Podcasts about Workforce development

Send us a textSEMI's flagship event, SEMICON West, is moving to Phoenix, Arizona this October 7-9, 2025, after 35 years in San Francisco, coinciding with the region's semiconductor manufacturing boom and $200 billion in announced investments. In this episode, Françoise speaks with SEMI Americas president, Joe Stockunas, who shares reasons for the move and what attendees can expect to experience. This includes: • Move driven by need to refresh the event and bring it closer to industry growth• New October timing based on attendee feedback to avoid disrupting July holidays• CEO Summit featuring keynotes from Arizona Governor Hobbs, TSMC, NVIDIA, and Intel• Exhibition floor expanding to over 1,500 booths (50% increase from last year)• Technical tracks focused on advanced packaging, AI, cybersecurity, and workforce development• Street fair networking event Tuesday evening on 3rd Street• Student attendance expected to jump from 700 to 7,000 thanks to proximity to Arizona's educational institutions• Special SemiQuest exhibit at Arizona Science Museum running September through year-end• Global Semicon events continue growing, with Semicon India doubling to 1,000 boothsFor registration and complete program information, visit semiconwest.org or download the event app to navigate the show and build your agenda.SEMIA global association, SEMI represents the entire electronics manufacturing and design supply chain. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showBecome a sustaining member! Like what you hear? Follow us on LinkedIn and TwitterInterested in reaching a qualified audience of microelectronics industry decision-makers? Invest in host-read advertisements, and promote your company in upcoming episodes. Contact Françoise von Trapp to learn more. Interested in becoming a sponsor of the 3D InCites Podcast? Check out our 2024 Media Kit. Learn more about the 3D InCites Community and how you can become more involved.

Dr. Nikia Grayson, nurse midwife, family nurse practitioner, and anthropologist, joins us to share how she's helping reclaim and restore Black midwifery in the South. As Chief Clinical Officer at CHOICES Center for Reproductive Health in Memphis, TN, Dr. Grayson has led groundbreaking efforts to open Memphis' first and only birth center, launch the nation's first Black Midwifery Fellowship, and provide full-spectrum, justice-centered reproductive care. In this episode, Dr. Grayson reflects on the challenges of dismantling systemic racism in health care, the impact of the Dobbs decision on abortion access in the South, and the importance of investing in doulas, midwives, and community-based care. Dr. Grayson also offers advice for birth workers on building new systems rooted in justice, joy, and liberation. Content note: Discussion of infant mortality disparities as well as difficulties in accessing abortion care post-Dobbs decision. (02:33) The Vision Behind CHOICES (04:44) Obstetric Racism and Health Care Barriers in Memphis (07:21) Building Memphis' First Birth Center (10:34) A Calling to Midwifery and Restoring Black Traditions (13:41) Early Work in Home Birth and Community Care (15:19) Growing a Midwifery Team in Memphis (17:57) Launching the Black Midwifery Fellowship (20:11) Pivoting Care After the Dobbs Decision (24:26) Sustaining Joy and Practicing Self-Care in Justice Work (30:51) Partnering with Doulas and Growing Community Support (34:27) Investing in Workforce Development and Training (35:41) Advice for Birth Workers: Build Boldly, Do It Afraid   Resources Learn more about CHOICES: www.yourchoices.org | @yourchoicesclinics Explore the Black Midwifery Fellowship: www.yourchoices.org/fellowship-for-black-midwives   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

RAY OF HOPE WAYNE APPL TRT: 16:53 SPECTRUM CHARTER GRANT FOR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Jenn talked to Goodwill about their mission, Michael Bradshaw, Director of Workforce Development, Susie Skeens, Director of Supportive HousingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Adrian Veliz, Director of Workforce Development at The RightWay Foundation, shares his powerful journey of turning pain into power. In this episode, he opens up about resilience, hope, and how he's inspiring transition-age foster youth to build brighter futures.  

When the agtech is not working in the field, we can be quick to search for answers in the product itself. But sometimes, the solution is not there. That's because it's not a technical problem, but rather a social systems challenge.Kevin Boyle is the Director of Organizational and Workforce Development at the Equitable Food Initiative (EFI). He argues that a key component of the farming and food system is often overlooked; and that's the people who work on the ground. Farm workers can be seen as low-skilled, with little more to offer than the set tasks they perform. However, Kevin is seeking to change this approach, to better recognize the knowledge these workers have, and to create recognizable career paths for them.Kevin also believes that focusing on the workforce will ultimately benefit the development and adoption of agtech. He spent much of his career in telecommunication tech, where he helped integrate the new digital technologies of the 1990s into the system, including the workers.Sarah and Kevin discuss:·  Kevin's unique career background, from growing up on a farm, to working in telecommunications tech, and consulting across Europe and the United States.·  How the perception of farm workers as ‘tools' rather than humans with skills, knowledge, and desires has hindered tech adoption.·  How to better recognize the skills and knowledge of farm workers, to build high performance farming businesses·  How applied university research can be used to test a product in the broader system before it goes to market.Useful links:·  Can robotics solve the farm labor problem? With Connie Bowen and Sophie Thorel·  How policy hamstrings agtech in California - Walt Duflock 

Summary In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise and Rick Kiernan with Convergent Nonprofit Solutions discuss the evolving landscape of funding for economic development organizations. They explore the shift from traditional funding methods to a focus on workforce development, housing, placemaking, and childcare. Rick shares insights from his extensive experience in fundraising and highlights the importance of feasibility studies in understanding community needs. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of having a well-structured plan to attract funding and support for various initiatives that enhance community appeal and address workforce challenges. Takeaways Economic development funding has evolved significantly over the years. Workforce development is now the primary focus for economic development organizations. Feasibility studies provide critical insights into community needs. Housing shortages are a major barrier to attracting talent. Placemaking is increasingly important for community attractiveness. Childcare availability directly impacts workforce participation. Community engagement is essential for successful fundraising campaigns. Economic development organizations must adapt to changing priorities. Collaboration with local stakeholders enhances fundraising efforts. A well-defined plan is crucial for securing funding and support.

