Southeast Texas Works!

In this episode we talk with leaders from Mason Construction—Le Short, Kyle Kibodeaux, and Butch Hart—about in-demand careers like Hydro Excavation Operators and Project Managers, their Craft Training Program, partnerships with Lamar University and Texas A&M University, and their strong support for workforce development in Southeast Texas. Career pathways and the importance of raising awareness about construction careers within the education system are also discussed. Visit https://www.masonconstruction.net/ for more information.

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Thomas Johnson, outgoing president of Lamar State College Orange, and Dr. Wendy Elmore, incoming president and current Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. Dr. Johnson reflects on his impactful seven-year tenure—marked by record enrollment, 40+ new vocational programs, and national recognition for student success—as he prepares for retirement. Dr. Elmore shares her vision for the future, including expanding workforce-aligned programs, deepening industry partnerships, and continuing to make higher education accessible, relevant, and transformative for Southeast Texas. Together, they discuss the college's legacy and its bold path forward. 

Lamar Institute of Technology's (LIT) Fire Academy is shaping the next generation of firefighters through hands-on training, industry certification prep, and real-world simulations. In the latest episode of the Southeast Texas Works! podcast, we sit down with John Randall, Coordinator of Fire Protection Technology at LIT, to discuss the path to becoming a firefighter, salary expectations, and the growing demand for professionals in the field. He also highlights the importance of mental resilience in a career that requires bravery and endurance. Don't miss this insightful conversation! For more information about LIT's Fire Academy, visit www.lit.edu/fire

In this episode, we go beyond the thrift store and explore how Goodwill Industries of Southeast Texas & Southwest Louisiana is transforming lives through workforce development. Michelle Richer-Mengerink, Vice President of Mission Services, shares how Goodwill provides job training, career services, digital skills education, and financial empowerment programs to help individuals achieve long-term success. Tune in to learn how Goodwill is breaking barriers to employment and creating opportunities in our community. Michelle also previews upcoming initiatives including a new location in Jasper with their sixth career center, a new retail location in Groves, and a financial literacy program launching later in the year. For more information, visit https://goodwilltxla.org/.

Tune in for a conversation with Aaron Demerson, president and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation, as he discusses how Texas maintains its position as a top business destination. Mr. Demerson explains how the organization markets Texas both domestically and internationally, emphasizing the state's business-friendly climate and workforce development initiatives. He also highlights the critical partnership between economic development, workforce training, and education, which he calls Texas's "secret sauce." Discover how Texas EDC collaborates with local workforce development organizations, supports various industries from manufacturing to technology, and helps both large corporations and small businesses thrive. 

Join us as we welcome Kelly Krick, Union Representative at Seafarers International Union of North America (SIU), to discuss the vital role of the Merchant Marine and the career pathways it offers. In this episode, we explore the process of becoming a Merchant Mariner, key certifications, and training opportunities. Discover insights into wages, job stability, industry growth, and how SIU supports mariners in navigating an ever-evolving maritime industry. Whether you're considering a maritime career or curious about life at sea, this episode offers a wealth of information and inspiration. For more information about the Seafarers International Union, visit www.seafarers.org.

We sit down with Charlie Foxworth, Broker/Owner of REMAX ONE and past president of the Beaumont Board of Realtors, to discuss the current state of the real estate market in Southeast Texas. Charlie shares valuable insights on housing trends, market challenges, and the impact of large-scale industrial projects on local real estate. We also dive into real estate career opportunities, how to get started as an agent, and what young people should focus on when entering the industry. Don't miss this comprehensive real estate update from one of Southeast Texas's leading real estate professionals. For more information on the Beaumont Board of Realtors visit https://www.facebook.com/BeaumontBoardofREALTORS

We speak with Gavin Jones, Regional Director of the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC), about the growing opportunities in semiconductor manufacturing in Southeast Texas. Gavin explains how TMAC is offering virtual reality-based training to prepare workers for a field poised for growth as manufacturers expand into the region. We also explore how AI is transforming the manufacturing industry, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses and the workforce. For more information on TMAC, visit https://www.lamar.edu/texas-manufacturing-assistance-center/index.html

