Podcasts about workforce innovation

What happens when workforce innovation stops focusing on individuals alone—and starts supporting entire families? In this episode of Manager Minute, Carol Pankow sits down with Lucas Halverson and Kathy Davis of ServiceSource to explore Families Achieving Self-Sufficiency Together (FASST)—a Disability Innovation Fund initiative that's connecting VR, TANF, employers, and community partners in a powerful new way. You'll hear how FASST: ·       Tackles generational poverty through a family-centered employment model ·       Supports disconnected youth and adults with disabilities across multiple states ·       Complements VR services without duplicating them ·       Uses AI-powered job matching and strong employer partnerships ·       Creates real solutions during Order of Selection and funding constraints This conversation is a must-listen for VR leaders, program managers, and partners looking for scalable, practical models that expand impact without expanding cost.   Listen Here   Full Transcript:   {Music} Lucas: The big goal is to break the cycle of poverty. We want to create lasting self-sufficiency, reduce the need for benefits and things of that nature.   Kathy: The beauty of this project is that it was originally designed for six sites across multiple states.   Lucas: We don't intend as a program to supplant programs that already exist, but we do intend to supplement or fill the gaps that exist.   Kathy: We are one as part of this project, and you would not have to pay fee for service or contract us. We're already being paid through the grant.   Intro Voice: Manager Minute, brought to you by the Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center. Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host, Carol Pankow.   Carol: Welcome to the manager minute. In today's episode, we're diving into one of the exciting initiatives funded through the Rehab Services Administration's Disability Innovation Fund 21st Century Workforce Grants. And these grants were designed to spark new ideas and scalable strategies that help youth and adults with disabilities prepare for and succeed in today's rapidly changing world of work. From artificial intelligence and virtual reality to cross-system partnerships and new ways of engaging employers. These projects are testing innovative models that could reshape how we think about disability employment for the 21st century. And one of those projects, launched just this past year, is led by ServiceSource, and it's taking a unique approach to helping families move toward self-sufficiency and employment. And joining me today to talk about it are Lucas Halverson, project director, and Kathy Davis, one of the key leaders behind this groundbreaking effort. So how goes it, Lucas?   Lucas: Hey, good morning Carol. Everything's going very well. Thank you so much for inviting us to talk about our project today. We're extremely excited to be here to talk about our project Families Achieving Self-sufficiency Together. We also call it fasst with two S's. So thanks again for having us.   Carol: You bet. How about you, Kathy? How are you doing?   Kathy: I'm doing great, Carol, thanks so much for having us. We are definitely excited to speak with you about our grant, which is short for that Disability Innovation Fund.   Carol: Excellent. Yeah, I've had a lot of experience talking with other DIF grantees in like the C.D.E.F. We always give them the little alphabet soup label, but there have been different focuses each year that RSA had released the Disability Innovation Fund grant. So it's been really fun to catch up and see what things are happening. So let's dig in. So before we get into the details of your project, Lucas, could you tell us a little bit about your background and how you came to be involved in this work?   Lucas: Yeah, absolutely. So my entire professional career is related to helping others. That started as an employment development specialist right after my bachelor's degree, focusing on all things employment placement, support services, community based, competitive, integrated employment. I transitioned from that into helping individuals with more significant disabilities prepare for employment. I've done a little bit of group and individual substance abuse counseling, but largely the last 15 years or so, I've been in the world of vocational rehabilitation in a variety of roles, both on the public side and the private sector side, and was happy through those wonderful years to get my master's degree in rehab counseling and my certified rehabilitation counselor credential. So to present day, I've been with ServiceSorce for over ten years, and when the grant was awarded, I looked at it as an opportunity to still stay in the world that I love of helping people, but knew it would expand my skills and really looked at it as an opportunity to bring a pretty large proposal to life. And so here we are, fresh into the second year of our project and seeing all of that happen. So very exciting.   Carol: It's very cool. I love finding people's stories, like how you found your way into this world of work, because we all came in a long and winding road different ways, but make it in. And then once you're in, you're kind of hooked. It's hard to leave. So, Kathy, how about you? How did you come to be involved in this work?   Kathy: Well, same. I love people's stories about how they find their vocation. And I have also been serving individuals with disabilities for a very long time, well over 20 years. I started as a volunteer in high school with Easter Seals, and from there, I did volunteer work with therapeutic horseback riding. I eventually also went back to school and got my master's in rehab counseling and became a nonprofit community mental health counselor and a traumatic brain injury program manager. And because of my background in counseling and also a previous master's degree in economics, when the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act was being discussed,  and the emphasis changed to or included employers. My econ background and my master's rehab counseling background made me a little bit of a unicorn, and I was hired by a Blind services agency around 2012. And then I also did business relations for them. And then I was hired to start the first business relations program at one of the VR agencies. And really, my golden thread throughout all of my career has been starting new programs. No matter what role I've been in. I love new things, I love innovation, and so DIF has been a perfect fit for me. I'm also working on my doctorate degree, almost finished with that and doing a Pre-ETS dissertation. So I have a really strong interest in evaluation. And so evaluation actually brought me to this project. And I serve as an internal evaluator for it.   Carol: Wow, you are a unicorn. Let me say that is exciting. Very fun. Thanks for sharing that. So when you two first saw the grant announcement, what caught your attention and made you want to apply?   Lucas: Yeah. So this DIF grant cycle the F grant cycle was the first time nonprofit organizations were eligible to apply. So it was a unique opportunity for ServiceSource. And so our program development team recognized that our agency had the capacity to try to take this on, and also the expertise to successfully apply with a strong proposal, but then also administer and monitor the program successfully. So our organization, ServiceSource, is a leading service provider and employer for individuals with disabilities. So it made us well positioned to deliver impactful outcomes under this project. The DIF grant in general definitely aligns very closely with our mission and our vision and our values. And we have affiliated organizational model that we felt would provide a strategic advantage with this project. So it's allowing us to have a fairly large geographic reach. We have several teams across the country all working together on this project, and it also allows us to leverage partnerships and resources that have already been in existence across these teams and these affiliates to have the greatest impact that we can. And so really, the alignment and the capacity gave us confidence that we could do what this grant needed us to do. And so we're in that second year and really getting rocking and rolling now.   Carol: Yeah, I hadn't realized that ServiceSource had such a big footprint because I was familiar with the work ServiceSource did in Florida, and Tina down in Florida and working with the Florida General Agency. In fact, we did a podcast about that and that particular model, and I knew there were little fingers of that kind of had spread out, I believe, into a few different states, but I hadn't realized, like, really how expansive ServiceSource was. So that is an excellent point that it really positioned you well for this. Now your project family is achieving self-sufficiency together. As you said FASST with the two S's. So no, we don't have a typo. If they read the transcript later, we didn't have a spelling error. It is the FASST you really launched at the end of June. I know that first year is always a very big planning year and getting things ready. Can you give us a quick overview of what the initiative is about, and really what motivated your focus on families?   Lucas: Yeah, absolutely. Really the high level focus aims to help disconnected youth and disconnected adults with disabilities achieve competitive, integrated employment. In addition, you know, using early intervention workforce reintegration strategies to support long term success. That's where the whole self-sufficiency piece comes in, uniquely for our project. But overall, FASST is, as I mentioned, a multi-state initiative, and we want to empower disconnected adults and youth with disabilities. Our core focus is individuals that are eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or TANF. So that's part of our eligibility requirement. And the ultimate focus is to remove barriers to employment and to independence. And so we do that by connecting families to community partners such as vocational rehabilitation, training providers, employers. But we also have staff that assist the individuals we're serving, build those critical skills such as job readiness, financial capability. And we have a case manager component to the team. Each team has a case manager to help with that kind of wraparound, holistic approach, to try to knock down as many barriers as possible. The big goal is to break the cycle of poverty, looking at kind of that two generational approach. We want to create lasting self-sufficiency, reduce the need for benefits and things of that nature. So pretty big goals. But we have a solid team that I'm confident can hit those goals with us.   Kathy: So and related to goals, we really our project has three overall goals. And as Lucas mentioned, it is to connect disconnected adults to find and retain that competitive integrated employment. But I'll also add that we want to have at least one high quality indicator as part of that employment, and we're helping to support them to retain their employment for at least 90 days. But we're also tracking beyond 90 days. And that's one of the really exciting and fun parts of this project. Unlike vocational rehabilitation, where you'd see a closure at 90 days, we're able to support individuals for the remainder of the project if that's what it takes to help them maintain their employment. The second overarching goal that we have is for the youth, disconnected youth ages 14 to 24. Our goal is to help them gain work skills and then either enter employment or enter education and or complete education. And then finally, the third goal would be to build the system's capacity with all of our partners to sustain our model and be able to serve more TANF recipients.   Carol: I like your holistic approach that you guys have brought up. I know back in the day, as customers would come in the door, and I was working at State Services for the Blind in Minnesota. You're looking at employment, but it's hard to just talk employment right off the get go. If people don't have food or your housing is unstable or you have all the other issues, so you've got to kind of connect all the pieces together. Employment obviously is a very important piece of this, but it isn't the only piece. You got to have it all work together.   Lucas: You make a great point, because I realized I didn't touch on the motivation to focus on families as part of this, and it's largely what you just described. You know, we recognize that families are key support systems for the individuals that we're serving. Families strongly influence decisions about anything but including employment and training, career paths. And so our whole focus is trying to have an alignment to that. And again, with our case management, part of our staffing, looking at the barriers, making sure they're addressed to increase those chances of success, because just as you said, there's not transportation, there's not a job. If there's not a house over your head, there's not a job if you don't have food. So all caregiver responsibilities and so the family tie in is really looking at barriers that affect the family. So could be the parent could be a child. But we know how it impacts the household. It creates kind of that ripple effect. And so not addressing it holistically could be a key piece missing. And so kind of the core motivation I guess to capitalize on that is to increase skills, of course, relating to employment, but also to again try to reduce the reliance on benefits as part of that. So knocking down barriers, helping go to work, reducing that need. And one of the key points with our project is as things are evolving, it does align with some of the current different federal agency initiatives. So, for example, children and families is emphasizing employment as a pathway to self-sufficiency. So that's very close to what we're looking at. And another example is Health and Human Services. They're looking at employment and family as the foundation of economic and social well-being. So our project really kind of just fits and plugs into that, because that is what our goal is with the larger focus. But I do think the holistic piece is extremely valuable for this project and will continue to be.   Carol: Yeah, you guys are definitely ahead of the curve because when I saw that that you guys had picked TANF, you know, at first I'm like, well that's interesting. Like how did you come to that? You know, to decide you were going to focus on those folks eligible for TANF and kind of make that the centerpiece?   Lucas: Yeah. So the program development folks that really dug into the proposal, part of the application process did a lot of research and found that largely there was a disconnect. There are a lot of folks that are eligible for TANF or receiving TANF that were appropriate for other agencies, such as vocational rehab, just as one example. But the tie in often wasn't there. It wasn't happening. And so, as Kathy mentioned, one of our goals is to hopefully have some better pipelines for that. So for folks and entities that are naturally working with individuals with TANF to understanding no important programs such as vocational rehab exist and what that looks like and what the scope is and what they can help with. So it just kind of was a noticed need and kind of became one of the key parts of, of this proposal when it was getting all put together.   Carol: I think that's brilliant because you always look at kind of VR can be the best kept secret. People say that all the time, and even though it seems like it would be apparent, like, why wouldn't you, you know, get connected with VR and you're in this program. People don't know that. And it's not necessary that the staff may be working in TANF, even know about VR or what's going on. We don't always do the best job at connecting with all the different partners and other folk out there.   Lucas: Another part of that decision to again, ServiceSource operating many programs across the country. There are a couple TANF specific programs that ServiceSource operated for many years, one being in Virginia that partners with the Virginia Department of Social Services, and then another unrelated program in Denver in Colorado. So there's already some knowledge base of that in addition to the research they all did. So it helped us kind of align with one of our corporate strategic goals of expansion and wanting to increase our support to individuals that are eligible for TANF. And so it kind of checked a, checked a lot of mini boxes, both there being a need and interest from our company with our goal of expanding and serving, you know, additional individuals. So it kind of presented just almost a natural opportunity, I guess, as it was all coming together. And I think it gives, you know, a pretty solid opportunity to try to interrupt the generational poverty that exists within families.   Carol: Well, that's where the magic happens. There's nothing better than having a project that fits with your own corporate mission. You know, the stars are aligned, things all sync up. It's not like you're having to kind of fit round, peg in a square hole or whatever, the square peg in a round hole, because it's all aligned really well. Now, I understand you recently received approval to expand your focus to include disconnected youth such as those in foster care, the justice system. How does that change the picture of your work going forward?   Lucas: Yeah, so kind of a really cool example. So with the DIF grants, one of the key focuses on being innovative and being flexible in changing with what you're finding during your project. And so very early on, not long after we launched the project and began some large increased efforts with outreach almost immediately, there were a handful of situations that involve youth that met the larger definition of disconnected, but didn't quite meet our project eligibility of being in a household that had a parent or guardian eligible for TANF benefits. And so we originally had intended to focus on those youth later in the project. But we talked about it and we did not want to exclude individuals. We knew we had the expertise and interest to serve, and we certainly did not want to risk coming back in the months or years ahead trying to find them. You know, it's kind of like the hot potato. If you have youth that are interested, now is the time. And so we worked with our project officer from RSA and they were very supportive of us expanding our focus to the broader definition of disconnected youth a little bit sooner than we originally planned, of course, but so that expansion includes youth now that are in foster care, the justice system that are low income or don't have stable housing. And so they don't have to have that TANF tie in for, for that kind of subgroup, but still relates very directly to our mission of serving the disconnected youth and adults within the project.   Carol: Yeah, I like that. You recognize that, you know, and take advantage of that as you're seeing that. And that's kind of the beauty of these projects, because they do ebb and flow based on how things are rolling and what you write in a proposal. As everything comes to fruition, you realize different things and you're like, oh, you know, maybe we get to pivot or do something a little differently or whatever that may be, or make this addition and it just makes the project better. I love the flexibility that RSA has with the projects to allow that kind of expansion and changes as you're going along. So I understand you've got six teams working across six states under this shared framework. How does that structure work, and what have you learned so far about coordinating across all these different regions?   