Healthcare systems continue to face intense workforce challenges, with nursing at the center of concern. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is expected to grow 5% between 2024 and 2034—faster than the average growth across all jobs in the U.S. economy. While this growth reflects rising demand for healthcare services, especially among an aging population and patients managing chronic conditions, the greater challenge lies in workforce turnover. On average, more than 189,000 nursing positions will need to be filled each year to replace those leaving the profession due to retirements or career changes. Combined with post-pandemic burnout and competition from other sectors, these trends make workforce development, recruitment, and retention a critical priority for healthcare leaders across hospitals, outpatient centers, and home or residential care settings.How can healthcare leaders and academic partners work together to build a future-ready workforce that supports both patient care and long-term system stability?On this episode of I Don't Care by Dr. Kevin Stevenson, guest Geoffrey Roche, Senior Vice President for Healthcare Solutions at Risepoint, explores strategies for strengthening the pipeline of nurses, technologists, and other clinical roles. The conversation spans Roche's career in healthcare administration, academia, and EdTech, and highlights innovative models of workforce development from both the U.S. and abroad.Key Points from the Conversation…Early Engagement: Initiatives such as healthcare-focused high schools and apprenticeship programs can ignite interest before college and strengthen long-term retention.Breaking Barriers: Addressing waiting lists in clinical programs and offering paid roles for students creates a stronger path to licensure.Transformational Leadership: Healthcare systems need leaders invested in long-term workforce development, not transactional approaches focused only on immediate productivity.Geoffrey M. Roche is a national leader in healthcare workforce development, currently serving as Senior Vice President for Healthcare Solutions at Risepoint. He previously directed workforce strategy at Siemens Healthineers and held executive roles at Harrisburg University, Core Education, and Dignity Health Global Education, where he advanced health equity and built scalable education-to-workforce pipelines. Roche is also an adjunct professor and Forbes Business Council member, recognized for his expertise in leadership, healthcare innovation, and academic-industry collaboration.

This week we, together with CSCMP's CEO Mark Baxa, explore critical supply chain challenges, the transformative impact of AI, strategies for resilience and sustainability, and the importance of education and talent development for the future workforce.

In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I've got Ryan Rohrman, CEO of Rohrman Automotive, to explore the intersection of legacy, leadership, and innovation in the automotive industry. Ryan shares how he honors the 60+ year foundation laid by his grandfather while steering a multi-dealership organization toward growth and relevance. From creating memorable customer and employee experiences to embracing AI and technology without losing the human touch, Ryan discusses the principles that guide his team, including transparency, innovation, personal connection, and servant-mindedness. He also dives into the importance of change management, training, and gamification to keep employees engaged, reduce turnover, and foster a culture that's ready to adapt to new challenges. Listeners will gain insights into: Balancing legacy and modern leadership in family-owned dealerships Building a culture of human-first customer experience (CX) Integrating AI and automation while maintaining genuine human connections Training, gamification, and strategies for reducing turnover Preparing your team to embrace change and innovation Whether you're a dealership leader, automotive professional, or someone interested in effective leadership and customer experience, this conversation with Ryan Rohrman offers actionable strategies to drive relationships and deliver awesome experiences—every single time. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com | Jen Suzuki, President and Founder of eDealer Solutions, Inc. | Dealership Education | www.edealersolutions.com | Meet me!bit.ly/3J7011t  | Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Krista Johnson, Deputy Director for Workforce Development at Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). Let's start with the basics: what is adult education? Can you talk a little bit about the adult education programs the state offers and some of your community partners? What steps is LEO taking to ensure Michigan's education and training programs are aligned with the skills employers across the state are looking for?
 Can you share how the state's adult education programs are creating opportunities for Michiganders seeking rewarding jobs and for businesses seeking a strong pipeline of talent?
 How can Michigan residents get information about adult education resources and opportunities in their communities?

Send us a text2025 saw WRN hold our first ever Women's festival in Derby.  Organised by local WRN members in Derbyshire and Staffordshire, it attracted a large audience from across the UK.  The Festival theme was Celebrating Grassroots Activism and we welcomed speakers and guests from England, Ireland , Scotland and Wales to give presentations on their local activities and tactics.  Mary Howden is a former Head of Education and Workforce Development at the Scottish Social Services, Director of WRN, and Coordinator for WRN Scotland   She talked about the journey taken by WRN Scotland to establish a grassroots women's movement. From small beginnings with 14 women working together to get their message out,  to how they grew their membership to cover the whole of Scotland.If you enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to hear more, go to womensrights.network/wrn-podcast to listen, download and subscribe to more of our episodes. And if you'd like to join our conversations, go to womensrights.network/join-wrn

This episode explores the widening treasury skills gap and how organizations can address it. Paul Galloway outlines the pressures of technology adoption, market complexity, and strategic demands, and what treasury professionals and hiring managers can do to keep up. From targeted hiring to “Semper Gumby” adaptability, learn how to build a future-ready team.  

In this episode, Jeff Utecht, Tricia Friedman, and Dr. Curt Merlau discuss the transformative role of AI and data literacy in education and employment. They explore how Pivot, an AI-powered tool, helps unemployed individuals find better job opportunities and training. The conversation emphasizes the importance of data literacy for educators and the potential of AI to personalize learning and improve educational outcomes. They also highlight real-world applications of data in education and the need for teachers to embrace AI responsibly to prepare students for the future. Connect with our guest on LinkedIN: Vice President @ Resultant | EdD, Organizational Leadership and Learning Former Educator, Administrator, and now Consultant. Interoperability Nerd. AI Enthusiast Connect with the work Dr. Curt does. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Pivot and AI in Employment 02:15The Importance of Data and AI Literacy 06:27AI's Role in Education and Personalized Learning 10:08The Power of Data in Student Success 12:42Emerging Pathways and Career Opportunities 19:36Preparing Teachers for an AI-Driven Future   Connect with Jeff and Tricia on LinkedIN   Jeff:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffutecht/     Tricia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tricia-friedman/  

Adrian Veliz, Director of Workforce Development at The RightWay Foundation, shares his powerful journey of turning pain into power. In this episode, he opens up about resilience, hope, and how he's inspiring transition-age foster youth to build brighter futures.