Tune in for an interview with Casey Sullivan-Flood, Recruiter for Acadian Ambulance, as she provides an in-depth look at careers in emergency medical services. Casey shares her journey from paramedic to recruiter and offers valuable insights into the roles of EMTs and paramedics. She discusses Acadian's training programs, including their National EMS Academy, and describes the day-to-day life, challenges, and rewards of working in EMS. The conversation covers a range of topics, from salary and career advancement opportunities to Acadian's crucial role in hurricane response. Whether you're considering a career in emergency services or simply curious about the field, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of the vital work performed by Acadian Ambulance in Southeast Texas. To learn more, visit: https://acadianambulance.com/locations/texas/

In this episode, we sit down with Kay Decuir, the Executive Director of Nederland Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Kay provides a comprehensive overview of her role and the EDC's mission in fostering economic growth in Nederland, Texas. She also discusses the city's strategic location, its robust infrastructure including ports and transportation networks, and the ongoing major projects that are shaping the local economy. Discover the unique advantages Nederland offers to businesses, the challenges faced by employers, and the EDC's approach to site selection. 

Jon Davis, COO, and Jacquetta Alleman, Director of Marketing, at H.B. Neild Construction join the show to talk about the company's history, in-demand jobs, and career pathways in the Southeast Texas construction industry. Learn about the skills needed, opportunities for growth, and future trends shaping the field. The company's new Orange location is also discussed. For more information about careers at H.B. Neild Construction, visit https://hbneild.com/careers/. 

This episode features an interview with Robert Grimm, Emergency Management Coordinator for Jefferson County, Texas. Robert discusses his role in preparing for and responding to various emergencies, with a focus on hurricane preparedness. He explains the steps taken by the county when a hurricane is approaching, including evacuation procedures, resource staging, and damage assessment. He also touches on other emergency scenarios like industrial incidents and mass casualty events. The conversation covers topics such as the Southeast Texas Alerting Network (STAN), the importance of having an emergency plan, and recent hurricane activity in the area.  For more information about Jefferson County Emergency Management visit https://co.jefferson.tx.us/em.htm

This episode features a conversation with Ana Pereda, Executive Director of Workforce at Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT). Ana discusses her role in managing and developing LIT's non-credit training programs, emphasizing their responsiveness to community workforce needs. She also highlights innovative approaches such as integrating English as a Second Language (ESL) components with technical training, and details various in-demand programs including CDL training, appliance repair, and leadership courses. Discover how LIT is adapting its programs to meet the evolving workforce demands of Southeast Texas. To learn more, visit:  https://www.lit.edu/workforce-continuing-education

In this episode of the Southeast Texas Works podcast, we speak with Carrie Phillips, plant manager at the Chevron Phillips Chemical Orange plant. Carrie shares her unique journey to becoming a plant manager, the importance of mentorship, and her day-to-day responsibilities in ensuring the safety of her team and the community while producing high-quality plastic products. She discusses the challenges and rewards of her role, the jobs in high demand within the petrochemical industry, and her advice for young students, particularly women, interested in pursuing careers in this field. Tune in to learn more about the vital role of the petrochemical industry in our everyday lives and the exciting career opportunities it offers.

This episode features a conversation with Paul Swetish, Fire Chief, and Brian McDonald, CEO and President of Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC). They discuss the unique aspects of industrial firefighting and how RTFC, founded in 1948 in response to the deadly Texas City industrial fire, has become the largest non-profit industrial firefighting organization in the U.S. Chief Swetish outlines the career pathway and rigorous training to become an RTFC firefighter and reveals RTFC's specialized equipment, unified command structure, and emphasis on safety. Discover the strong need for new recruits to join RTFC as industrial firefighters in the growing Southeast Texas region. To learn more, visit: www.rtfc.org

Megan Romero Layne, Executive Director of the Orange County Economic Development Corporation, joins the podcast during Economic Development Week for an insightful discussion on the multifaceted role of economic development in driving growth, creating opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life in Orange County. Megan shares her expertise on attracting major projects like the Golden Triangle Polymers facility, fostering strategic partnerships, developing a skilled workforce, and improving quality of life factors. Join us as we explore the collaborative, multidimensional nature of economic development and its potential to transform a region's economic landscape. To learn more about the Orange County Economic Development Corporation and their initiatives, visit https://orangecountyedc.com/.