Lucas: Yeah, I'm proud and very happy to report that it's been working incredibly well so far. It's kind of a new experience for our organization as well because it's bringing together multiple affiliated teams, but working collectively on the same project at the same time with shared goals. So from the start, when Kathy and I were putting this all together, one of the elements that really wasn't negotiable was building a sense of community within our team. Since we're all working on the same grant, have the same expectations. We knew if everybody was working in their own silo, it would be, you know, highly unnecessary and really counterproductive to what we're wanting to do. So we spent a lot of time in the earlier stages and continue to with emphasizing cross team collaboration. It's really kind of the key driver to our success and our continued success. And so some of the efforts to make this team that's spread across the country feel like we're all sitting in the same office space together, is having weekly meetings. So Kathy and I lead a weekly meeting with all the grant funded staff, their supervisors, the executive directors for the different affiliates, other subject matter experts from our organization, and then different contractors as necessary that are on the project. And we focus on anything and everything relating to the project, so it could be updates, progress, best practices, things that seem to be going well, maybe things that we need to work a little better on any process reviews we need to do. So we go through just anything that's relevant each week, keeps that engagement there, keeps everybody, you know, interacting. And beyond that, we also knew that with having some external contractors on the project that we really needed that to be bought in from the staff as well. And so we had kick off meetings with each contractor, both with our large group and then with each individual team, really just to build rapport, clarify roles, responsibilities, expectations, how it was going to work, what the goals were, and just start those relationships strong as well. You know, there's so much going on when you launch a project that we didn't want our external folks not to feel a partner like our internal folks. And so that's been going remarkably well. And then lastly, the last comment I'll make on this is that we also recognize that because we have really three position types that are working directly with the individuals we're serving, again, spread out across the country. We really wanted them to feel together and not, again, not separate. And so each position has its own community of practice. They meet monthly, they share best practices. They discuss challenges, Brainstorm ideas. For example, case manager in Florida found a gem of a resource that's national. There's no reason our case manager in Utah should have to spend time finding that as well. They talk about it. They you know, hey, I found this. This is great. It might help each other. And so those meetings we've had a lot of positive response on and Kathy and I hop on, if they have a topic they want us to discuss or, you know, problem solve with them. And so we've really felt that's helped bridge that large geographic distance across the teams. And we're hoping that, you know, turns into high quality and impactful services for the folks we're serving efficiently, serving our individuals and not having multiple people having to spend the same time on the same need.   Kathy: Yeah, I'll add something here, too, from an evaluation perspective. You might be familiar that when you start a new program and it develops into a fully developed, successful project and program, and then you start sharing it nationally. Inevitably, someone will, from another state or another agency outside of your region will say, well, that could never work for us because we're, you know, we have these resources or we're serving this population. The beauty of this project is that it was originally designed for six sites across multiple states. And so our implementation really is across varying populations and community resources. And so this project has such strong potential for successful implementation across multiple states and contexts. So we're very excited that we're really documenting everything that we're doing. We'll have a toolkit when we complete the project, and we're really looking forward to sharing what we're doing and how to do it with others.   Carol: And that's a really important piece to RSA. It's one of the things you write to in the project, like how is this going to be sustained past the project ending? Like how can you then, you know, transfer this information to other folks and they can implement it. So I can see where that was very appealing to them as they're looking at evaluating the different proposals that shoot. Here's a group looking at six states. So you mentioned, Lucas, Utah and Florida. What are the other four states that you're in?   Lucas: Yeah. So we're  in Delaware, North Carolina and Virginia. And we're right now in the process of bringing on a team in Colorado. We have the approval. We're just doing the logistics of what it takes to bring them on. That's one of the ServiceSource teams that has an experienced TANF program. And so we looked at that as another opportunity to be able to already leverage existing relationships and expertise to just tie right into what we were already planning to do in the Colorado team was just a little bit newer to ServiceSource, so they weren't part of the original proposal because they weren't here quite yet, but they now are. So we're extremely excited to have some additional folks joining the team and fitting right into what we're doing.   Carol: That's very cool. I know one of your partners. Our Ability, brings some cutting edge tech into the mix with AI powered job matching and training. How is that partnership helping you engage employers and job seekers in new ways?   Lucas: Yeah, so I think as we all know, the workforce development is just kind of an ever evolving landscape. So bringing Our Ability in, I'm extremely excited. John Robinson, the CEO from Our Ability, is part of our project. And at the core of our partnership is the innovative use of technology. They have a portal that's called Jobs Ability, that uses generative AI to connect job seekers to employment based on their interests, their skills, their expertise. So the system helps focus on the challenge of both unemployment but also underemployment among folks with disabilities. And their platform reaches 15,000 people with disabilities each month, which to me is pretty remarkable. That's a lot of folks consistently visiting and using their resources. And so the job matching will assist with better connections between the individuals were serving and getting into the work world, or trying to help upgrade or increase their employment in a system that's already proven, which, you know, helps with efficiency. They already know it works. And so by us leveraging their extensive employer network within the system, you know, we're really focused on fostering the employment opportunities that encourage and again, increase self-sufficiency.   Kathy: Just kind of expanding on what the Jobs Ability portal will mean for our customers. We'll be able to assist our job seekers with creating quality resumes that are keyed in on skills and experience, and there is an AI matching protocol that really matches their preferences and experiences and skills with job descriptions. It's a proprietary AI system, and so we're really excited about how participants are going to be able to be matched with jobs that actually match their skills. These are real jobs, competitive wages. As we said, we have high quality indicators for our outcomes, including wages. And if you think about it, this is a win for our participants as well as our employers, because they are going to be able to actually tap into qualified individuals with disabilities who meet the skills and experience that they are seeking.   Carol: I love AI. I know there's people I've done different podcasts around, different AI initiatives, and some people have different feelings about AI. I know there's kind of the you have the dark side of it, but this sounds super cool. I had not heard of this company. And about this proprietary software. I think that's very interesting and super smart of you to leverage something already out there, proven tested, can be used right away. Instead of you trying to like, go down the road of creating something and doing all of that, you don't need to waste, you know, time and energy in that when you've got something already done. Now, I know no large project like this starts without a few hurdles. What have been some of your biggest challenges so far, and how are you navigating maybe any kind of overlap with other services or agencies?   Kathy: As you said, VR is a well-kept secret. Many times that's what we hear. And so being experienced with that, when we started the project, we knew the outreach was going to be key. And so we did not wait to start our outreach. And Lucas and I developed a very thorough support system and toolkit for our staff to help them really be purposeful about their outreach. And as soon as people were hired, one of the first things they were told to do after they were up and running with knowledge about the project was to start outreach. And honestly, I think we've become an outreach machine and we're really keeping track of hundreds, hundreds of contacts across our six locations that we've made and also just really analyzing which of those resources are turning into pipelines of referrals. And so I think we're going to be learning a lot about that. One of the things that we also knew from the beginning is that we needed to tailor our outreach to the audience. So we have a library of outreach materials for students, for VR, for employers, for schools and parents. So there's many ways that we have. We also are created outreach in other languages. So we're definitely doing our best to reach as many people as we can about this project, and also equipping our staff to be able to speak about it, to really understand it and to be able to keep track of what we're doing to reach the populations that and stakeholders that we're going to serve.   Carol: Very cool.   Lucas: I was going to talk about the overlap with other agencies. It's been a very real discussion with our teams because, you know, how does FASST fit in with other programs that might do similar types of work. And so, you know, it's an ongoing discussion, teaching staff the significance of a comparable benefit, a very familiar term for our friends that have been in the VR world before. We don't intend as a program to supplant programs that already exist, but we do intend to supplement or fill the gaps that exist. Maybe we can move faster within a process to help somebody now that while they'll go through a process that takes a little bit longer, or maybe we can support someone a little bit longer, like Kathy said before, you know, if someone has a VR counselor and at 90 days, VR is comfortable with closing them, but maybe they might need a little bit more support. That might be a gap we can fill or a little bit more job coaching or financial literacy or something like that. And so we really focused on the design of our project to try to rapidly engage individuals as much as we can. We can serve someone start to finish on our own as a project. We don't have to have a built in external component, but we recognize the significance of resource connection, obviously. So both now and down the road for folks, if they're not receiving our support, knowing what resources exist, who can help with different things. And so it's still an ongoing process. So part of that outreach, Kathy mentioned hundreds and hundreds of outreach. We have to hit folks with the right info that makes sense to them. And so for as long as this project's going, I think it will always be a focal point for us to make sure that, you know, it's just clear what we do and what we don't do and what we can do to just try to support agencies and programs that do exist already, but then also knowing we can do a pretty good job on our own if we had to, so.   Carol: So let's hone in a little bit. You've talked a lot about outreach and have mentioned VR, but let's talk about those VR partnerships. How are your teams building relationships at the state and local level, and what can VR agencies gain from working with your project?   Lucas: Yeah, so the teams have done a really good job focusing on building relationships with vocational rehab. Again, trying to listen to what the needs are, what they're seeing as needs, and then versus, you know, collaboration of what we can offer teams that are working on having regular check ins set up. As with any agency, you know, some relationships have been a little more natural than others. But continuing to work together to try to establish those pipelines and that knowledge base of our existence, and then also that need for the individuals that are eligible for TANF. And so I always kind of say, you know, what's in it for VR agencies? And from my perspective, at least, our project can increase access to services and resources that could make service delivery easier or more efficient or more effective, which should then lead to increase or better outcomes. That's the goal. One of our objectives, as Kathy touched on, is to establish a system that connects. Connects the folks eligible for TANF and other entities such as vocational rehab. And so we're really continuing to focus on that and going to continue to ramp that up throughout the project. As the more, you know, line level relationships exist with the different offices and the different staff. And we've learned that adults with disabilities receiving TANF benefits are often best served by VR. As I mentioned, you know, programs can be complex sometimes, and so trying to smooth that out a little bit might be helpful for them. So we kind of see an additional potential to have connect VR teams with employers. We just talked about our ability and John and his team. They have very robust employer connections across the country. And so that'll be a regular interaction. So we might be able to connect some employers. Some of our interest is connecting educational partners as well. So looking at programs that can help foster people to get into good jobs and, you know, and other stakeholders of course, as well. So we kind of see it as a very big collaboration opportunity for our teams. And I really think at the end of the day, it really just to me looks at shared impact. So we work together. How can we all show that the good work everybody's doing is impactful and supporting the individuals that are coming to us that are needing that support?   Carol: It takes a village. It really does.   Lucas: It does. It takes a village. And we have one team, the state they're in recently. Just last month went on order of selection. And so we're using that as another opportunity to be a support because at least I know us in this podcast know when going on Order of Selection, the most significant disabilities have to be focused first. And so those individuals with less significant disabilities are typically the ones that have to wait. And we can serve them. So that team is working with their VR agency to make sure that's known, so that if they have folks going on the waiting list, that it might be a great opportunity to shift them to us and we can support them while they're on the waiting list. And whenever the time would come for that release, we can just catch up together and see where we're at.   Carol: That's a perfect example of really great collaboration, I love that. That I'm glad you mentioned that.   Kathy: Yeah, I just want to mention too, it's kind of tied into that. The reason we're seeing agencies start to use Order of Selection is because of increasing costs. This project would not cost BR to use our services because we're funded through the grant. So if you need an employment service provider, we are one as part of this project and you would not have to pay fee for service or contract us. We're already being paid through the grant, so it really helps with cost.   Carol: Yeah that's perfect. So as you guys look at the year ahead, what are your priorities and what does success look like for FASST as you continue to grow and refine your model?   Lucas: Many things, but I think largely continuing to strengthen the project. You know, we're still relatively new in implementation. And so we've learned a lot and will continue to learn a lot. And so we just really want to make sure we're maximizing the positive impact of the individuals we're serving. First of all, strengthen develop clear pathways. The end goal would be for this to be replicable at the end to scale our model effectively. And so I really think this second year, now that the team's together, everybody's getting comfortable with our process. This year is really where the car starts driving full speed, is how I feel. And I know Kathy, you have some ideas on quality and partnerships too, right?   Kathy: Definitely. As an internal evaluator, I'm looking at quality of this project. I want to make sure that we're ensuring fidelity to our model and the key components of our model and project, and we're going to be making adjustments throughout the next year, especially based on the needs of our participants and even our staff. And we're going to be capitalizing on our successes and sharing best practices across our teams through those communities of practice that Lucas talked about. We want to be consistent in implementing our project across the teams and our locations. So again, we have process documents and we're making sure that we're doing things similarly across our locations. And then we're definitely going to be collecting data. We've already started that process, and we want to make sure that we can demonstrate our outcomes so that we can inform our improvements and just really develop that replicable model in the end. And then as far as collaborations and partnerships go, we're working with our local partners to strengthen our connections and expand resources for our disconnected youth and adults with disabilities. So really looking forward to the next year being strengthening of our program and proving our model.   Carol: Well spoken like a true evaluator indeed, I love that. Oh, that is good stuff. So how could our listeners learn more about your work or connect with the FASST team? Do you have a website or something you could share with us.   Lucas: Yeah, so there's a few ways. So if someone's wanting to get connected to Kathy and I quick, we have an email. It's FASST, which is FASST@ServiceSource.org. Comes directly to Kathy and I, and we can answer questions if it's specific to a team, a referral, something like that. We get it out to the appropriate folks across the different teams. We do have a website. There's a lot of hyphens in it, but so largely it's ServiceSource.org/families-achieving-sufficiency-together. The hyphens had to be in there. So it's a little much if someone's trying to write it down. So I don't know if there's a way to have that posted somehow.   Carol: Yeah, we'll definitely put that in when we post the podcast. We can put that in the transcript too, to have the website linked right there.   Lucas: And then, also always like to put a plug in for the National Clearinghouse of Rehabilitation Training Materials, or NCRTM. They have a website for all DIF grantees that provides information about the project so you can see any of the grant cycles, what they're doing, where they're located, and of course, ours being one of them. So it has information and also ties folks back to our project site as well.   Carol: Well, Heather Servais will sure appreciate that shout out to them. They have great stuff. I sure appreciate you both very much. This is interesting. It'll be fun to catch up with you in a year or so and see, like now that you said you're kind of going full speed ahead to see where things land, I appreciate you.   Kathy: Thank you.   Lucas: Thank you so much.   {Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time. One minute at a time. Brought to you by the VRTAC. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.   Lucas: The contents of this discussion were developed under Grant H421F240144 from the US Department of Education Department. The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models or other activities described or discussed in this discussion. The contents of this discussion may contain examples of adaptations of, and links to, resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The. The department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness or completeness of this outside information. The content of this discussion does not necessarily represent the policy of the department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy, or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any federal agency. Edgar. 75.620.   Carol: Well, thank you both. I really appreciate you. Good job.   Kathy: Thanks Carol.   Lucas: Thank you so much.   Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time. One minute at a time. Brought to you by the VRTAC. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.

Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi, President of College of DuPage and Dr. Joe Cassidy, Founder of Innovation DuPage and the Vice President Workforce Innovation and Community Education at College of DuPage, join John Williams to talk about COD’s role in supporting workforce and economic development across the country. Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Siddiqi tell us how community […]

Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi, President of College of DuPage and Dr. Joe Cassidy, Founder of Innovation DuPage and the Vice President Workforce Innovation and Community Education at College of DuPage, join John Williams to talk about COD’s role in supporting workforce and economic development across the country. Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Siddiqi tell us how community […]

Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi, President of College of DuPage and Dr. Joe Cassidy, Founder of Innovation DuPage and the Vice President Workforce Innovation and Community Education at College of DuPage, join John Williams to talk about COD’s role in supporting workforce and economic development across the country. Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Siddiqi tell us how community […]

In this week's Monday News Drop, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan dive into one of healthcare's most persistent and pressing issues — the national nursing shortage. But this time, they go deeper than headlines to ask the hard question: Is it really a “trend,” or just a long-term problem we keep failing to solve?Bo and Luke trace the roots of the shortage through decades of reports and research, revealing that the so-called “hot topic” isn't new — it's been part of America's healthcare conversation for years. Together, they unpack why solutions haven't stuck and explore how operations, education, and compensation must all evolve to make a real difference.

