of the PA Workforce Development Association. Carrie shares her journey from local workforce boards to policy work in the Governor's office, offering thoughtful reflections on leadership, authenticity, and resilience. She discusses the importance of staying grounded through personal growth, self-awareness, and developing an inner compass—especially in times of uncertainty. Whether you're exploring leadership or looking to stay inspired in your current role, this episode is filled with valuable insights and encouragement.

In this special Women's History Month episode, host Jonathan Overall speaks with JaVette Pettaway, Program Director of KRA's Rancho Dominguez AJCC. JaVette shares her inspiring career journey from probation counseling to workforce development, highlighting her leadership philosophy centered on compassion, integrity, and accountability. She discusses KRA's recent initiative operating the Rancho Dominguez America's Job Center of California (AJCC), which aims to become the premier employment resource in the region by offering workshops, job fairs, and customized training in high-growth industries like healthcare, trucking, and construction. She also explains how KRA's approach stands out through community-connected staff, comprehensive client support, and strong employer partnerships that align training with industry needs, ultimately building economic opportunity in the community.

In this special Women's History Month episode, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Melissa Robbins, CEO of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), to explore her inspiring journey from local-level fiscal assistant to national leader. Melissa shares how mentorship, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning shaped her path, and offers candid insights on leadership, work-life balance, and empowering the next generation of women in workforce development. Tune in for a compelling conversation about the evolving world of work, the power of preparation, and the importance of community in driving lasting impact.

In this special Women's History Month episode of KRA's The Hub podcast, host Jonathan Overall welcomes Yolanda Johnson, Executive Director of CASA of Prince George's County, Maryland. Yolanda shares her inspiring journey from cosmetology to leadership in child advocacy and offers an in-depth look at CASA's mission to support foster youth through volunteer advocacy, transitional programs, and community partnerships. The episode highlights CASA's collaboration with KRA on Project LIFT, a workforce development initiative designed to meet foster youth where they are and guide them toward career readiness and independent living. Tune in for a powerful conversation about collective impact, trauma-informed care, and what it means to truly serve youth with compassion and intention.

In this special series spotlighting women leaders in workforce development, we welcome MacKenzie (MacK) Garvin, Director of the Mayor's Office of Employment Development (MOED) in Baltimore City. This engaging conversation explores the challenges and opportunities women face in leadership positions, with candid insights about the journey from practicing law to workforce development. Listeners will discover valuable perspectives on resilience, authentic leadership, and the importance of mentorship in navigating professional environments that often celebrate traditionally masculine qualities. The episode also offers practical advice for aspiring professionals on maintaining passion in service, connecting with experienced mentors, and implementing effective networking strategies in today's rapidly changing professional landscape.

Join us as Derrick Colbert, Managing Director of Operational Excellence at KRA, shares his expertise on engaging returning citizens in the workforce. Derrick explains how this labor pool represents committed employees when given opportunities. He discusses challenges faced during incarceration and reentry, along with strategies for successful reintegration—including pre-release planning, family reunification, and support services. With years of experience, Derrick also urges workforce professionals to look beyond labels and provide returning citizens with equal support. Learn how employment transforms lives, strengthens families, and stabilizes communities by reducing recidivism and creating career pathways across diverse industries.

Tune in for another episode of KRA's The Hub as Rick Beasley, Executive Director of CareerSource South Florida, shares his workforce development journey from Missouri to Florida. Rick discusses his philosophy that employers are the workforce system's customers while job seekers are the product to be developed and brokered. He explains how CareerSource South Florida transformed from an underperforming board to a leader through investments in technology, performance tools, and strategic partnerships with economic development organizations. Rick outlines his approach to creating systems that monitor compliance, measure outcomes, and connect workers to businesses in industries like tourism, healthcare, and IT. He also emphasizes the importance of servant leadership and offers insights for workforce professionals looking to drive change in their regions through employer alignment and staff development.