Discover how Apache Industrial is building the future workforce through hands-on training, leadership development, and community outreach. In this episode, Zeke Smith, Director of Leadership & Workforce Development at Apache Industrial, shares how apprenticeships open doors to rewarding careers, why safety is central to the industry, and how programs are empowering youth, women, and veterans to succeed in the trades. Explore the career pathways that turn hard work into opportunity and leadership in one of the nation's most vital industries. 

In this episode, Ann Wyatt interviews John Piller, a seasoned expert in automation and controls, who shares his journey from working in a corporate environment to starting his own consulting business. The conversation delves into the importance of workforce development, the role of Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) in supporting small manufacturers, and John's passion for teaching the next generation. Additionally, John discusses his involvement in a fundraising event for at-risk youth, highlighting the significance of community support and mentorship. In This Episode:-00:00: Introduction to John Piller and His Journey-02:38: The Importance of Teaching and Mentorship-05:21: Passion for Youth and Workforce Development-07:49: Real-World Applications in Education-10:30: Teaching Challenges and Successes-12:59: The Role of Engineering in Understanding Systems-15:44: Connecting Theory to Practice in Engineering-18:14: The Impact of Teaching on Future Generations-20:53: Understanding Complex Concepts Through Simple Analogies-22:55: The Importance of Manufacturing and MEPs-26:31: Data as the New Currency in Manufacturing-34:46: Community Engagement and Supporting At-Risk YouthMore About John Piller:John Piller is the founder of JPiller Design and Consulting, where he helps small and mid-sized manufacturers chart their path into the era of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0. With a career spanning industrial controls, advanced automation, and OT/IT integration, John combines deep technical expertise with executive-level strategy to guide organizations through digital transformation.Today, John is recognized as a fractional CTO and thought leader, helping executive teams turn complex technologies into practical, scalable solutions. His work emphasizes not just adopting new systems, but building the culture and strategy to make them sustainable. Check out the Over The Edge Fundraiser here. Learn more about John and connect with him here.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

Chris Holman welcomes back Carrie Rosingana, CEO, CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties. There are discussions at the federal level to change how workforce development is funded to the states. What are some of the ways that CAMW!'s current service model benefits businesses and workers? One of the higher-profile proposals in Washington is to convert nearly all of our workforce development funding into a block grant formula. What would that mean for program delivery to CAMW!'s customers, both on the employer side and the employee side? News came out last week that administration of certain workforce development programs would move from the Department of Education to the Department of Labor. Can you provide some detail on that and what it means for Michigan from your perspective? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Send us a textJoe April, Convergent Senior Partner, and Dr. John Rainone, President of Virginia's Mountain Gateway Community College, and a Convergent Senior Counsel join the host of the Develop This! podcast, Dennis Fraise, in this special episode, to discuss leveraging community colleges to address workforce needs. Joe shares his transformation, which was made possible through community college support, and John highlights the importance of entrepreneurial approaches, citing his college's $7.3 million renovation, which was funded by public-private partnerships. Both emphasize the need for flexible, short-term training programs to meet industry demands—both note trends like apprenticeships and regional collaborations. 

Kevin Barber, MD, speaks with Cynthia Matossian, MD, and Sara O'Connor, MD, MPH, about strategies to address workforce shortages and training gaps in ophthalmic care. Dr. Matossian outlines the American College of Eye Technicians and its technician training model to expand career awareness and technical competency, and Dr. O'Connor describes ACE Global's ophthalmic technician program in Honduras and a community health worker curriculum. Dr. Barber reviews distance surgical mentorship, a smartphone-to-microscope telementoring approach that supports ophthalmologists in low-resource settings as they transition to independent cataract surgery. Together, these initiatives illustrate a scalable, team-based pipeline to build capacity and reduce preventable blindness; related perspectives appear in CRST's June 2025 “Bridging the Gap” issue. Related reading: "A Workforce Solution to Expand Access to Eye Care" "Scaling Surgical Mentorship Across Borders"

After nearly two decades as the founder and CEO of Clapp Communications, an award-winning communications firm, Barb made the bold decision in 2019 to sell the company and dedicate herself to a deeper mission: creating career opportunities for those who need them most. Having grown up under difficult circumstances herself, Barb understands firsthand the power of access and support in changing lives. Since stepping into her role at DWD, Barb has transformed the nonprofit from concept to a full-scale national workforce development organization that has served over 6,000 Dwyer Scholars across five states since inception in 2021. Serving underserved individuals, DWD removes barriers to success by providing person-centered case management, need-based wraparound services—such as transportation, childcare, and housing support—free CNA and Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) training, and job placement support.

On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra is joined by Cordova High School student participants of SAFE's 2025 Youth Workforce Development program. Together they discuss their career goals and aspirations, the importance of financial literacy for Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and the impact of online influencers on young people's spending behaviors. They also provide valuable insights on how to prioritize savings and avoiding online spending traps. Tune in today, because investing in the personal and professional development of young adults in our community just makes Perfect Cents! Youth Workforce Development Marketing Ad (Instagram) To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

Send us a textIn this conversation, Dr. Keith "KC" Castille and Martin Foster explore profound themes of life, loss, and leadership. They reflect on personal experiences that shape their perspectives, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, the impact of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of workforce development. The discussion highlights the significance of embracing life after loss, celebrating achievements, and the role of AI in education. Ultimately, they underscore the necessity of being open about struggles and the power of connection in leadership. -Time Codes:04:13 "Seeking Meaningful Leadership"08:35 Inspired by Leadership and Vision10:43 "Integrating AI in Workforce Education"13:25 Adaptive Business Learning Solutions16:55 Leadership Through Empathetic Listening20:07 "Happiness Behind the Scenes"23:05 Turning Point: Life to God26:57 "Embracing Curiosity and Safety"31:41 "Shifting Perspective on Work Choices"34:52 "Inspiring Journeys at the Academy"38:45 "Unexpected Acts of Kindness"39:30 "Misunderstood Generosity"43:59 "Underdogs Triumph Against Odds"47:41 "Believe and Lift Others Up"51:12 Gratitude for Podcast Opportunity53:58 Guest Excitement on Show Invitation55:54 "Podcasting: My Source of Strength"Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You InsecureEpisode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of LeadershipEpisode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