The New Warehouse Podcast comes to you live from the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) conference in New Orleans, featuring a conversation with Glen Wegel, Vice President of Operations and IT at Kitchen Cabinet Distributors (KCD). Glen shares insights into KCD's rapid growth, how the company balances technology with operations, and his perspective on the future of the warehousing workforce. He also reflects on the unique role WERC plays as a space for idea-sharing and collaboration in the logistics industry.Support the show

Healthcare is at a critical turning point, where staffing pressures, shrinking reimbursements, and rising patient expectations are reshaping the future of healthcare. According to the AACN Nursing Workforce Fact Sheet, the federal government projects more than 203,000 new registered nurse positions will be created annually from 2021 to 2031, reflecting high demand from an aging population and increased healthcare needs. Yet the supply of nurses has not kept pace, making workforce shortages a defining challenge that is reshaping how hospitals recruit, retain, and support their clinical teams.So, what does it take to lead in healthcare during such a transformative era?In this episode of Highway to Health, host David Kemp sits down with Dr. Kevin Stevenson, a board-certified senior healthcare executive and host of the I Don't Care with Dr. Stevenson podcast. Dr. Stevenson draws on 36 years of experience across hospitals, health systems, consulting, pharmaceuticals, and physician networks. He shares insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare leadership, the complexities of hospital decision-making, and the non-negotiables for sustaining both patient care and staff well-being as the industry navigates the future of healthcare.Key Topics DiscussedThe evolution of healthcare business models: From “heads in beds” volume-driven care to efficiency, consumerism, and value-based strategies.The workforce crisis: Why nurses are burning out, how generational shifts affect staffing, and what health systems must do to rebuild the pipeline.Decision-making in hospitals: The complex interplay of vendors, administrators, clinicians, and community foundations in bringing new solutions to healthcare.Dr. Kevin Stevenson is a board-certified senior healthcare executive with more than three decades of leadership experience. He became one of the youngest hospital CEOs in his organization at age 35 and has since held roles across hospital administration, healthcare consulting, pharmaceutical distribution, and physician networks. He is also the host of I Don't Care with Dr. Stevenson, a podcast dedicated to candid conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing healthcare leaders. His career has been shaped by a dedication to patient care, workforce engagement, and advancing innovation in the industry.

Hattingh Basson and Werner Barnard, Senior Partners at Southwestern Talent, explain the unique career history that spawned the business, the professional services gap that they are filling and why it exists, why offshoring isn't really offshoring anymore, how the South African people create a world-class talent pool, overcoming start-up pain points, and why sometimes the low-tech solution is the winning one.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more at SouthwesternTalent.comSouthwestern TalentLearn more at SouthwesternConsulting.com/Coaching/StudentsSouthwestern Student Coaching

Paying for education is a major expense for many families, so I'm breaking down why 529 plans remain the preferred way to save for college, thanks to their tax advantages and flexible growth. I unpack updates, such as increased limits for K-12 tuition withdrawals, expanded uses for trade and vocational schools, and the new ability to roll funds into ABLE accounts for individuals with disabilities.  Plus, learn about the new Trump accounts, the option to roll over leftover 529 funds into your child's Roth IRA, and strategies to make the most of your education savings. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or simply curious about planning for future expenses, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a successful financial future for your family. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [00:00] The One Big Beautiful Bill Act and its impact. [03:00] The two types of 529 plans - prepaid tuition and savings plans. [04:06] Paying for K through 12 tuition and out of the 529 plan up to $20,000 per year. [04:31] Wider Usage for Post-Secondary Expenses. [06:20] 529 plan rollovers to ABLE accounts. [08:52] Comparison between TRUMP accounts and 529 plans. [09:33] 529 to Roth IRA conversions. Maximizing the Power of 529 Plans Education expenses, whether for college or trade school, are among the largest financial commitments families face. Recent changes under the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” have brought new flexibility and opportunities to the popular 529 savings plans, making it easier for parents, grandparents, and guardians to invest in the futures of their loved ones.  529 plans are tax-advantaged investment accounts designed to help families save for future education costs. Investment growth within the account is tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified education expenses. This compounding, tax-sheltered growth can make a huge difference over 15 to 18 years, leading up to a child's college enrollment. There are two main types of 529 plans: Prepaid Tuition Plans: Lock in today's tuition rates at specific colleges or state institutions to avoid the impact of future tuition increases, which often rise more than 5% per year. Savings Plans: Flexibly invest contributions with the ability to use funds at a wide range of educational institutions across the country. Key Legislative Updates in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act 1. Doubling K-12 Tuition Withdrawals Before the new legislation, families could withdraw up to $10,000 annually for K-12 tuition expenses. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act increases this limit to $20,000 per year starting January 1, 2026.  2. Expanding Qualified Expenses for K-12 The act now permits withdrawals for a broader range of K-12-related expenses, not just tuition. As of July 5th of this year, 529 account owners can use funds for: Books and instructional materials Online educational content Professional tutoring Standardized testing fees (e.g., SAT, ACT) Educational therapies for children with disabilities 3. Supporting Trade and Technical Education Not every rewarding career requires a four-year degree. The legislative updates now allow 529 withdrawals for accredited post-secondary programs like HVAC certifications, cosmetology, apprenticeships, or trade schools. These must be programs recognized by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, lead to a military credential, or carry federal/state government approval. This opens the door for practical, career-focused education to be funded just as efficiently as traditional college. Other Savings Options Also introduced under the act is the new “TRUMP account,” which may qualify children born between 2025 and 2028 for a $1,000 government contribution, with annual after-tax contributions up to $5,000. However, unlike a 529, a TRUMP account's assets are transferred directly to the child at age 18. Many may still prefer the flexibility and parental control of a 529, but the option to use both accounts and secure extra government funding adds another layer of planning potential. Perhaps one of the most exciting new features: If a 529 account has been open for at least 15 years, up to $35,000 can be rolled, subject to annual Roth IRA limits, into a Roth IRA in a child's name. This brilliant move allows any leftover college savings to start building long-term, tax-free retirement wealth for your child, giving them a valuable head start. For families supporting someone with a disability, the ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account remains a vital tool, now bolstered by the ability to make permanent rollovers from 529 accounts. Eligible for those whose disability began before age 46 (up from age 26 next year), ABLE accounts protect benefit eligibility while allowing more robust financial support for care, therapy, and independence. Planning ahead isn't just about numbers; it's about opening doors for the next generation. Resources Mentioned Retirement Readiness Review Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE  Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management  www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact   Subscribe to Retire With Ryan

00000199-29b0-d7e9-ab9d-7fb820fd0000https://www.wvik.org/podcast/good-morning-from-wvik-news/2025-09-08/illinois-gov-jb-pritzker-taps-moline-mayor-for-illinois-workforce-innovation-boardIllinois Gov. JB Pritzker taps Moline Mayor for Illinois Workforce Innova

In Episode 67, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier have a conversation with Donny Jones, Chief Workforce Officer at the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of West Alabama Works for a powerful conversation on collaboration, innovation, and breaking down barriers in workforce development.From expanding apprenticeship opportunities to helping justice-impacted individuals reenter the workforce, Donny dives into the programs and partnerships that are making a difference. The conversation also explores how wraparound services such as transportation, housing, and childcare are key to breaking barriers and supporting long-term success. Learn how innovative strategies are being used to overcome real-world workforce challenges to create sustainable impact.

This episode is brought to you by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. Food safety presents some of the industry's most significant challenges — the kind that keep plant operators up at night and require continuous innovation. Recent research from PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, examines food safety and sanitation as it relates to workforce challenges, technological advancement and equipment design. Jorge Izquierdo, vice president of market development at PMMI, discusses those insights in this Industry Perspective bonus episode of the Food For Thought podcast. Learn more about PMMI and Pack Expo Las Vegas.

In this episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson sits down with Katie Ralston Howe, Deputy Commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Commerce, to discuss the innovative programs and partnerships that are reshaping North Dakota's workforce.They cover public-private collaborations, efforts to retain talent, and how workforce development is being reimagined across the state.Learn about the challenges facing North Dakota's labor force and the bold strategies being used to close the talent gap.Learn more about North Dakota Workforce Development:https://www.commerce.nd.gov/workforceLearn more about Williston Economic Development:https://www.willistondevelopment.com

St. Charles Community College has a new Regional Workforce Innovation Center opening this Fall in Wentzville, and provides another option for recent high school grads, or people already in the workforce, looking to get certified in the trades. Lindy McGuire, Assistant Vice President of Student & Academic Affairs joined Heidi and Josh to talk about it.