In this episode, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Jesse McCree, CEO of SCPa Works, following their meeting at the winter U.S. Conference of Mayors. Jesse shares insights about South Central Pennsylvania's diverse economic landscape, highlighting the region's strengths in manufacturing, healthcare, IT, and logistics. The conversation delves into the critical relationship between workforce and economic development, emphasizing their successful approach to business services through collaborative partnerships. They also explore the pressing challenge of the digital divide and AI's impact on workforce development, with Jesse presenting frameworks for both internal organizational efficiency and external service delivery. 

This episode features an interview with Felicity Williams, the deputy chief of staff for the mayor's office of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As the first black woman to hold this position, Felicity shares her journey from law school to local politics, driven by her commitment to racial justice and community development. The conversation delves into Pittsburgh's transformation from a steel industry hub to a center for technology, healthcare, and clean energy, while addressing the challenges of creating inclusive economic growth. Tune in to hear about key initiatives including the city's innovative Workforce Equity Agreement, strategies for engaging young and disadvantaged workers, and the Pittsburgh Prosperity Project.

 In this episode of KRA's The Hub, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Cory Vojack, Project Director for KRA's operations in Summit and Medina Counties, Ohio. Recording on-site in Northern Akron, they discuss Cory's extensive background in workforce development and his current role leading KRA's innovative workforce initiatives in the region. Cory shares insights about KRA's approach to developing customized training pathways, building strategic partnerships with local employers and educational institutions, and providing comprehensive support services to job seekers. The conversation highlights KRA's commitment to data-driven decision making, technology-forward solutions, and addressing the evolving needs of both employers and job seekers in key industries like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and IT. 

In this fifth episode of a special series, recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Rick Record, an experienced workforce development consultant whose journey began as a youth program participant. Rick shares his remarkable career progression from working in retail management to overseeing statewide programs for California's Employment Development Department and Medicaid services. Drawing from his extensive background, Rick offers valuable insights into performance management, youth program development, and the importance of meeting young people where they are. He emphasizes the critical need to understand and address the dysfunctional environments many youth navigate while building positive reinforcement into program design. The conversation concludes with practical advice for workforce development professionals on creating successful youth programs that focus on individual strengths rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. 

In this fourth episode of a special series, recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, host Jonathan Overall engages in two insightful conversations with innovators in workforce development technology. First, Geoff Crawford, Vice President of Virtual Reality at Vehicles for Change, discusses how their organization is revolutionizing automotive technician training through VR technology, making career pathways more accessible while addressing the critical shortage of skilled mechanics. The episode then features Andrew Kerr, Director of Solution Engineering at Fit First Technologies, who explains how their behavioral assessment platform is transforming career matching by focusing on fundamental behaviors rather than just skills and interests, leading to significantly improved job retention rates. Both conversations highlight innovative approaches to youth workforce development and the growing role of technology in creating more effective career pathways.

In this third episode of a special series, recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Darrell "Coach D" Andrews, a workforce development consultant and trainer. Drawing from his background as a former college football player, Coach D shares insights on engaging the "technology generation" and addressing mental health concerns in a post-pandemic world. The conversation explores the impact of social media addiction on young job seekers and the importance of intentional leadership in youth programs. Coach D also discusses current workforce development trends, including the need for evolved leadership approaches and better staff training in the post-pandemic era.

In this second episode of a series recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Kimberly Meadows, Training Director at NAWDP. Kimberly shares her personal journey into workforce development, beginning with her own experience as a job seeker, and discusses NAWDP's extensive training initiatives. The conversation explores current trends in youth workforce development, highlighting the importance of mental health support, innovative outreach strategies, and the growing need for digital engagement with young job seekers. Kimberly also emphasizes the value of professional certification and the importance of building collaborative partnerships within the workforce development community.  

In this first episode of a series recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Laurie Larrea, senior advisor with the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB). Drawing from her impressive 46-year career in workforce development, Larrea shares insights about the Next Level Collaborative's technical assistance initiatives and reflects on the evolution of youth workforce programs. She discusses critical challenges in youth recruitment, the importance of early intervention for 14-15 year olds, and the changing landscape of workforce development in Texas and nationally. The conversation explores emerging trends like skills-based hiring, mobile career services, and the need for improved assessment tools. Laurie emphasizes the importance of restoring hope in young adults and advocates for increased funding and holistic approaches to youth workforce development, particularly for early teens.