Tune in for a conversation with Dana Espinal, Director of the Lamar State College Port Arthur Small Business Development Center (SBDC). With over 30 years of experience as  a small business owner and trusted advisor, Dana shares her wealth of knowledge on how the SBDC supports entrepreneurs and small businesses in Southeast Texas. From one-on-one consulting and training programs to navigating SBA loans and certifications, Dana provides invaluable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners. She also discusses the importance of community engagement, youth entrepreneurship, and supporting local businesses to foster a thriving small business ecosystem in the region. For more information, visit: https://www.sbdc.uh.edu/sbdc/Lamar_State_SBDC.asp

Join Dr. Johanna Boult, Department Chair, and Chelsea Lyles, Director of SLP Clinical Services in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences at Lamar University, as they discuss the diverse career opportunities available in speech-language pathology and audiology. Gain valuable insights into the training programs offered and learn how they can prepare you for a rewarding career in speech and hearing sciences. Whether you're considering these professions or seeking to advance your current career, this podcast provides essential guidance for navigating the field with confidence. For more information visit https://www.lamar.edu/fine-arts-communication/speech-and-hearing-sciences/

Join us as we sit down with Sgt. Jeremy Kempt, a dedicated Career Counselor for the Texas Army National Guard. From discussing the recruitment process to understanding the Guard's pivotal role in disaster response, Sgt. Kempt sheds light on the diverse array of careers within the Guard and shares insights into his recent participation in the Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Youth Career Expo. Tune in as we uncover the opportunities, challenges, and invaluable experiences within the Texas Army National Guard, and how it intersects with workforce development. For more information visit https://www.nationalguard.com/texas

Beaumont City Manager Kenneth Williams shares the dynamic vision for downtown Beaumont, discussing how innovative projects like a food truck park and river walk could reshape the city's landscape while fostering economic growth and community vibrancy. Also, learn about collaborative efforts addressing pressing workforce challenges and ensuring a skilled workforce. For more information about the Downtown Plan, visit https://beaumontvision2035.com, and for more about the city of Beaumont, visit www.beaumonttexas.gov.

We sit down with Paul Blackburn, Customer Service Manager at Entergy Texas, and discover the diverse career opportunities within the energy sector. From utility line workers to customer service roles, learn about the pathways to pursue these rewarding careers. Also, Paul shares insights into Entergy Texas' resilient response to hurricanes, freezing temperatures, and other challenging weather conditions. Explore how Entergy Texas' commitment to community extends beyond power supply, as they play a key role in economic development for our area. For more information on Entergy Texas visit https://www.entergy-texas.com/

Explore the dynamic world of engineering excellence in Southeast Texas with Dr. Brian Craig, the Dean of the College of Engineering at Lamar University. In this episode, discover diverse career pathways to becoming an engineer, gain insights into the pivotal role of education, and hear inspiring stories of success. Join us as we delve into the latest technological advancements and navigate the thriving hub of engineering innovation in Southeast Texas. For more information visit https://www.lamar.edu/engineering/index.html

In this episode of Southeast Texas Works, Captain Andrew Guidry from the Sabine Pilots Association provides insights into maritime careers, detailing training, and the pivotal role of marine pilots in ensuring safe navigation of commerce through the Sabine Neches Waterway. Captain Guidry highlights the symbiotic relationship between the maritime industry and the Southeast Texas economy, especially its influence on the petrochemical sector. For more information on the Sabine Pilots Association visit www.sabinepilots.com

This episode explores the importance of skilled trades and craft training for the local Southeast Texas economy. Tune in to learn about the various training programs offered by ABC Southeast Texas to fill high-demand jobs like electrical, instrumentation, welding, and more. You'll also gain insight into how ABC partners with industry to keep training aligned with the latest technology and safety standards and the various career pathways in the skilled trades as an alternative option to a 4-year degree. To learn more, visit: http://www.abcsetx.org/

From the "Best of" Southeast Texas Works!  Jo Ikard, District Supervisor - Gulf Coast, Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), joins this SPECIAL EPISODE for VETERANS, ahead of Veterans Day.  Ms. Ikard, a USMC vet, talks about how the TVC helps veterans transition from military to civilian life. Website:  www.tvc.texas.gov 

This episode highlights the Golden Triangle Polymers project, a new multi-billion dollar joint venture between Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem) and QatarEnergy being built in Orange, Texas. Heather Betancourth from Chevron Phillips Chemical reveals details about the project and its Local First initiative, which aims to prioritize hiring local talent and sourcing local vendors and suppliers. Heather highlights the partnership with Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas on the employment side through an online jobs portal and job fairs. Discover the overall economic impact the project will have on the region. For more information about the Golden Triangle Polymers Project and Local First visit https://www.goldentrianglepolymers.com/ and https://localfirst.setworks.org/.