Welcome back for Season 2! In our first episode, "EKCEPS Insights: Building the Future Workforce," we sit down with two incredible individuals who are making a real difference in Eastern Kentucky's job market: EKCEPS Workforce Development Coordinators, Theresa Noble and Vanessa Collier.Join us as Theresa and Vanessa pull back the curtain on the crucial role of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) in our state. They'll demystify what WIOA is all about and walk us through their day-to-day responsibilities in supporting community action agencies and WIOA programs.Thinking about a career change, looking for your first job, or seeking to upskill? Our guests will shine a light on the vast array of services available at Kentucky Career Centers – from resume building and interview coaching to vital supportive services like transportation and childcare assistance. Discover how they help job seekers navigate their options to identify truly rewarding and sustainable career paths, and learn about the high-demand industries in Kentucky where WIOA programs can give you a significant advantage.Prepare to be inspired by powerful success stories of individuals who have transformed their careers with the help of WIOA and the dedicated support of Theresa and Vanessa. We'll also hear what they find most rewarding about their vital work.This episode isn't just for job seekers! Theresa and Vanessa share their best advice for anyone looking for a better career, and offer insights on how listeners can help spread the word and support the invaluable work EKCEPS does. We'll also cover upcoming initiatives, workshops, and hiring events you won't want to miss, and provide all the information you need to find your local Kentucky Career Center or community action agency.And for our business leaders listening, learn how you can partner with EKCEPS to find skilled workers or upskill your current workforce.Visit us at EKCEP.org

In this episode, I sit down with Melissa MacGregor from Jobs for the Future (JFF) to talk about something that keeps coming up in our conversations with regional manufacturing leaders: how do we actually build stronger apprenticeship pathways that meet both worker and industry needs? Melissa brings deep experience and a practical perspective to the table. We get into the nuts and bolts of what makes a "quality job," how registered apprenticeships are structured, and what regional leaders can do to support them,even if they're starting from scratch. Melissa also shares some hard-earned lessons from the field, including the real barriers that stall progress and where she sees opportunities for systemic change. If you're wondering how to move from talk to implementation when it comes to workforce development, this conversation offers a grounded and honest look at what it really takes. Thanks to Melissa and JFF for their exceptional work and for partnering with AMCC to bring about more collective impact for American workers and businesses!MattLinks to Learn More:JFF on State Tax Credits and Tuition SupportJFF Quality Job FrameworkFind Melissa on Linkedin.Learn more about Melissa on JFF's website.Follow AMCC on Linkedin.Find Matt on Linkedin.Visit our website.AMCC's podcast is made possible in part by the expertise of Mike McAllen, founder of Podcasting4Associations. Are you part of an association also looking to produce a podcast? Let us get you in touch with Mike.Thank you to the Economic Development Administration for their partnership in producing this podcast. This podcast was prepared in part using Federal funds under award 3070145 from the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ruth Hickin is Vice President of Workforce Innovation at Salesforce. In this episode, Ruth unpacks her team's efforts around digital labor, and shares how her team is preparing Salesforce's workforce for the age of AI by investing in internal talent through skilling, career mobility, and human-centered design. During our conversation, Ruth unpacks the philosophy behind Career Connect, an AI-powered internal talent marketplace, and how it's enabling employees to explore personalized career paths, skill development, and internal opportunities.Finally, Ruth also shares Salesforce's approach to job redesign, skill-based management, and the rise of agent collaboration in day-to-day roles.LinksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-hickin/Article: https://www.hr-brew.com/stories/2025/03/28/hr-leaders-prioritize-l-and-dArticle: https://www.hr-brew.com/stories/2024/09/04/salesforce-ai-internal-talent-platform 

In this episode of the Road to Growth podcast, we are pleased to introduce you to David Leighton. David, President and CEO of WITI - Workforce Innovation, Trust, and Influence, has been an instrumental figure in shaping the global technological landscape since 1989. Under his leadership, WITI has emerged as the premier global organization for professionals for whom technology plays a pivotal role in their careers, businesses, and personal endeavors.   A visionary relationship builder, David boasts a vast network that spans multiple industries, underscoring his unparalleled expertise in forging strategic partnerships. He has been the driving force behind various start-ups and has an impressive track record of steering companies towards innovation and growth.   David served as the Chairman of Risk Analysis Group, an esteemed security strategies firm focused on Integrated Risk Management (SM). This initiative emphasized the enterprise-wide application of business principles designed to safeguard and optimize organizational workflows. Further enriching his portfolio, David co-founded Criterion Research. This research firm has garnered acclaim for pinpointing and engaging highly specialized technologists and executives tailored for internet, software, and semiconductor companies, as well as venture capital firms. It was under David's insightful leadership that WITI and Criterion Research united, amplifying their collective influence and impact in the tech world. David's professional journey also includes a significant association with Borland International, where he played a pivotal role in elevating the company to the #2 position in the global software industry. His collaborative efforts with Transmeta revolutionized chip manufacturing, and he was integral to Mark Benioff's final project at Oracle before Salesforce's inception. David is currently an Advisory Board Member for Cuva.AI, TheCalendar.com, MeetYourself.me and Author's League.   Learn more and connect with David Leighton by visiting them on   Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PoweredByWITI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidleightonwiti/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidleighton/         Be sure to follow us on Twitter: Twitter.com/to_growth on Facebook: facebook.com/Road2Growth   Subscribe to our podcast across the web: https://www.theenriquezgroup.com/blog Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2Cdmacc iTunes: https://apple.co/2F4zAcn Castbox: http://bit.ly/2F4NfQq Google Play: http://bit.ly/2TxUYQ2 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKnzMRkl-PurAb32mCLCMeA?view_as=subscriber   If you are looking to be a Guest on Podcasts please click below  https://kitcaster.com/rtg/  For any San Diego Real Estate Questions Please Follow Us at web: www.TheEnriquezGroup.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKnzMRkl-PurAb32mCLCMeA or Call : 858 -345 - 7829 Recently reduced properties in San Diego County * Click **** bit.ly/3cbT65C **** Here* ************************************************************ Sponsor = www.MelodyClouds.com

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Alan Sparkman, CAE, LEED AP, CCPf(x3), Executive Director of the Tennessee Concrete Association (TCA), to explore how associations can take bold steps to address workforce challenges. Alan shares TCA's innovative programs to attract and retain talent while fostering long-term industry growth. Key Highlights: Concrete Workforce Innovation: Learn how TCA's initiatives like participating in Be Pro Be Proud and leading Concrete Quest and Skate for Concrete are inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in the trades. Engaging Current Employees: Alan discusses DriverDash, a gamification platform that boosts employee retention and engagement. Influencing the Future Workforce: Discover how TCA's Concrete Influencers program will empower industry professionals to share their stories and inspire young talent. Lessons in Adaptability: Alan emphasizes the importance of experimentation, storytelling and action in tackling workforce shortages. Join us as Alan Sparkman offers actionable strategies for association professionals working to solve workforce challenges and build vibrant industry communities. Stay Connected: Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode. Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies. Tune in for more episodes packed with innovative strategies and practical insights to help your association lead the way in workforce development!

In this episode of the Work in Progress podcast, we begin a three-part series examining the manufacturing comeback in the United States, the resulting surge in job creation, and the types of skills workers need to get those jobs. In the series, we explore how the nation's employers are finding, training, and retraining the talent to fill as many as 3.8 million jobs over the next eight years. Manufacturers say they are already having trouble filling those jobs. Episode One of The Manufacturing Comeback focuses on how large employers are addressing the shortage of skilled talent. Building a Talent Pipeline I recently traveled to Minneapolis to attend The Manufacturing Institute's Workforce Summit 2025. There I spoke with Mark Rayfield, CEO of Saint-Gobain North America and CertainTeed, and with Paul Myles, senior manager of Government Workforce Development and Training Programs at Magna International. In the podcast, Rayfield and Myles discuss how while the demand for manufacturing jobs in America is surging, finding skilled talent to fill these roles is a growing challenge. Unlike manufacturing jobs of the past, these jobs are often tech-focused. That means manufacturing employers are competing with other industries that are also looking for a tech-skilled workforce. We discuss innovative recruitment methods, effective partnerships with educational institutions, and creating career pathways for people from all backgrounds. Behind the Manufacturing Resurgence The recent surge of manufacturing construction and hiring is being fueled by the infusion of federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act enacted in 2021, the CHIPS and Science Act enacted in 2022, and private funding. To better understand how the manufacturing comeback is reshaping the workforce, I speak with Gardner Carrick, chief program officer for The Manufacturing Institute, which is helping employers figure out how to build a strong talent pipeline. Also joining this part of the conversation is Yustina Saleh, managing director of Workforce Innovation for The Burning Glass Institute. Importantly, we look at the ebbs and flows of manufacturing hiring and how jobs have changed over the past several decades. We also examine why it has become more difficult to find workers interested in manufacturing careers, despite the fact that they are often good-paying jobs. You can listen to the entire conversation here, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find our podcasts on the Work in Progress YouTube channel. The Manufacturing Comeback This three-part podcast series is a robust conversation about an industry that is once again looking for workers. Next week, in Episode Two, we turn our attention to how smaller manufacturers are attempting to find and train new workers. This series is made possible through support from The Manufacturing Institute. As a nonprofit journalism organization, WorkingNation partners and collaborates with outside organizations to make possible our mission of telling stories about solutions to today's workforce issues. All editorial decisions on this series were made independently of our supporter. Episode 339: The Manufacturing Comeback: How Large Employers are Sourcing TalentHost & Executive Producer: Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in-Chief, WorkingNationProducer: Larry BuhlTheme Music: Composed by Lee Rosevere and licensed under CC by 4Transcript: Download the transcript for this episode hereWork in Progress Podcast: Catch up on previous episodes here