In this special series, hosts Jonathan Overall and Derrick Colbert take you to the heart of the Raising the Bar conference in Maryland, where they conducted live interviews with David Barch, Director of Vendor Relations and Special Projects with NAWDP, and Kara Fritz, Manager of Youth Programs and Talent Pipeline Development at Frederick County Workforce Services. Join us as these experts share their experiences, discuss current challenges, and offer valuable perspectives on the future of workforce development, all recorded live from the bustling conference floor.

In this special series, hosts Jonathan Overall and Derrick Colbert take you to the heart of the Raising the Bar conference in Maryland, where they conducted live interviews with Jody Mitchell, CEO of Directed Analytics: Foresight GPS, and Joseph Seymour, Owner of Manifest Maximum. Join us as these experts share their experiences, discuss current challenges, and offer valuable perspectives on the future of workforce development, all recorded live from the bustling conference floor.

In this special series, hosts Jonathan Overall and Derrick Colbert take you to the heart of the Raising the Bar conference in Maryland, where they conducted live interviews with Walter Simmons, President and CEO of Employ Prince George's and Executive Director of the Prince George's County Local Workforce Development Board, and Knowlton Atterbeary, President and CEO of KRA. Join us as these experts share their experiences, discuss current challenges, and offer valuable perspectives on the future of workforce development, all recorded live from the bustling conference floor.

In this special series, hosts Jonathan Overall and Derrick Colbert take you to the heart of the Raising the Bar conference in Maryland, where they conducted live interviews with influential leaders in workforce development. This episode features insightful conversations with John Hattery, Deputy Director of Career Education Service at Worksource Montgomery, Ernestine Chambers, Director of Performance and Compliance with Worksource Montgomery, and Olivia Wilson, Coordinator of Youth Career Connections with Employ Prince George's. Join us as these experts share their experiences, discuss current challenges, and offer valuable perspectives on the future of workforce development, all recorded live from the bustling conference floor.

In this special series, hosts Jonathan Overall and Derrick Colbert take you to the heart of the Raising the Bar conference in Maryland, where they conducted live interviews with influential leaders in workforce development. This episode features insightful conversations with Zack Shifflett, Director of Business Solutions with Career.io, Teni Akinwuntan, Founder of Women of Valor, and Aaron Leson, Director of Training and Development with TAD Grants. Join us as these experts share their experiences, discuss current challenges, and offer valuable perspectives on the future of workforce development, all recorded live from the bustling conference floor.

In this special series, hosts Jonathan Overall and Derrick Colbert take you to the heart of the Raising the Bar conference in Maryland, where they conducted live interviews with influential leaders in workforce development. This episode features insightful conversations with Alexis Franks, Director of Membership with NAWDP, Anthony Featherstone, Executive Director of WorkSource Montgomery, and Kirkland Murray, President of the Maryland Workforce Association. Join us as these experts share their experiences, discuss current challenges, and offer valuable perspectives on the future of workforce development, all recorded live from the bustling conference floor.

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Lee, Vice President for Education and Training at the Institute for Diversity Certification, to explore the critical realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the business world. Dr. Lee shares his expertise on the practical applications of DEI, its tangible benefits for companies, and strategies for attracting diverse talent. Drawing from his extensive experience, he discusses how diverse teams enhance decision-making, offers insights into effective DEI implementation, and provides a forward-looking perspective on the challenges and opportunities in this evolving field.

This episode features a conversation with DeVone Holt, a prominent figure in workforce development and organizational culture. DeVone shares his unique career journey, detailing his path from journalism to various roles in public relations, economic development, and education. The discussion focuses on DeVone's experiences at Goodwill Industries of Kentucky, where he worked with hard-to-serve job seekers and his perspectives on workforce culture. He also introduces his concept of the "Trinity of workforce culture" and offers valuable advice for leaders on building positive workplace environments. The conversation concludes with DeVone's tips for emerging workforce leaders, emphasizing the importance of connecting with employees and understanding their motivations and challenges.