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In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark dives into the intersection of education and workforce innovation with Kerry McKittrick, Co-Director of Harvard's Project on Workforce. Together, they explore the evolving job market in the AI era, discussing challenges like the "AI job apocalypse" and the importance of creating agile pathways to economic mobility. Kerry highlights the critical role of work-based learning, industry partnerships, and personalized career navigation to prepare learners for a complex and dynamic workforce. Tune in to hear about the future of work, education's response, and how regional and adaptive pathways can create equitable opportunities for all. Outline (00:00) Introduction: AI's Impact on Jobs (02:27) Pathways to Economic Mobility (04:12) Current Job Market Challenges (09:05) Education's Response to Workforce Changes (14:21) Governors' Role in Workforce Development (24:58) Conclusion and Future Work Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Kerry McKittrick | LinkedIn Bloomberg Philanthropies CTE Initiative Harvard Project on Workforce

In this episode of PBL Simplified, host Ryan Steuer interviews Vanessa Myers, Senior Director of Education and Workforce Development at Interplay Learning. They discuss the transformative power of Project Based Learning (PBL) in vocational education, particularly through the integration of virtual reality (VR) technology. Vanessa shares personal stories that highlight the importance of hands-on learning and how VR can enhance vocational training. The conversation also addresses the challenges of implementing VR in schools, the future of education technology, and the critical need for preparing students for employability in various trades. Takeaways Project-based learning is essential for engaging students in vocational education. Hands-on learning experiences can significantly boost student confidence and success. Virtual reality can replicate real-world scenarios for vocational training. Safety and cost-effectiveness are key considerations for implementing VR in schools. Success stories highlight the effectiveness of VR in enhancing learning outcomes. Employability skills are increasingly important in education. Integrating technology into the curriculum can improve student engagement. Collaboration with industry partners can enhance vocational training programs. Educators should focus on aligning technology with learning outcomes. Continuous practice and exposure to real-world skills are crucial for student success. Resources and links: interplaylearning.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-myers-5066879/

Chris Holman welcomes back Stephanie Beckhorn, Director, Employment & Training, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) Topic: New Report: Michigan is #3 in the Nation for Helping Residents Get Employed! Can you tell us a little bit about LEO's Office of Employment and Training? The Office of Employment & Training released its annual report this week. What are some of the key findings from that report? What are the key programs making the findings in this report possible? Just last year, LEO unveiled the state's first-ever Michigan Statewide Workforce Plan. How does the work of the Office of Employment and Training support this plan? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Michigan ranks #1 nationally in adult credential attainment and serves more job seekers than any other Midwest state New report highlights Michigan's work to grow businesses, support talent and strengthen communities LANSING, Mich. — Michigan helps more people access employment services than any other state in the Midwest, leads the nation in adult credential attainment and ranks #3 nationally for helping adults get jobs. These are among the highlights in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's (LEO) 2024 Employment and Training Annual Report which was released today. The report shows how workforce programs across the state are supporting business growth, strengthening communities and helping attract and keep talent to fill in-demand jobs. LEO's Office of Employment and Training works closely with Adult Education providers, Community Rehabilitation Programs, the Michigan Works! network and other partners to offer support and services to individuals and businesses across the state. Their Bureau of Services for Blind Persons, Michigan Rehabilitation Services and Workforce Development served more than 346,000 individuals and 7,928 Michigan businesses in 2024. “Building a strong, inclusive economy starts with ensuring every Michigander has access to opportunity,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “That's why the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons, Michigan Rehabilitation Services and Workforce Development are so vital. Their collaborative efforts help break down barriers to employment and open doors for individuals of all abilities. Together, we're creating a workforce where everyone can contribute, succeed and thrive.” According to the report, nearly 200,000 participants in Employment and Training programs secured employment in 2024, with more than 84,000 individuals receiving employment-related training and about 27,700 earning industry-recognized credentials. “Our work within the Office of Employment and Training plays a critical role in delivering customized workforce solutions that help create brighter futures for all Michiganders, including individuals with disabilities,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, Deputy Director of LEO's Office of Employment and Training. “These efforts are helping Michiganders achieve financial security, empowering businesses to grow and strengthen communities across our state. But our work doesn't stop here. We remain committed to innovation and continuous improvement so everyone has the opportunity to succeed and make it in Michigan.” Helping Michiganders with Disabilities Achieve Success Bureau of Services for Blind Persons' accomplishments in 2024 include: 1,517 individuals served 1,079 Michiganders trained 625,607 audiobooks disseminated $8.4 million gross sales for Business Enterprise Program operators Michigan Rehabilitation Services develops customized workforce and training solutions for businesses and individuals with disabilities to engage and prepare for employment...