In this episode of the Work in Progress podcast, we begin a three-part series examining the manufacturing comeback in the United States, the resulting surge in job creation, and the types of skills workers need to get those jobs. In the series, we explore how the nation's employers are finding, training, and retraining the talent to fill as many as 3.8 million jobs over the next eight years. Manufacturers say they are already having trouble filling those jobs. Episode One of The Manufacturing Comeback focuses on how large employers are addressing the shortage of skilled talent. Building a Talent Pipeline I recently traveled to Minneapolis to attend The Manufacturing Institute's Workforce Summit 2025. There I spoke with Mark Rayfield, CEO of Saint-Gobain North America and CertainTeed, and with Paul Myles, senior manager of Government Workforce Development and Training Programs at Magna International. In the podcast, Rayfield and Myles discuss how while the demand for manufacturing jobs in America is surging, finding skilled talent to fill these roles is a growing challenge. Unlike manufacturing jobs of the past, these jobs are often tech-focused. That means manufacturing employers are competing with other industries that are also looking for a tech-skilled workforce. We discuss innovative recruitment methods, effective partnerships with educational institutions, and creating career pathways for people from all backgrounds. Behind the Manufacturing Resurgence The recent surge of manufacturing construction and hiring is being fueled by the infusion of federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act enacted in 2021, the CHIPS and Science Act enacted in 2022, and private funding. To better understand how the manufacturing comeback is reshaping the workforce, I speak with Gardner Carrick, chief program officer for The Manufacturing Institute, which is helping employers figure out how to build a strong talent pipeline. Also joining this part of the conversation is Yustina Saleh, managing director of Workforce Innovation for The Burning Glass Institute. Importantly, we look at the ebbs and flows of manufacturing hiring and how jobs have changed over the past several decades. We also examine why it has become more difficult to find workers interested in manufacturing careers, despite the fact that they are often good-paying jobs. You can listen to the entire conversation here, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find our podcasts on the Work in Progress YouTube channel. The Manufacturing Comeback This three-part podcast series is a robust conversation about an industry that is once again looking for workers. Next week, in Episode Two, we turn our attention to how smaller manufacturers are attempting to find and train new workers. This series is made possible through support from The Manufacturing Institute. As a nonprofit journalism organization, WorkingNation partners and collaborates with outside organizations to make possible our mission of telling stories about solutions to today's workforce issues. All editorial decisions on this series were made independently of our supporter. Episode 339: The Manufacturing Comeback: How Large Employers are Sourcing TalentHost & Executive Producer: Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in-Chief, WorkingNationProducer: Larry BuhlTheme Music: Composed by Lee Rosevere and licensed under CC by 4Transcript: Download the transcript for this episode hereWork in Progress Podcast: Catch up on previous episodes here

Originally uploaded September 25th, re-edited October 31st. Chris Holman welcomes Nick Chaffin, program manager, and Micah Hefty, manager of intercounty operations, WIOA program leaders with CAMW! Lansing, MI THEME: Capital Area Michigan Works! WIOA program leaders give an overview of the WIOA program and their experience as a previous WIOA participant and career coach. Question: My first question is for Nick. What are the primary objectives of the WIOA program at Capital Area Michigan Works!, and how do these objectives align with the broader goals of workforce development in our region? The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act program (WIOA) at CAMW! aims to improve the skills and employability of job seekers by providing access to training, education and job placement services. The program focuses on aligning training with local labor market needs to help individuals secure employment in high-demand industries. A key strategy to accomplish this is engaging with local employers to understand their workforce needs and ensure that the training they provide aligns with industry requirements. The program prioritizes services for disadvantaged populations, including low-income individuals, veterans and those with disabilities. It seeks to provide these groups with the necessary resources and support to overcome barriers to employment, including lack of education, certification or required training. Individuals who are enrolled receive an average of $5,000 that can be used to offset the cost of obtaining credentials for jobs in our region. These credentials may include training within industries like medical services, information technology, manufacturing, truck driving and more. WIOA can also assist with other training and employment retention costs, such as auto repairs, tools, uniforms, equipment and transportation. Furthermore, WIOA includes specific provisions for youth services, focusing on helping young people gain work experience, educational credentials, and career pathways. The objectives of the WIOA program at CAMW! align with broader regional economic development goals by addressing skills gaps and supporting local businesses. By training individuals for in-demand occupations, the program helps drive economic growth and competitiveness in the Capital Area. The resources provided by WIOA also improve workforce quality and mobility, inclusive growth and regional resilience. If you are interested in learning more about the WIOA Program or determining your eligibility, visit the WIOA section on the CAMW! website under the tab “Career Seekers” and “CAMW! Connections.” Please allow 7-9 business days for contact from WIOA Program Staff after submission. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

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

Originally uploaded September 3, re-edited September 26th. Chris Holman welcomes back Teri Sand, SHRM-CP, PHR, CBSP, CRP, Business Services Manager, Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton, and Clinton Counties THEME: Teri discusses the influx of jobs moving away from degree requirements and toward skill requirements and Capital Area Michigan Works!'s role in connecting job seekers to these positions. ● According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), one in every 7 jobs in the country were filled using skill-based hiring last year. ● This approach opens up the workforce to a diverse range of capabilities and perspectives by removing a requirement that poses a barrier to many candidates who are not able to complete a degree. ● Additionally, according to Workforce Strategies, Inc. (WSI), corporations who implement skill-based requirements for careers are likely to see an increase in efficiency due to a better alignment between workforce needs and properly skilled employees. ● The shift toward skill-based hiring emphasizes the value of hands-on experiences and demonstrated abilities which increases accessibility for job seekers. ● Capital Area Michigan Works! offers several services and supports multiple initiatives that aid job seekers in connecting with skill based positions. ○ CAMW! has opportunities available to provide tuition scholarships through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to individuals in need of skill enhancement. ■ Opportunities under the WIOA Act include apprenticeship programs, which cover on-the-job training and classroom instruction with a full-time wage and benefits. ○ CAMW! provides personalized career counseling, skills assessments and the opportunity to speak with career advisors about resume writing, job search strategies and more. ○ CAMW! holds weekly training programs and skill development workshops at the Lansing AJC and collaborates with local businesses and educational institutions to offer unique development opportunities. ● CAMW! actively engages with local employers to stay informed about employment trends and in-demand skill requirements, which allows us to learn what skills employers in our region are in highest need of and help jobseekers develop those skills. ○ CAMW! hosts frequent Employer of the Day events with local businesses to showcase available positions in our region and provide an easily accessible networking opportunity for job seekers. ● To view more of CAMW!'s job search services, visit camw.org/career-seekers/job-search-resources or follow CAMW! on social media to receive current updates on upcoming networking events, workshops and popular job postings. Teri, feel free to expand and add additional information or thoughts. ● According to Michigan Government data, advanced manufacturing, computer systems, healthcare skills and trades expertise, like HVAC services, are in high demand across the state. ○ In the capital area, medical assistance is in the highest demand. ... ● Job seekers who are looking for skill requirement positions should actively network through job and resource fairs, social media and applying consistently to job postings. ... » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Toni Neary, Director of Community Engagement and Workforce Innovation at SME, joins The Manufacturing Employer to share her extensive experience in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and access within the manufacturing industry, and the role doing such plays in hiring and career-building for manufacturers. She also discusses the importance of creating awareness about industrial careers from a young age and shares the concept of "K to Gray."

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

In this episode, co-hosts Omar Nashashibi, Paul Nathanson, and John Guzik discuss the potential $4.6 trillion tax increases that will take effect in 2026, because of the expiring Tax Cuts & Jobs Act of 2017, if Congress does not pass a major tax bill. The team also discusses the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act, which has proposed changes to registered apprenticeship programs. The episode wraps up with a quick discussion of former President Donald Trump's visit to Washington and the ongoing regulatory review of the heat rule.

In season four, episode 11 of the "Stories to Create" Podcast, Cornell Bunting sits down with Tessa LeSage, the architect and director of the FutureMakers Coalition, Southwest Florida's premier regional collective impact initiative at Collaboratory. Tessa shared her journey, from being born in Texas to feeling like a Floridian as she grew up in Southwest Florida. She reminisced about being a straight-A student throughout school until college, driven by a desire for something different and grappling with her identity. She started working at the age of 14 and discussed her role with the FutureMakers Coalition, a network of over 250 individuals and 140 partner organizations committed to transforming the workforce in Southwest Florida. The coalition prioritizes students facing significant challenges to attainment, including traditional age students, adults with some college but no degree, and those without post-high school education experience.Tessa also talked about joining the Southwest Florida Community Foundation in August 2014 as the Director of Social Innovation & Sustainability. She led the development of innovative solutions to understand philanthropic impact by mapping individual organization and local outcomes to the Sustainable Development Goals. This framework facilitates collective impact and enhances the positive outcomes of philanthropic investment. Tune in to hear Tessa's inspiring journey and insights. Support the Show.Thank you for tuning in with EHAS CLUB - Stories to Create Podcast