Joining us for this episode is Rochele Burnette, Chief Consultant for Be Wellness Consulting, as she discusses the critical topic of mental health in the workplace. Rochele shares her extensive background in criminal justice and community mental health, and how she became involved in mental health first aid training. The conversation delves into the definition of mental health, the financial costs to businesses when employee mental health issues go untreated, and strategies for reducing the stigma surrounding mental health discussions at work. Rochele also offers practical tips for managers to support employees facing mental health challenges, coping with work-related stress, and promoting work-life harmony. 

Tune in for another episode of KRA's The Hub as Derrick Colbert, Director of Strategic Partnerships at KRA, joins us. Derrick shares his background and journey into workforce development, stemming from a family dedicated to service. He discusses his role at KRA, focusing on growth strategies, client acquisition, and partnership development. Derrick emphasizes KRA's unique approach to workforce development, which involves understanding the specific needs of the communities they serve and helping individuals gain stackable credentials and occupational skills training. He also highlights some of his most impactful initiatives, including a comprehensive fatherhood program and KRA's work with TANF recipients in Louisiana. Finally, Derrick shares his excitement for the future of workforce development and offers advice for those interested in pursuing a career in the field. 

Welcome back for part 2 of KRA's The Hub special series recorded live at the 2024 NAWB Forum in Washington, D.C. In this episode, host Jonathan Overall continues the engaging discussions started in part 1, sitting down with influential workforce development leaders. Guests include Anthony Featherstone, Executive Director at WorkSource Montgomery, Jaime Cruz, Executive Director for Workforce Connections in Southern Nevada, Mike Fazio, Co-President of Workforce180 and Metrix Learning, and Melissa Robbins, CEO of NAWDP. Building on insights from the previous episode, they dive deeper into key takeaways from the conference around this year's theme of "Forging Tomorrow's Workforce Today", share strategies for proactively preparing for the future of work, and emphasize the crucial role of continuous innovation and professional development in the evolving workforce development landscape. Be sure to listen to part 1 if you missed it!

In this special two-part series from KRA's The Hub podcast, host Jonathan Overall sits down with influential leaders in the workforce development space at the 2024 NAWB Forum conference in Washington, D.C. Hear insightful conversations with George Wright, CEO of the Chicago Cook County Workforce Development Board, Drew Hubbard, Executive Director of the D.C. Workforce Investment Council, and Deb Giordano, NAWB Board Member. They discuss the conference theme of "Forging Tomorrow's Workforce Today", sharing their perspectives on embracing generational change, breaking down barriers through partnerships, and the importance of intentional skilling, credentialing, and inclusion initiatives. Tune in for thoughtful reflections on the challenges, innovative solutions, and future of workforce development.

Our special guest for this episode of KRA's The Hub is Kyla Guyette, Director of Strategic Partnerships at KRA. Kyla shares her journey in the workforce development field, from her early experiences helping Hurricane Katrina victims, to her current role at KRA and on the board of the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB). She discusses the challenges facing the workforce development sector, the importance of aligning ecosystems, and the need for organizations to adapt to the changing landscape. As a woman in leadership, Kyla reflects on the challenges she has faced throughout her career, and her commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in workforce development.

This episode features a conversation with John Helton, President and CEO of CareerRise, as John discusses the critical role of workforce intermediaries in driving economic mobility and equity. He also shares insights on how CareerRise serves as both a funder collaborative and convener to support workforce development in the Metro Atlanta region. Discover CareerRise's initiatives, including industry partnerships, capacity building, and racial equity priorities. John also offers advice for leaders looking to expand their focus and partnerships to drive greater impact in workforce development.

This episode features an interview with Terrance Bowens, Program Manager for KRA, as he discusses workforce development and customer-centered design. Terrence provides background on his experience in workforce development and what drew him to the field, as well as details on the Northern Nevada region where he currently works. He outlines KRA's role as a one-stop operator facilitating connections between job seekers and employment programs and services and reveals principles of customer-centered design that shape their approach. Terrence also touches on some future goals, like enhancing systems and focusing on the aesthetic experience for customers.