In this episode of Shelf Confidence, we explore GIANT's workforce development partnership with Central Penn College. Now in its 5th year and 6th cohort, this custom 5-week, 18-credit program is equipping GIANT's managers with the skills to lead. We're joined by Curtis Voelker (Central Penn), Dr. Jack Babinchak (Instructor), Anthony Amadure (GIANT), and a program alum to discuss the program's impact, the evolution of a new 6-hour store manager course, and how other businesses can benefit. If you enjoy Shelf Confidence, please subscribe and share. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of People-First Builders, host Fletcher Wimbush sits down with Bo Jones, President of True Built Construction and CEO of CareerPathway.com, to explore a groundbreaking approach to workforce development in the skilled trades. With over 25 years of experience, Bo shares how his deep frustration with traditional hiring methods—and the dwindling talent pipeline in Nebraska—led him to launch an innovative platform that connects students to careers before graduation. Bo explains how CareerPathway.com is helping students discover meaningful work in industries like construction, healthcare, and technology through real-time multimedia content created by employers themselves. He walks us through the platform's features, the impact it's already making in 34 states, and how it's revolutionizing how employers reach and inspire the next generation of workers. Whether you're a business leader, educator, or parent, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about how we prepare young people for life after high school—and how industry must step up to solve the skilled labor shortage. What You'll Learn: Why traditional outreach efforts to young workers often fall short How True Built Construction mentored students by building homes—and what challenges remained The origin story and mission of CareerPathway.com How the platform bridges the gap between students, educators, and employers The game-changing potential of reaching students before they graduate Bo breaks down how the platform works, including: How students explore careers through bite-sized videos, photo posts, and real-world content from employers. How teachers and counselors use the platform to guide career conversations with personalized insights. How businesses can build employer brand visibility while connecting directly with interested, pre-qualified young talent. Why the education system alone cannot (and shouldn't be expected to) deliver individualized career exploration at scale—and how CareerPathway.com fills the gap. Whether you're an employer frustrated with the broken hiring pipeline, an educator looking for real-world career exploration tools, or a parent trying to help your child find their path, this episode delivers inspiration, clarity, and a vision for what's possible when industry steps up.

In part three of the Workforce Special Series, host Robert Finnegan, Director of Education and Workforce Development at AFFOA, focuses on how companies can leverage traditional Career and Technical Education (CTE) to develop a talent pipeline for next-generation employees. The discussion covers the historic textiles city of Fall River MA, and how community, school, and industry come together to strengthen career pathways in fashion, design, and technology. Our guests are Judi Vigna, CEO of Specialized Career Guidance, and Patti Rego, Executive Director of Viva Fall River. 

In this third and final installment of our "Art of New Jersey" series, we consider the impact of Netflix and Lionsgate's $1+ billion studio investments and their potential to transform New Jersey into the "Hollywood of the East." Guests Jen Becker from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, film producer and state film commissioner Carol Cuddy, and Tom Hall from Montclair Film discuss how these major entertainment industry developments could create thousands of jobs and generate billions in economic impact. The conversation explores the broader workforce development opportunities the studio investments present for communities across the Garden State.Related links:NJ Film & Digital Media Tax Credit Program: ttps://www.njeda.gov/film/NJ Film Works Grant Program: https://www.njeda.gov/new-jersey-film-works-grant-program/NJ Film Ready Program: https://www.nj.gov/njfilm/filmready-nj.shtmlNJ Film Commission: https://www.nj.gov/njfilm/NJ-411 Production Services Directory: h=ttps://www.nj.gov/njfilm/production-psd.shtmlMontclair Film Education & Training programs: https://montclairfilm.org/education/

Summary In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise interviews Clint O'Neill, the executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. They discuss the importance of economic development in small towns, highlighting success stories of major companies like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and Murphy USA. Clint shares insights on the role of the timber and agriculture industries in Arkansas's economy, the state's competitive advantages, and the importance of workforce development. The conversation emphasizes the need for strong relationships and community support in fostering economic growth and attracting new businesses. Takeaways Clint O'Neill leads the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. Economic development is achievable in small towns. Bentonville's growth is tied to Walmart's success. Murphy USA provides free college for local students. Arkansas is a leading rice producer in the US. Strong relationships are key to economic development success. Arkansas has a low cost of living and high quality of life. Workforce development is crucial for future economic growth. The timber industry is a significant economic driver in Arkansas. Arkansas is experiencing population growth and economic success.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny interview James Stout and Shane Sawyer from the Iowa Department of Workforce Development, focusing on Home Base Iowa, a veteran relocation incentive program.The four discuss the benefits of veteran relocation to Iowa and Clinton County, the associated incentives, the application process, and upcoming Veteran Success Fairs.Contact James and Shane for more information about the 2025 Veteran Success Fairs!james.stout@iwd.iowa.govshane.sawyer@iwd.iowa.govHome Base Iowa is seamlessly integrated into IowaWORKS, the state's largest jobs bank and a resource for finding careers across the state. Veterans receive personalized career assistance, and Iowa employers gain access to powerful tools and a database of qualified veteran resumes.Clinton County, Iowa, has been a Home Base Iowa County since 2016. As one of the early adopters, Clinton County has helped nearly 70 veterans, supporting the workforce needs of our region's largest employers.For more details about Home Base Iowa and the local incentives available, feel free to contact Andy Sokolovich at 563-242-5702 or email asokolovich@growclinton.com.To find out how you can promote your member business or organization on the podcast, contact the Grow Clinton office at 563.242.5702 or visit us online at www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton's mission is to promote business growth, build community, and support the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.

In this week's episode, BPC Senior Advisor Theresa Cardinal Brown sits down with Amanda Bergson-Shilcock, senior fellow at the National Skills Coalition, to discuss the importance of our workforce development system, the urgent need to address skills gaps and the role that immigrants can play in meeting them. It's a workforce-centric episode on This Week in Immigration.    National Skills Coalition: https://nationalskillscoalition.org/   Amanda Bergson-Shilcock: https://nationalskillscoalition.org/about-us/staff/amanda-bergson-shilcock/   Building a Stronger Workforce: Why Care Workers need Skills,Training, Career Pathways and Support Services: https://nationalskillscoalition.org/resource/publications/building-a-stronger-workforce/   