In the Manufacturing Culture Podcast episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Jeff Fiala, the co-founder and CEO of Transmission, a software platform that revolutionizes manufacturing communication. Fiala shares his entrepreneurial journey and how he transitioned from working on Wall Street to founding Transmission. He discusses communication challenges in the manufacturing industry and the need for real-time, data-driven communication solutions. Fiala also explains how Transmission's platform helps drive data-driven decisions and empowers employees by providing them with important information and improving communication on the factory floor. The conversation highlights the importance of effective communication in the manufacturing industry and how technology can facilitate this. Using digital signage and kiosks in the workplace allows for the dissemination of information, training videos, and two-way communication between employees and management. This technology not only improves productivity but also enhances safety and engagement. It is crucial for companies to link engagement metrics with productivity metrics and create a culture of recognition and celebration of small wins. Additionally, the conversation touches on the future of manufacturing in America and the need to invest in the workforce and build a robust manufacturing base.TakeawaysTransmission is a software platform that revolutionizes communication in the manufacturing industry.Effective communication is crucial in the manufacturing industry, especially with the evolving workforce and the need for real-time information.Transmission's platform helps drive data-driven decisions by providing real-time communication and ensuring that important information reaches all employees.The platform empowers employees by giving them access to important information and allowing them to contribute to improving processes and safety.Transmission's platform accommodates different communication preferences, including digital signage, employee kiosks, and mobile devices. Effective communication is crucial in the manufacturing industry and can be facilitated through the use of technology such as digital signage and kiosks.Digital signage and kiosks improve productivity, safety, and engagement in the workplace.Companies should link engagement metrics with productivity metrics and create a culture of recognition and celebrating small wins.Investing in the workforce and building a robust manufacturing base is essential for the future of manufacturing in America.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview11:05 The Challenges of Workforce Innovation in Manufacturing25:33 The Challenges of Information Overload32:14 The Impact of Little Things on Job Satisfaction38:17 Capturing Employee FeedbackConnect with Jeff on LinkedinVisit the Transmission at their websiteIs your company culture aligned with your business goals? At The Manufacturing Connector, we offer the Foundations Assessment, a comprehensive two-day employee engagement and cultural assessment designed to transform your organization from the inside out. Our process includes leadership team meetings, employee interviews, facility tours, and engagement surveys to provide actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Ready to enhance your organizational dynamics? Visit themfgconnector.com to learn more about our Assessment and start your journey toward a more engaged and productive workplace.Imagine a workplace where every team member feels recognized and valued. That's the promise of Secchi, the leading Employee Relationship Management solution. Secchi empowers frontline leaders to effectively inspire, recognize, and coach their teams. With Secchi's system, you can enhance performance through strategic decision-making, impactful recognition, and real-time process control. Ready to transform your organizational culture? Visit Secchi now and see how it can affect your team's dynamics.

Join us this Women's History Month as we shine a spotlight on the remarkable women shaping the landscape of tech and the public sector.On this episode, Tyler's Media Relations Manager Rikki Ragland sits down with three women driving change at Tyler Technologies. First, Tyler's President of the Digital Solutions Division, Elizabeth Proudfit, shares her inspiring story of forging her own path into the tech world. Next, Cybersecurity Architect Erica Burgess explores the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape and her experience navigating the dynamic field. And finally, General Manager of Enterprise Corrections & Civil Process, Mandye Robinson, shares her perspectives on leadership, workforce innovation, and the intersection of technology and public service.We also highlight National County Government Month, which takes place this April. This annual celebration gives counties an opportunity to showcase their programs and raise public awareness of the many services they provide to their residents.Learn more about the topics discussed in this episode with these resources:• Tyler Technologies & NACo: Modernized Systems from a Connected County• Additional Resources for Counties• Blog: Is it Time for Your County to Move to the Cloud?• Blog: Women in Cybersecurity See Positive Growth• Podcast: Leading Change: Women in CybersecurityAnd you can listen to other episodes of the podcast at this link: www.tylertech.com/resources/podcastLet us know what you think about the Tyler Tech Podcast in this survey!

Episode 7, "Building Futures: Alabama is #1 in Workforce Innovation," explores the transformative initiatives led by Chris Strickland in the construction industry and workforce development across Alabama. From his personal journey of transformation after the Air Force to his passion for innovation in construction, Chris's story is a beacon of inspiration. Learn about the crucial role of work ethic, pride, and legacy in America's labor force, and how overcoming personal challenges can lead to profound personal growth and resilience. This episode also highlights the success of online skills training for high school students, workforce development in rural Alabama, and the strategic partnerships driving innovation in the state. Join us as we uncover the blueprint for building a brighter future through education, empowerment, and strategic collaboration

Phil Kirschner, Senior Expert and Associate Partner, Real Estate & People and Organizational Performance at McKinsey where he advises executive teams on the future of work, employee experience, organizational health, and workplace strategies. Phil discusses systemic changes, expected rebounds in cities' commercial real estate, and organizational health. He shares insights about workplace utilization, the critical emphasis on ‘how' we work and change management to evolve behaviors, and the new retail-oriented perception of work. KEY TAKEAWAYS   [02:25] Phil calls himself an accidental work strategist, starting out in banking.   [03:37] Phil starts in the efficiency management group looking to save money in real estate.   [04:40] How workplace innovation by Google and Microsoft caught public attention.   [05:23] Competition for talent from other industries drives investment to improve work ‘place'.   [06:30] Balancing not having your own desk with other amenities to improve the experience.   [08:06] Trying to reduce office-based friction with shared environments.   [09:00] Most managers absorbed a bit more pain to give team members a better experience.   [10:00] The loss factor and importance of change management to establish new behaviors.   [11:32] Where managers set the example carefully, the highest satisfaction is reported.   [14:02] These are not real estate projects, but culture projects—requiring a cultural shift.   [16:21] Ten years ago, productivity at the bank was measured through self-attestation and surveys.   [17:00] Team dynamics, people's ability to focus, and overall engagement all increased significantly.   [19:57] McKinsey's Organizational Health Framework and Index helps analyze work practices and how these tie to performance.   [21:04] Studying fully remote companies to isolate specific variables, Phil finds them to be top decile performers.   [23:20] Organizational practice surveys show if you give someone flexibility, they are much more likely to report positive outcomes for the organization.   [25:25] You have to teach people how to use new environments and tools differently.   [27:15] The four ways companies are showing up in the world nowadays.   [28:35] Building facilities for very specific purposes rather than trying to solve all needs all the time.   [30:10] Clearly defining the purposes of a workspace unlocks better outcomes.   [32:37] Progressive companies with flexible hybrid policies are working hard to figure out how to adapt fully to all the new ways of working.   [36:45] Most companies need to be focusing on ways of working and responsive spaces.   [40:27] Technology is undoubtedly driving the change in how we work, Phil touches on how AI may change this further.   [44:22] Phil explains the increasing retail nature of our work choices and some of the implications of this when it comes to competition.   [46:56] The HR/IT/Real Estate stool now needs a seat to bridge the gap in employee and customer experience.   [51:10] RTO is not sustainable; Phil explains why and what RTO focused companies can expect.   [55:47] Phil breaks down what commercial real estate issues and positive trends to watch for in the coming years.   [59:05] IMMEDIATE ACTION TIP: Stop thinking about inputs, the days in the office, or “what's the right hybrid?” Focus on outputs and the impact on organizational health. Study work practices and outcomes across your organization based on how people work and collaborate to figure out the secret sauce, then pilot, test, learn, and scale those behaviors, and keep evolving.     RESOURCES   Phil Kirschner on LinkedIn McKinsey.com     QUOTES (edited)   "Those work environments with the bean bags, the beautiful amenities, and the campus also have a desk for each employee. We didn't have the means for that, so to give you a better experience, you had to make a trade with us: give up your assigned seat."   "We found that where you had the managers who were willing to be sitting in the open having calls or conversations in the open, those zones by far were the ones where people would report the highest satisfaction."   "These are not real estate projects, they are change projects. They are culture projects that happen to manifest in space."   "When you've created a culture where lots of work can happen in the open, it eases demand for the formal spaces."   "Fully remote companies that have never had an office, who were born remote and not forcibly remote are top quartile, if not top decile performers against McKinsey's 20-year experience of measuring Organizational Health."   "If you give someone a choice in where they work, either in the office or home or when they're working their hours, we find that they're about one and a half times as likely to report positive outcomes for the organization."   "I am fully a believer that the ways of working are far more powerful as a tool for organizational performance and experience than where we happen to be working. And I wish I knew that 10 years ago."   "For a city like New York, we have to make it compelling and affordable for people to want to live here, even if they're not working for someone who is here."   "I will go back for experiences that I enjoy, back to the same restaurant, same bar, same shows. We like that our customers are repeat customers. We can be repeat workers, and that's going to be a huge unlock in the coming years."   "Changing the way we work is hard, no matter the best tools in the world. It's still hand-to-hand combat group by group, culture by culture, process by process. It's hard, so instead of doing the hard thing, we do the easy thing and there is a call to all go back to the office."  