Tune in for a conversation with Dawn Karber, Director of SkillsFWD and Owner of Talent Growth Group, about driving innovation in workforce development. Dawn shares tips for embracing innovation, building strong partnerships, and overcoming common barriers like fear of failure, and skills-based hiring. She also offers insights from her extensive experience in equipping leaders to be proactive change agents to prepare their organizations for the future of work.

This episode of The Hub features a discussion with Knowlton Atterbeary, the Founder and President & CEO of KRA Corporation. Mr. Atterbeary traces the origin of the company, and reveals KRA's commitment to leadership development, both within the firm and more broadly in the workforce industry, highlighting prominent professionals who began their careers at KRA. He also shares insights on employment policies gained through serving on economic advisory boards, as well as his perspective on key workforce development trends, challenges, and preparation needed for the future of work over the next 5-10 years.

In this episode, Jonathan Overall, Senior Director, Workforce Operations, provides an inside look at his own career journey and the experiences that led him to his current role overseeing workforce-services programs across the country. Discover KRA's 40+ years' culture of developing leaders from within the organization, and the value that KRA places on innovation and people. Jonathan also shares about his favorite parts of hosting the podcast and reveals what you can expect from KRA's The Hub in 2024!

This episode features a conversation with Merry Campbell, Chair of Employment and Labor at Shulman Rogers law firm, as she discusses current and upcoming legal considerations in recruiting and hiring. Touching on issues around AI, demographic data, diversity, equity and inclusion goals, and more, Merry provides perspective on ensuring hiring practices align with emerging regulations while still moving towards creating an ethical and effective recruitment process. Tune in for practical insights about successfully navigating today's shifting landscape of hiring technologies and requirements.

This episode features a conversation with Kevin Williams from the Spokane Workforce Council about the opportunities and challenges facing workforce development today. Topics covered include adopting a customer-centered approach, the need to diversify funding sources, childcare as a workforce issue, and advice for navigating turbulent times. Tune in for an insightful discussion about workforce trends and innovative solutions being implemented in the Spokane region and beyond.

This episode features a conversation with Ed Hidalgo, founder of Ed Hidalgo Consulting, as he discusses integrating career development and advising into K-12 education. Ed provides an inside look at how schools can foster career readiness and exploration starting at an early age by helping students understand their strengths, interests, and values. He also offers tangible tips for how workforce boards can engage with superintendents, CTE program directors, and other K-12 stakeholders to reinforce career awareness across the entire student lifecycle. 

This episode features a conversation with Stephanie Deese, Executive Director of the North Carolina Association of Workforce Development Boards (NCAWDB), as Stephanie provides an overview of her career journey and reveals the most pressing workforce issues facing her region today. Discover how the pandemic accelerated innovation like virtual services in local career centers, and key strategies for building partnerships between workforce boards, economic developers, and education providers. Stephanie also shares advice to developing leaders on making boards more strategic, ensuring inclusive approaches, and being part of critical conversations.

This episode features a conversation with Jade Gingerich, Director of Employment Policy at the Maryland Department of Disabilities, for an insightful discussion on disability employment. Jade provides background on her agency's mission to improve coordination of services and promote equal opportunity for people with disabilities. She outlines key state initiatives including eliminating subminimum wages. Jade stresses the importance of changing expectations around disability and work, customized employment approaches, and improved systems coordination. She also shares valuable perspectives on trends like work incentives counseling and inclusive, integrated employment.

This episode of The Hub features a conversation with Jim McShane, executive director of CareerSource Capital Region, discussing the Workforce Alliance, a collaboration of workforce boards across Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. Jim explains how the alliance allows for coordination across state lines to share best practices, partner with businesses regionally, and leverage training providers approved in neighboring states. Discover the importance of partnerships between workforce boards and economic development to provide talent that attracts businesses.

Walter Simmons, founding President & CEO of Employ Prince George's and Executive Director of the Prince George's County Workforce Development Board, joins the program to share his insights about how the workforce system can innovate to meet current and future challenges. Walter reveals the most significant changes needed in the public workforce system that will increase its relevancy over the next decade, particularly to the benefit of the nation's employers and marginalized communities. He also discusses how he has used unrestricted funds to modernize service delivery in Prince George's County.