Send us a textIn this episode of the Grow Clinton Podcast, Andy and Jenny sit down with Stacy Borgeson, Grow Clinton's Director of Workforce Development & Talent Attraction, to discuss the region's workforce challenges, in-demand skill sets, available programs, and resources for workforce and talent attraction.Stacy highlights the newly launched Process Technology Program through Clinton Community College, Home Base Iowa, and the Clinton County Community Student Loan Assistance Program.We also discuss the services available to our members that help identify quality job candidates through Grow Clinton's Career Awareness Program. Job seekers can upload their resumes and contact information via the Grow Clinton website at www.GrowClinton.com, and their information will be shared with dozens of regional employers.Workforce development and talent attraction are key priorities in the Grow Clinton strategic plan. Without immediate access to a trained workforce, many regional employers will struggle to meet market demands. Therefore, Grow Clinton has built strong relationships with statewide leadership in Iowa and Illinois to develop cost-effective training opportunities that prepare individuals for careers in our area.Grow Clinton also engages students in the K-12 educational system by organizing facility tours, inviting employers for speaking engagements, and connecting young professionals with hiring managers interested in supporting work-based learning, internships, and apprenticeships.For more information on workforce development and talent attraction, please get in touch with Stacy Borgeson at sborgesongrowclinton.com.To learn how you can promote your member business or organization on the podcast, feel free to contact the Grow Clinton office at 563.242.5702 or visit us online at www.GrowClinton.com.Grow Clinton's mission is to encourage business growth, foster community, and advocate for the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.

As the electric vehicle market accelerates, the reliability of the charging infrastructure becomes increasingly vital. Chargers that are down or malfunctioning can hinder adoption and erode consumer confidence. But who ensures these chargers stay up and running? This episode of Reliability Matters dives into that very topic with a trailblazer in the EV service space. Our guest is Kameale Terry, cofounder and CEO of ChargerHelp!, a company revolutionizing how we think about EV charger maintenance and reliability.  Under her leadership, ChargerHelp! has pioneered Reliability as a Service, developed a highly trained and diverse technician workforce, and shaped industry policies aimed at improving charger uptime. Terry's journey is as inspiring as it is innovative, leading a national movement for a more reliable and equitable EV charging network. With backgrounds in workforce development, clean tech, and digital operations, she's uniquely positioned to tackle the challenges facing this growing industry. In this episode, we'll explore the common causes of EV charger failures, the role data plays in predictive maintenance, the impact of new regulations like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) standards, and how ChargerHelp! is creating pathways into the clean energy economy for workers from all walks of life. If you've ever wondered how reliability translates to the EV world, or how technology and workforce innovation go hand in hand, you won't want to miss this conversation. Chapters: 00:00:00 Revolutionizing EV Charger Reliability with Charger Help 00:02:14 Meet Camille Terry, Entrepreneur and Innovator 00:04:15 Starting ChargerHelp: A Journey from EV Connect to Entrepreneurship 00:06:16 The Impact of Pollution on EV Adoption 00:08:37 Understanding Reliability as a Service Model 00:10:35 Benefits of Reliability as a Service Model 00:12:40 Optimizing Asset Performance with Data Insights 00:14:56 Common Causes of EV Charger Failures 00:16:50 Reducing Mean Time to Repair in Software 00:18:47 Evolution of Memory Cost and Data Collection 00:21:06 Challenges in EV Charger Reliability and Failures 00:23:28 Emerging Leaders in European EV Infrastructure 00:25:37 Workforce Development in EV Infrastructure 00:27:42 Impact of California's EV Charging Reliability Act 00:29:20 Tesla Charging Stations: Leading Reliability Standards 00:31:42 Automotive Firmware Failures: Responsibility and Transparency 00:34:32 Planning for Robust System Configurations 00:36:33 Future Trends in the EV Charging Industry 00:37:36 The Rise of Charger and Smart Engineering 00:39:26 The Rise of Slate EV and Building Great Electric Vehicles 00:41:25 Human Connection in Technology 00:43:24 Importance of Profitability in Business Strategy 00:45:20 The Role of Cash in Business Operations 00:47:26 Conclusion and Podcast Schedule  

The mining industry stands at a crossroads. With a rapidly aging workforce, persistent misconceptions, and the growing demand for innovation, the need to reshape how we attract, develop, and retain talent has never been more urgent. In this powerful panel edition of the Mining Minds Podcast, we bring together six influential leaders from across the industry to engage in an honest, forward-thinking discussion on the future of workforce development in mining. Featuring: Alexia Carver (University of Nevada Reno) – Metallurgical engineer student and student outreach advocate Liz Diaz (Hecla Nevada) – HR leader driving grassroots education and skilled trade pipelines Don Dwyer (Orla Mining Ltd.) – GM dedicated to leadership, development, and operational culture Nikita Grover (Kinross Nevada) – HR strategist redefining mining's brand and workforce engagement Linda Honey (Protected at Work) – Training and policy expert specializing in workplace safety, compliance, and psychological well-being Victor Ortiz (i80 Gold Corp) – Safety director with firsthand knowledge of ground-up growth Together, the panel explores how to redefine mining careers for the next generation, what meaningful development truly look like on site, why the industry must embrace storytelling and digital presence, and how to build workplace cultures that grow people—not just fill roles. Episode Sponsors:  Liebherr Mining JSR Fleet Performance Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Episode Chapters:  0:00 Introduction & Panel Overview 9:06 Challenges from the HR Lens 11:48 Younger Perspectives 18:53 Messaging and Industry Branding 22:51 Measuring Success 27:43 Tech Adoption & Employee Buy-In 31:53 From Haul Trucks to Leadership 40:17 Sparking Youth Interest 43:36 Outbound Community Engagement 49:18 Reaching All Ages with the Right Message 53:03 Innovation & Speaking Up 55:31 Prioritizing Mental Wellness 1:02:49 Upskilling Through Experience 1:10:59 Open Questions – Barriers & Bold Moves