Chris Holman welcomes back Carrie Carrie Rosingana, CEO, CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties. THEME: Inspired by Veterans Day, Carrie discusses the benefits of hiring veterans and resources employers utilize to connect with veterans. Question: Historically, veterans have struggled to find employment due to a variety of factors, what are some of those barriers? Answer: Upon returning from their service to our country, veterans face the challenge of navigating a new chapter in life, encompassing reintegration into civilian society and establishing meaningful employment. According to Nevada Governor's Office of Workforce Innovation, some barriers include: ● Lack of support. ○ Personal challenges to employment may involve disabilities, mental illness, substance use disorders, lack of interest in returning to work and medical or other appointments. ● Unfamiliar work culture. ○ An unfamiliar work culture may lead to feelings of uncertainty, making some veteran's hesitant about engaging in the employment process. ● Role of employers. ○ Veterans often face a stigma when transitioning to, and remaining in, the civilian workforce. Business owners must be informed on the challenges that veterans face during this transition. Question: I understand that CAMW! offers employment opportunities for veterans, can you please explain some of the services provided? Answer: Located within our Michigan Works! American Job Centers, we have Veterans Career Advisors (VCA) that provide intensive and individualized employment services to eligible veterans and their spouses with significant barriers to employment. ● The VCA provides intensive one-on-one services including: ○ Resume development. ○ Interviewing skills. ○ Housing assistance. ○ Transportation assistance. ○ Additional education. ○ Training opportunities. ○ Networking. ○ Direct referral to other service providers. ● More information on Veteran Employment Services can be found at https://www.camw.org/career-seekers/veteran-employment-services. ● Carrie, please add any additional information. Question: As an employer, what are some of the benefits of hiring veterans? Answer: There are lots of benefits. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, “Military personnel are often cross-trained in multiple skills and have experience in varied tasks and responsibilities. Many Veterans have learned what it means to put in a hard day's work.” ● Veterans bring several unique skills and strengths to the workplace. This includes: ○ Working well in a team. Teamwork is considered an essential part of daily life and is the foundation on which safe military operations are built. ○ Having a sense of duty. Responsibility for job performance and accountability for completing missions are something to take pride in. ○ Experiencing self-confidence. Holding a realistic estimation of self and ability based on experiences is expected of each Service Member. ● Carrie, please add any additional information. Question: Where can Veterans go to learn about employment opportunities in Michigan and more specifically the Lansing area? Answer: We recommend INVESTVets, a community-based organization that connects employers with veteran and military talent by offering activities that reduce the high expectations and stress that are common with traditional job fairs. ● We encourage Veterans to visit their website for more information: http://investvets.org/ » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Guest: ✨ Jonas Angleflod, AI expert and founder and CEO of Theories GroupOn Linkedin | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonasangleflod/On Twitter | https://twitter.com/angleflod____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli_____________________________This Episode's SponsorsBlackCloak

This episode is a part of our Innovation Series, a listening experience that brings the YMCA's innovation process to life through the successes and stories of Y leaders from across the country. This week's podcast guests are Heather Naviasky, Senior Executive Director of Youth Development at the YMCA of Central Maryland, Lyle Batalona, WIOA Services Program Director at the YMCA of San Diego County, and Tosin Akande, Manager, Movement Engagement at Y-USA YMCA staff and volunteers can ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠visit Link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to access the innovation resources mentioned in this episode. NOTES: Funded by the Department of Labor through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the goal of the Workforce Pathways for Youth Project is to engage four Ys who have been delivering workforce readiness support in their communities, that help young people become career-ready. The YMCA of the USA will then leverage the robust experience of the four Ys and their Workforce Partnership Teams (ie collaborative partners) to increase access to and engagement in workforce readiness efforts. Y-USA will then develop a continuum of evidence-informed, workforce readiness strategies and leading practices to scale through Activation Cohorts. The long-term outcome will be an increase in the number of Ys offering workforce readiness services and an increase in the number of young people served. --- About the Causenetic Podcast: The Causenetic podcast is focused on expanding the Y's mission to audiences and providing conversation, inspiration, and influence. Our hosts, Keith Vinson and Rodrigua Ross, are two YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas employees discussing community topics that are globally-minded and locally-focused. This podcast allows listeners to see a different perspective and connect to community issues. ⁠www.ymcadallas.org/causenetic --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/causenetic/message

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act: Data Analytics Manager Chris Magee recaps a new LLA report that examines Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs to answer questions about service delivery and administration, WIOA spending, and the number of participants enrolled compared to the eligible population, program success, and potential improvements. | https://LLA.La.gov/go/podcast

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act: Data Analytics Manager Chris Magee recaps a new LLA report that examines Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs to answer questions about service delivery and administration, WIOA spending, and the number of participants enrolled compared to the eligible population, program success, and potential improvements. | https://LLA.La.gov/go/podcast

Maria Cherjovsky has dedicated over 25 years to the fields of workforce development, nonprofit management, social services and higher education, addressing the emerging needs of employers while representing and supporting underserved groups. She's held executive roles at the University of Central Florida as well as local nonprofit organizations including Vice President of Mission Services and Workforce Innovation for Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Vice President of Operations for the Coalition for the Homeless, President of the Florida Diversity Council, President of the Central Florida Disability Chamber of Commerce, which she helped transition to the Florida Abilities and Inclusion Network; and Executive Director of AMCSI, a national organization on disability inclusion. In addition to these roles, Maria was a college professor for 10 years; a career coach, instructional designer, project manager, marketing expert and consultant for 15+ years, both domestically and internationally, transforming organizations, developing high performing teams, thus furthering the impact on the individuals and communities served. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vets2pm/support

In this episode, you'll learn about the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and some of its programs serving adults, dislocated workers, and youth. Get ready to discover how WIOA, a reauthorization of the 2014 Workforce Investment Act, is designed to strengthen our nation's public workforce system and empower adults, youth, and those facing employment barriers, to access high-quality careers.  

In this episode, we invite you to listen in on a Workforce Futures Initiative (WFI) event from February 2023. WFI is a collaboration between the American Enterprise Institute, the Brookings Institution, and the Harvard Kennedy School Malcolm Wiener Center for Social Policy that analyzes the latest research on various aspects of the workforce development system to inform policy at the federal, state, and local levels. In this event, Brent Orrell is joined by leading workforce experts Harry Holzer, Greg Wright, and Rachel Lipson to discuss the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), sector-based training programs, community colleges and their connection to the workforce, and labor market data information. Mentioned in the EpisodeWorkforce Futures InitiativeWorkforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)Harry HolzerGreg WrightRachel Lipson Year UpPer ScholasProject QuestCHIPS ActTrade Adjustment Assistance for Community College ProgramGood Jobs ChallengeSocial Innovation FundMatt Sigelman, Burning Glass InstituteJulia Lane, NYU Rich Hendra, MDRCASAP program, CUNYAnne Kress, Northern Virginia Community College

From WIN Podcast: Paola Velasquez, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Manufacturing at IMEC ( Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center), joins the program to discuss various DEI efforts underway in the manufacturing sector. Paola discusses the importance of keeping equity in mind during the hiring process and the importance for leaders of examining their own diversity story. Discover the benefits of a more diverse talent pool and takeaways for other industries. 

From Workforce Innovation News:  In this episode, you'll learn about the manufacturing training programs available at Kaskaskia College. Discover how to prepare for a manufacturing career and the various types of career opportunities available within the manufacturing industry. You'll also hear about how to access funding sources and the range of support services available for students. 

From Workforce Innovation News: Heidi Cade, Family Advocate for C.E.F.S Head Start, joins the program along with Michelle Henry, a service program participant. Michelle shares her journey and why she reached out for support after losing her job and why she decided to pursue additional training. She also reveals how she overcame multiple obstacles along the way, including managing her studies while caring for an infant child. Heidi also discusses how her organization got the word out about services, even during the pandemic. 

Workforce innovation is a true calling for Amy Volz of Trane Technologies. It allows her to combine her passion for marketing and brand strategy with her love for helping to unlock the potential of women and create opportunity for all.

Eric Alvarez is the CEO and Founder of Grapefruit Health, a company that is creating a brand new workforce to help meet the significant shortage of healthcare workers today. Prior to this adventure, he has held multiple positions within the healthcare industry. Most recently Eric was the COO of a healthcare technology startup called Fibroblast, which was acquired by the EMR giant Cerner Corporation in 2020. In this role, he oversaw product, development, human resources, finance, general company operations, and was active in all major sales cycles. Before joining Fibroblast, Eric was a hospital administrator at the University of Chicago Medicine and Northwestern Medicine. In these roles, he led large clinical and nonclinical teams mostly in specialty services that included the services lines of Cardiovascular surgery, Urology, and Ophthalmology. These roles have provided Eric with a deep understanding of how health systems function as a business and what their systemic challenges are. Eric earned his Masters in Healthcare Administration from Rush University, a top 5 program, and his Bachelors in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois University, a top 10 program. Prior to college, he served in the United States Air Force during Iraqi Freedom. Most recently, Eric was named a top 100 Rising LatinX founders, Distinguished Alumni of the Year from Rush, and took a board seat at Southern Illinois University's College of Health and Human Sciences.Learn more Grapefruit Health

From Workforce Innovation News Podcast: Tune in for part two of a conversation about the future of work and preparing the future workforce. Discover the importance of starting early when helping students start their career exploration and how busy educators can incorporate career exploration into their work. You'll also hear about innovative methods of engaging students and helping them identify their career interests and options. 

Maria Cantu from the Kentucky Career Center shares details about the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act having up to $6000 for qualified individuals training.

Your host, Sri Chellappa, talks with Head of Workforce Innovation at ServiceNow, Kelly Steven-Waiss. ServiceNow works by digitizing and automating siloed processes, which dramatically improves the experience for those who work for you and those who work with you. They are helping the world work by championing a net-zero carbon environment, making the workplace more equitable for all, and acting with integrity.To learn more about ServiceNow, click here.If you think you'd be a great guest on our show, apply here. Want to learn more about Sri's work at Engagedly? Check out their website at https://engagedly.com/.

Some 350 people came to the Metropolitan Baptist Church's facility in Newark, New Jersey over the course of a three-day vision clinic recently. They left, not only with a new prescription, but stylish glasses they had chosen – all for free! This was thanks to the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation and Aetna, bolstered by members of CVS Health's Workforce Innovation and Talent Center Team. Melissa was there, too – and she spoke with Christina Nicastro, the lead director of Aetna Vision, Dawn Yager, program manager with OneSight, and Valdemar Reyes, a senior regional manager of Target Optical. Not to mention three very happy attendees – who can see much more clearly now!

When her career started as a basketball coach, one could argue it was foreshadowing a future in Indiana. President of Huntington University, Sherilyn Emberton, joins the podcast this week. She talks about the evolution of the university's offerings, how they've evolved since COVID-19 and the importance of connecting their students to diverse and vast opportunities in agbioscience.