This episode features a conversation with Cami Eakins, CEO of Career Path Services, as she provides an overview of her organization and discusses how Career Path Services is committed to serving underserved communities, including refugees, immigrants, underemployed individuals, and unhoused populations. Cami emphasizes the importance of recognizing who's already serving these communities and partnering with them to provide resources and support, as well as hiring from the communities they serve. She also shares takeaways for any organization looking for innovative ways to engage underserved communities.   

Jane Oates, President of WorkingNation, and former U.S. Department of Labor official, joins the program to share her reflections on the recent U.S. DOL Employment and Training Administration Vision 2030 Workforce Convening.  Jane covers topics including the need to focus on equity, career pathways to quality jobs, and building a strong care economy. She also reveals a shift in how workforce boards are approaching their work and the importance of sector partnerships. 

This episode features a conversation with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) expert Jeri Perkins as she talks about the importance of DEI efforts for organizations. Jeri talks about how workforce organizations can keep a focus on DEI year-round and how to move beyond "check the box" inclusion. Discover how to create a work environment where all employees feel valued. 

Josh Davies, CEO of The Center for Work Ethic Development, joins the program to discuss and define work ethic and why it matters both for employees and employers. Discover whether there are generational differences in work ethic and the impact of the pandemic and remote work. Josh also shares advice for employers who want to ensure that their employees have a strong work ethic.   

Dr. Chris Laney, Director of Government Affairs & Workforce Strategy at Lightcast, joins the program to provide an update on the labor market and why we need to "expect the unexpected." Chris provides his reflections on current trends in the labor market and the implication of those trends on the workforce system. He also shares his thoughts on the possibility of a cooling of the job market and what workforce professionals need to keep in mind given the current labor market and economic trends.     

Sandy Mead, VP of Workforce Development at Metrix Learning, joins the program to discuss the changing nature and delivery of training programs for job seekers and to provide an overview of the Metrix Learning online platform. Sandy shares advice for workforce organizations who are trying to provide training and upskilling opportunities in an impactful way. Discover what workforce leaders and organization need to think about when it comes to the future of training.     

Joseph Seymour, Managing Director, Operational Excellence for KRA, joins the program to discuss his career journey and talk about current workforce trends. Discover what workforce organizations need to keep in mind in order to be prepared for current and future workforce challenges. Joseph also discusses his vision and goals for his new role as the incoming president of SETA (The Southeastern Employment & Training Association). 

Tune in for a conversation between Jonathan Overall, Director of Workforce Operations, Program Performance for KRA, and Andy Hall, President & CEO of Trailhead Strategies Inc. Andy reveals why workforce organizations should seek to diversify their funding sources beyond traditional WIOA funds, and how diversification of funds can allow organizations to be more flexible and creative. Andy shares tips for workforce leaders about how they can start diversifying their funding and how to create sustainable alternate funding streams. To learn more about Andy and Trailhead Strategies Inc, visit https://www.trailheadstrat.com/

Tune in for a conversation with Zaskia Ruiz, Executive Vice President, Administration & Finance at KRA, and Jonathan Overall, Director of Workforce Operations, Program Performance at KRA. Zaskia discusses her career journey and the experiences that led her to become the leader that she is today. She also reveals how KRA empowers its employees and shares thoughts about how to uplift women in the workplace. 

Ron Painter, President & CEO of the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB) joins the program to share his reflections on a recent executive order in Pennsylvania that allows most state jobs to be skills-based and not require a 4-year degree. Discover what this order means for other states, and how workforce boards can advocate for similar orders. Ron also shares details about the upcoming NAWB Forum and provides an overview of the speakers joining this year's Forum and some of the topics that will be covered.    3. What does this executive order mean for other states? Do you think this will become a national trend? What are the pros (are there any cons to it) 4. What policy recommendations might you have for boards when it comes to increasing access to federal jobs?  How might other states advocate for similar orders. 5. We know that the NAWB forum is coming up, and this is a great place for workforce board members to meet, share best practices, etc. Can you share some details about that for our listeners?