Summary In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise is joined by Joe April with Convergent Nonprofit Solutions and Dr. John Rainone, President of Mountain Gateway Community College, to discuss the vital role of community colleges in workforce development. They share personal stories highlighting the transformative impact of community colleges, explore how these institutions are adopting entrepreneurial approaches to meet workforce needs, and discuss emerging trends in workforce development. The conversation also covers the importance of grants and public-private partnerships, the need for shared resources, and the challenges of collaboration among economic developers and educational institutions. The episode concludes with practical advice for economic developers on building relationships with community colleges.  Takeaways Community colleges significantly impact individual lives and workforce development. Personal stories highlight the transformative power of education. Entrepreneurial approaches are essential for community colleges to meet workforce needs. Emerging trends include a focus on virtual options and apprenticeships. Public-private partnerships are crucial for funding workforce initiatives. Shared resources among colleges can enhance program offerings. Collaboration can be challenging, but it is necessary for success. Economic developers should actively engage with community college leaders. Diversifying revenue streams is vital for sustainability. Community colleges are valuable partners in economic development

What if becoming a pilot wasn't a dream reserved for the few—but a real career path for young people in underserved communities? In this inspiring conversation, Dana Donati, CEO of Breaking Down Barriers.org, shares how their aviation nonprofit is rewriting the narrative on who gets to fly.Founded by former American Airlines CEO Doug Parker and his wife, Gwen, Breaking Down Barriers takes flight training and mentorship directly into Dallas communities where aviation has historically been out of reach. From first-grade classrooms to community colleges, Dana and her team spark interest in aviation careers early—well before the traditional fork-in-the-road moments of college or military service.Dana explains, “Becoming a pilot is expensive. So sometimes that automatically pushes out the group of people that have the skill, just don't have the financial means.” That's where Breaking Down Barriers steps in—with scholarships, mentorship, and ongoing support that go beyond one-time transactions. Students sign a promise on day one: not just to succeed, but to return and uplift others in their community.In a sector facing a massive talent gap, especially post-pandemic, this model isn't just feel-good—it's workforce development at its finest. Dana outlines how they rotate mentors every three months to give students exposure to multiple professionals and expand their aviation networks—replacing outdated “lifelong mentor” models with something more agile and sustainable.This conversation goes beyond aviation. It becomes a blueprint for how nonprofits can foster generational change by focusing on access, exposure, and reinvestment. From field trips to local airports to connecting aviation with brands kids already know—McDonald's, John Deere, Disney—Dana's team finds innovative ways to plant seeds of possibility.For nonprofits wrestling with how to reach and shape future professionals, Breaking Down Barriers offers more than a flight path—it offers a runway. 00:00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:01:37 What Breaking Down Barriers Does 00:02:39 Addressing the Pilot Shortage 00:04:08 Aviation Career Pathways Beyond the Military 00:06:27 Identifying and Removing Career Barriers 00:07:58 The Cost Barrier and Financial Support 00:08:32 The Power of Mentorship and Networking 00:10:17 Rotating Mentors to Build Aviation Networks 00:11:47 Strategic Partnerships and Fundraising 00:14:21 Students Pledging to Give Back 00:16:19 Dana's Personal Aviation Origin Story 00:20:24 Capturing and Sharing Student Success Stories 00:22:54 The Role of Workforce Development in Education 00:24:53 How to Inspire Young Students Toward Aviation  #TheNonprofitShow #AviationAccess #FutureWorkforce Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

In this episode, host Kevin Thompson and guest Steven Jarvis, CPA, discuss the complexities and frustrations of current retirement tax rules, focusing on the Roth IRA five-year rule, Social Security taxation, and the “widow's penalty.” They highlight how outdated IRS technology and convoluted regulations create unnecessary stress for retirees. The conversation blends personal stories, professional insights, and broader reflections on workforce development and education, ultimately calling for tax reform and modernization to make retirement planning simpler, fairer, and more effective for individuals navigating today's financial landscape.Stephen Jarvis' Athletic Background (00:00:51) The Roth IRA Five-Year Rule (00:06:41) Record Keeping and Tax Complexity (00:09:19)Social Security Taxation Formula (00:12:48) Behavioral Incentives in Tax Law (00:16:30) Higher Education and Workforce Development (00:20:31)Economic Value of College Degrees (00:23:33)Philosophy, Ethics, and Self-Presentation (00:26:19)The Widow's Tax Penalty (00:31:42) National Debt and Tax Policy Complexity (00:33:02) IRS Modernization and Administrative Complexity (00:36:31)Challenges of Government System Updates (00:37:45)Podcast Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks (00:39:00)NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icapLinkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFPHere: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brenda Johnson. CEO of Collaborative Training Company (CTC)

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brenda Johnson. CEO of Collaborative Training Company (CTC)

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brenda Johnson. CEO of Collaborative Training Company (CTC)

In this episode, Kevin sits down with Jennifer Kolb, Vice President of Workforce Development at MedCerts, to examine a growing question: What if college isn't the only path to a good career? They dive into how MedCerts is helping high school students land well-paying jobs in healthcare—no four-year degree required. From AI-powered training to employer-backed certifications, Jen shares how this new model is reshaping how students prepare for work, and why school systems—and employers—are paying attention. They also unpack the rise of career exploration in high school, how virtual learning is filling CTE gaps in rural communities, and why more hospitals are looking to students, not job boards, to solve their talent shortages. If the goal is employment—not just education—then maybe it's time we rethink the route entirely. This might be what you want to know. What You'll Learn 02:00 – How Jen's brother's welding career changed her view on success 04:00 – Why Gen Z is questioning the college-default mindset 07:00 – The TikTok effect: new ambitions, new paths 09:00 – Inside MedCerts: what it is, how it works, and who it helps 12:00 – How schools and employers partner to build career pathways 15:00 – Virtual healthcare training—with AI-powered patient simulations 20:00 – What students gain: faster job access and a foot in the door 24:00 – Jen's advice to teens unsure about their future Go Deeper with Jennifer Kolb Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kolb Explore MedCerts: https://medcerts.com Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child's education.