In this episode, you'll get an inside look at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System. Tune in to hear details about CHRISTUS' teacher externships, and the range of healthcare professions beyond just doctors and nurses. Discover how the pandemic affected hospital staff and what CHRISTUS does to retain employees. Michelle Hammerly, Director of Education, and Jennifer Strope, Director of HR Strategy at CHRISTUS, reveal the massive growth, diverse opportunities, and technology advancements happening in Southeast Texas healthcare.

Two rising workforce development stars share their journey from Lamar University to the Southeast Texas Workforce Board. They also reveal their top strategies for choosing a career path, maximizing your college experience, and launching a rewarding career in workforce development. Tune in to hear from Alexis Miller, outreach liaison, and Caden Moran, Workforce and Labor Market Analyst, both of Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas. For more information on Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas visit https://setworks.org/  

Tune in for a conversation with Roy West, Mayor of Beaumont, as Mayor West shares his personal and professional journey and reveals insights about the future of workforce development in Beaumont. Mayor West shares some of the unique benefits of Beaumont, including its strategic location and proximity to nature. He also reveals how his vision for Beaumont extends beyond its geographic advantages, how the city can be a pivotal player in the global economy, and plans for community engagement and development. 

Stan Odenthal, Workforce Development Strategist with the Odenthal Group, joins the show to talk about the upcoming Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Industry Forums. Stan discusses the importance of the forums as an opportunity for employers to share their workforce needs and concerns and also hear updates from industry leaders on important topics affecting them. The forum schedule is as follows: Transportation on 10/31 at 1 p.m;.https://bit.ly/3YNf07l Healthcare on 10/10 at 1 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3OI2MbE Education on 10/17 at 9 a.m.: https://bit.ly/3P7NnTy  and Manufacturing on 10/24 at 1 p.m: https://bit.ly/44o8bdv    

ExxonMobil Beaumont Area Public & Government Affairs Advisor Andrew Ortiz joins the show to talk about the company's 409 Energy Scholars program. The two-week program introduces incoming Beaumont ISD seniors to the petrochemical industry and provides information about available careers at the Beaumont-area operation.  Participant Brian Godina, senior at West Brook Senior High School, also joins the podcast to talk about his experience. For more information about ExxonMobil visit https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/

Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) President Dr. Sidney Valentine joins the show to talk about the college's new Workforce and Allied Health Training Center and nursing program. Dr. Valentine also emphasizes the importance of blue-collar workers, whom he describes as “gold-collar,” to the ever-growing industrial sector of Southeast Texas. For more information about LIT, visit  www.lit.edu

Hear how Southeast Texas industry leaders created a local Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) chapter to enhance training and career options for students while building a pipeline of skilled workers to support the manufacturing industry. The panel of guests includes Stacey Nichols, Golden Triangle FAME president; Tony Davis, National Director, FAME USA and Dereck Cloeren, Operations Manager at Cloeren Incorporated. For more information visit https://fame-usa.com/fame-program-locations/texas-fame/golden-triangle/ 

In Part 2 of our discussion with Chris Kirkendall, the Hardin County Commissioner discusses labor and broadband needs, tips for transitioning veterans, and his vision for the county moving forward.

In Part 1 of Southeast Texas Works conversation with Hardin County Commissioner Chris Kirkendall, we discuss economic development, commerce, and how Silsbee ISD Career and Technical Education is helping prepare the workforce of the future for in-demand and promising career opportunities.

Dr. Janeal White from Southeast Texas Coalition for the Homeless joins the show to talk about the issue of homelessness in our area. Dr. White's organization, a community services division of the Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission, connects community organizations that provide services and aid for the homeless and collects local data on the homeless population, which can be a difficult task in itself. For more information visit https://www.setrpc.org/setch/  

Raquel Ochoa and Erika Banda Meza of the Hispanic Business Association of Southeast Texas join the show to talk about the needs and accomplishments of Hispanic businesses in our area. Their organization strives to uplift Spanish-speaking employers and entrepreneurs, educate them, and provide tools for growth. The two sisters also share their personal stories of how they became successful entrepreneurs. For more information, visit https://hbasetx.com/

Justin Cooper and Trey Berryman of the Southeast Texas Building and Construction Trades Council join the show to talk about apprenticeship programs in the skilled trades. With more than $54 billion in current projects and long-term investments, skilled workers are in-demand in Southeast Texas and apprenticeship programs can be the pathway to a rewarding career. For more information, visit https://www.stbctc.org/

