What does the future of workforce development look like—and how can education and business leaders work together to shape it? In this episode of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham sits down with Dean Faile, President and CEO of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, to explore how aligning education with evolving industry needs can empower the next generation of leaders.

Dean shares his personal mission of inspiring others to become more than they thought possible, and he dives deep into topics like bridging the skill gap, the power of micro-credentials, and the mutual benefits of helping students gain real-world experience. He offers practical advice for educators, policy makers, and students alike—emphasizing curiosity, proactive thinking, and servant leadership as key ingredients for long-term success.

Tune in for an energizing conversation packed with insights on how business and education can work hand in hand to cultivate leadership, purpose, and opportunity in our communities. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at Franklin Covey Education

Guest: Dean Faile, President/CEO of York County Regional Chamber of Commerce

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 03:10) Introduction

(03:11 - 05:02) Getting to Know Dean

(05:03 - 08:27) Living Out the Mission Along the Journey

(08:28 - 11:59) The Most Critical Skills to Develop

(12:00 - 18:03) Bridging the Skill Gap

(18:04 - 20:19) Mutual Benefits to Helping Students

(20:20 - 25:47) The Power of Micro-Credentials

(25:48 - 30:39) Advice for Educators and Policy Makers

(30:40 - 32:46) Having an Intense Curiosity

(32:47 - 34:46) Powerful Leadership Books

(34:47 - 35:40) Dean’s Walk Up Song

(35:41 - 36:36) Advice for High School Students

(36:37 - 39:31) Empowering the Future Generation

(39:32 - 40:06) Closing