In this episode of Workforce 4.0, host Ann Wyatt speaks with Josh Ebert, Curriculum Development Manager at A3 Association for Advancing Automation. Ann and Josh go in depth about the evolving landscape of educational content and its impact on workforce development. They discuss, at length, the importance of on-demand learning, the shift in perceptions around career technical education, and the need for rapid updates in educational content to keep pace with industry changes. The conversation also touches on the skills gap, the dilemma of advanced degrees versus hands-on experience, and strategies for companies to attract and retain talent through internships and real-world experience. Whether you're pursuing a career in manufacturing, or a company eager to learn more about the real ROI of developing educational content for your business, this is a must listen episode. In This Episode:-00:00: Introduction to The Workforce 4.0 Podcast-00:30: Welcoming Josh Ebert, A3, To Workforce 4.0-08:14: An Intro To A3's Content Creation-16:15: The Call To Change Perceptions of Education-18:51: The Challenge of Recruiting Fresh Graduates-21:23: Adapting To Critical Workforce Needs Beyond Advanced Education-24:15: Navigating the Skills Gap in Manufacturing-27:02: In Manufacturing, Real Experience Matters Most-35:50: Connecting The Dots Between Future Generations And Businesses-37:16: Final Takeaway: Partnering With Companies To Invest In Our Youth-38:54: Final Thoughts And Point of Contact-39:53: Podcast OutroMore About Josh EbertJosh Ebert is the Curriculum Development Manager at the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), where he works to create practical, engaging training for today's rapidly evolving workforce. His unique career path—spanning media production, K–12 education, and digital workforce development—gives him a creative and well-rounded perspective on how people learn and adapt throughout their careers. Having navigated his own career transitions and picked up new skills along the way, Josh brings a personal understanding to the process of reskilling. At A3, he focuses on building accessible online programs that help employers and workers stay ahead of automation, AI, and other emerging technologies.The Future of Work (and this Episode) Is Brought To You By Secchi:Secchi is a revolutionary workforce engagement tool created for organizations to make data-driven frontline decisions in real-time. By measuring and combining multiple people-related lead indicators, Secchi provides in-the-moment visibility into individual frontline employee performance, team performance, engagement/turnover risks, and positive employee behaviors all while removing the traditional barriers of administrative burden on leaders. To learn more about Secchi, check them out here.

In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan welcomes back Brynn Cooksey from Air Doctors and HVAC U to discuss critical topics facing the HVAC industry today. Brynn brings his unique perspective as both a successful contractor in southeast Michigan and an industry educator who has made the transition to focusing primarily on workforce development and training. The conversation begins with a deep dive into indoor air quality (IAQ), where Brynn challenges the common industry approach of throwing products at problems without proper testing. He emphasizes that effective IAQ solutions start with comprehensive testing to identify specific issues like high particles, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or excessive carbon dioxide levels. Rather than relying on "magic bullet" products, Brynn advocates for a holistic approach that prioritizes ventilation strategies, source control, and proper filtration. He particularly stresses the importance of the "V" in HVAC, ventilation, which he believes is often overlooked in favor of flashier solutions. His company's protocol of testing on every customer visit, from first encounters to maintenance calls, has created a culture where technicians become comfortable discussing IAQ solutions based on actual data rather than assumptions. The discussion transitions into ethical sales practices, a topic that resonates strongly in an industry where pressure to sell can sometimes conflict with customer needs. Brynn defines unethical sales as pressuring customers into products that won't benefit them or failing to provide complete information about benefits and consequences. His approach centers on thorough customer surveys to understand actual problems and budget constraints, followed by tying specific solutions to identified issues. This methodology puts the customer in control of decisions while positioning the contractor as a trusted advisor rather than a high-pressure salesperson. Brynn argues that price alone doesn't determine ethics - rather, it's the intent behind recommendations and the transparency of communication that matters most. The final segment focuses on workforce development, an area where Brynn has found significant success. His company's registered apprenticeship program, developed through the Department of Labor, has become a competitive advantage in attracting talent while providing structured, in-house training. The program requires minimal cost beyond commitment to ethical treatment of apprentices and systematic tracking of their progress. Brynn's transition from contractor to educator demonstrates the growing need for comprehensive training programs that go beyond basic technical skills to include building science, customer service, and ethical business practices. His ongoing weekly training sessions focus on field trends and callback prevention, contributing to an impressive callback rate of less than 0.5%. Topics Covered Indoor Air Quality Testing and Assessment Using monitors like Air Advice for comprehensive IAQ evaluation Implementing testing protocols on every customer interaction Moving beyond product-focused solutions to holistic approaches Ventilation Strategies and Building Science The importance of mechanical ventilation and ERV systems Understanding the relationship between building envelope leakage and humidity issues Source control as the foundation of effective IAQ management Ethical Sales Practices Defining unethical sales and pressure tactics Customer survey techniques and solution-tying methodologies The concept of fiduciary duty in HVAC contracting Equipment Sizing and System Design The impact of oversized equipment on IAQ and comfort Proper load calculations and duct system design Static pressure testing and airflow optimization Workforce Development and Training Implementing registered apprenticeship programs Weekly training sessions focused on field trends and callback prevention Transitioning from contractor to educator and industry trainer Building Envelope and Duct System Integrity Air sealing strategies for improved humidity control The relationship between leaky envelopes and indoor air quality Duct modifications and system upgrades Customer Education and Professional Positioning Using testing data to support recommendations Overcoming price objections through professional credibility Building long-term customer relationships through transparency   Learn more about Brynn's work at hvactrain.com. You can also read his article in Forbes at https://www.forbes.com/sites/brynncooksey/2025/02/19/rescuing-children-from-traditional-post-k-12-school-paths/. Learn more about the GRIT Foundation at https://www.thegritfoundation.com/.   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool. Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 7th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karla Trotman. President and CEO of Electro Soft Incorporated, an electronics manufacturing and engineering firm. The discussion focused on breaking barriers for women and minority business owners in manufacturing and closing the racial wealth gap.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brenda Johnson. CEO of Collaborative Training Company (CTC)

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karla Trotman. President and CEO of Electro Soft Incorporated, an electronics manufacturing and engineering firm. The discussion focused on breaking barriers for women and minority business owners in manufacturing and closing the racial wealth gap.