Texas Department of Public Safety Sgts. Grant Belvin and Shana Clark join the show to talk about careers in law enforcement, including what it takes to become a Texas State Trooper. Forensic science and other careers at DPS are also discussed. For more information about careers at Texas DPS visit https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/human-resource-operations/texas-department-public-safety-careers

Texas Workforce Commission Economist William Lutz joins the show to give an economic overview and jobs forecast for the Southeast Texas area. Mr. Lutz also discusses the effect of COVID and the Southeast Texas industry mix on the unemployment rate and how youth can use labor market information to help them make a career choice. For more information about the Labor Market and Career Information from TWC visit https://lmci.state.tx.us/

In this episode of Southeast Texas Works! we're joined by a panel of three special guests from TotalEnergies, Medical Center of Southeast Texas, and the Port of Port Arthur. Their companies participated in the Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Teacher Externship Program in June 2022. The goal of the weeklong program is to educate teachers about in-demand jobs in these industries. For more information about the Teacher Externship program email business@setworks.org

LaCharlee Kelly, Welding Instructor at Beaumont Independent School District, joins the show to discuss women in welding, an industry that has historically been male-dominated. As a female welding instructor, Kelly serves as a role model for young women at BISD by encouraging them to consider the skilled trades as a career. Kelly also discusses pathways to become a welder, why she decided to enter the field, and her experience participating in Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Teacher Externship Program. 

Deborah Tomov, Executive Director of Family Services of Southeast Texas, joins the show to discuss how domestic abuse can act as a barrier to employment. Deborah discusses the services that her non-profit provides to combat the issue. For more information about FSSETX, visit https://westrengthenfamilies.org. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, call the 24-Hour Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-621-8882.

In Part 2 of Southeast Texas Works interview with Nakisha Burns, Public and Government Affairs Manager at ExxonMobil, Nakisha shares her path to success, which she describes as a “nontraditional journey.” Nakisha's powerful story details how she overcame poverty as a child growing up in Houston, the death of her mother, and how her education and faith helped her emerge as a key leader in the petrochemical industry.

Nakisha Burns, Public and Government Affairs Manager for ExxonMobil, joins the show to talk about the Beaumont refinery's BLADE expansion project and various community outreach efforts the company hosts including its 409 Energy Scholars and Introduce a Girl to Engineering programs as well as supporting Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Youth Career Expo and Teacher Externship initiatives. For more information visit https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/Locations/United-States/Beaumont-operations

Roxanne Acosta-Hellberg, Southeast Texas Workforce Development Board Chair and Vice President of Get Recovery, joins the show to talk about youth services – including our Youth Career Expo, Education Outreach Program, Teacher Externship Program and more. For more information visit https://youth.setworks.org/ 

Lamar University President Dr. Jaime Taylor joins the show to talk about his vision as the 16th president of LU. Dr. Taylor discusses plans to renovate the Mary & John Gray Library, the new vision for the university's CICE building, how the university intends to grow its nursing program to support an increased need for registered nurses in Southeast Texas, among other topics. For more information about LU visit www.lamar.edu

Orange County Judge John Gothia joins the show to talk about new construction projects and jobs in the county. Judge Gothia also discusses hurricane season and the levee project, the school bus driver shortage, and fun things to do in Orange County. For more Orange County news and events visit https://sliceoforangecountytx.com/

Beaumont ISD Superintendent Dr. Shannon Allen joins the show to talk about how BISD works to prepare Beaumont youth for college and careers in the workforce. She also discusses BISD's new maritime program, how she became a superintendent, how the school district dealt with COVID, and the Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Youth Career Expo, among other topics. For more information about Beaumont ISD, visit www.bmtisd.com 

Claire Jackson, Social Responsibility and Community Affairs Manager at Motiva and Industry of Southeast Texas (ISET) representative, talks about how ISET works with education and workforce partners to introduce petrochemical careers and pathways to area students. Claire also talks about the Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Youth Career Expo and ISET's Women in Industry initiative. For more information about the Youth Expo visit https://youth.setworks.org/

Beaumont Mayor Robin Mouton joins the show to talk about city development along the Neches River and her vision for downtown to become the Crown Jewel of Southeast Texas and a magnet for attracting new residents. She also discusses recreational improvements in the city and her grandmother's impact on her life. website: https://beaumonttexas.gov/