Michael Simpson, CEO of PAIRIN, joins the program to discuss the work that his company is doing to make everyone’s journey personally relevant and equitable. Discover how PAIRIN’s science-based technology and personalized approach to client services ensures not only the success of clients’ programs, but also the success of people in their communities who benefit most from skills-based development and career services. Michael also shares his thoughts about a recent report that PAIRIN released about the 8 foundational building blocks for individual performance and growth.

Christian Michael, Program Manager for Grow with Google, joins the program to discuss the work that Google is doing to create opportunities for nontraditional talent to kickstart their careers in high demand fields, including IT. Christian reveals why Google created their own career certificates and shares why Google is looking to partner with local workforce boards across the United States.

Mark Douglass, President of Equus Workforce Solutions, joins the program to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy and labor needs. Discover some of the skills that will be increasingly important in the new workplace, and what employers are looking for when evaluating talent. Mark also shares his thoughts on why the workforce system is uniquely qualified to assist with upskilling and reskilling the labor force of today and the future.

Eric Seleznow, Senior Advisor at JFF and Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for the US Department of Labor, joins the program to discuss trends in apprenticeships, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on apprenticeship programs. Discover the various benefits of apprenticeships for employers and job seekers, and the need for strategic partnerships.

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik from New York's 21st District in the House of Representatives, joins the program to discuss her advocacy for Fort Drum and the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has created at the U.S.- Canadian border. She also discusses Elevating America’s Workforce Act, legislation that establishes personal reemployment accounts (PRAs) to help displaced workers obtain the training and skills necessary for sustained employment.

Dr. Paul David Spradley, CEO of Care Based Leadership, LLC, joins the program to discuss the work that his company does collaboratively designing specific solutions around improving organizational climate and equitable and inclusive outcomes. Discover the power of mentoring, how to engage young African-American men, and how to create a culture of care.

Dr. Paul Harrington, Professor and Director of the Center for Labor Markets and Policy at Drexel University, joins the program to discuss the impact of the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on young people and the emerging workforce. Dr. Harrington also shares his thoughts on the impact that the current disruption may have on the education system, and the decisions that students make regarding pursuing college and careers. 

In this episode, you'll learn about Operation Next, and the work that they are doing preparing military personnel careers in advanced manufacturing. Launched as a pilot at Fort Campbell, Kentucky in early 2018, Operation Next is an innovative, manufacturing-focused training and credentialing initiative. Operation Next provides a blended learning program to soldiers within their last six months of service, but while still on active duty, resulting in the individual earning one or more nationally portable, standards-based, industry recognized credentials.

Dr. Jerry Paytas, Economic Development Pracademic, Vice President of Analytics at the Fourth Economy, joins the program to share his perspective on the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the U.S. economy. Discover what workforce boards need to keep in mind when it comes to economic development, and what we can learn from the response from other countries.

Leo Reddy, CEO of the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council, joins the program to discuss the importance of a strong national industrial base and the emerging technologies that are impacting the industry. Discover the changing perception and reality about modern manufacturing and the innovation that occurring in the manufacturing sector.

Dr. Alexandrea Ravenelle, author of Hustle and Gig: Struggling and Surviving in the Sharing Economy, joins the program to discuss the costs, benefits and social impact of freelance work and the gig economy. Discover the economic forces that have led to an increase in freelance work, and why some freelance workers do well in the gig economy while others struggle. Dr. Ravenelle also discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gig workers.

Musician and freelance worker Jastin Artis joins the program to discuss the challenges and opportunities of being a gig worker. Discover the skills needed to be successful in the gig economy, and lessons for workforce boards.

To hear learn more about Jastin and hear his music, visit: https://www.justapuppet.com/

Nick Schultz, Pacific Gateway Executive Director, joins host Ron Painter, President & CEO of NAWB, as they discuss the efforts that have been made to strengthen the workforce system in Long Beach, CA. Discover the unique opportunities that The Port of Long Beach provides to the area, the impact that automation has had on employment, and the takeaways for workforce boards.

Keith Lawing, President and Chief Executive Officer at Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas, Inc. joins host Ron Painter, President and CEO of NAWB, to discuss how they are preparing their workforce to meet the needs of employers. Discover the importance of industry and educational partnerships, and the mindset shift that is needed for the workforce system to evolve.

Bob Lanter, Executive Director of the California Workforce Association, joins the program to discuss the Workforce Executive Boot Camp. Discover who the boot camp is for and what it entails. Bob also reveals the important partnership between workforce leaders and the education system and innovative ways to energize board members. to Learn more, visit https://forum.nawb.org/forum/bootcamp