In recognition of the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week, this episode explores the transformative power of modern apprenticeship programs through an engaging discussion with employers, apprentices, and workforce development leaders. Led by George Wright, CEO of The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, the conversation features insights from Rob Johnson of the Building Owners and Management Association of Chicago, Jennifer Charles of GCJ Hospitality Resources, and apprentices Natalie Guzman and Janira Martinez. The discussion highlights how apprenticeships have evolved beyond traditional trades to create valuable career pathways in commercial property management, hospitality, and other sectors. Panelists explore themes such as employee retention versus acquisition, the importance of mentorship, and how apprenticeships create structured learning environments that benefit both employers and participants. For more information about apprenticeships, reach out to The Partnership at [email protected]. 

This episode originally aired on WVON-AM radio and explores youth workforce development programs in Cook County. Host George Wright, CEO of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, is joined by Joshua, a program coordinator for the Partnership's Community Innovations and Impact team. The conversation focuses on two key initiatives: Opportunity Works and Opportunity Summer, which connect young people with paid internships and training in high-growth industries. Joshua discusses the programs' origins, their impact on youth, and the various career pathways available. Discover insights into how these initiatives are addressing youth unemployment, providing valuable work experience, and supporting young people's career development. 

This episode originally aired on WVON-AM radio and explores the diverse career opportunities within the healthcare industry. Host George Wright, CEO of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, is joined by a community health worker with the South Side Healthy Community Organization and the Deputy Project Director of the Partnership's Healthcare Sector Center. The conversation dispels common myths about healthcare careers, highlighting that the field extends far beyond just doctors and nurses. Discover the importance of preventive care, the need for diversity in healthcare, and how individuals from all backgrounds, including those with justice involvement, can find rewarding careers in the healthcare sector.

This episode originally aired on WVON-AM radio and explores the critical role of construction careers in creating family-sustaining pathways and addressing workforce diversity challenges. Host George Wright, CEO of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, is joined by guest Manny Rodriguez, Executive Director of Revolution Workshop. They discuss how organizations like Revolution Workshop are working to meet the demand for a more diverse and skilled construction workforce. The conversation highlights the misconceptions surrounding careers in construction, the importance of early exposure to trades in schools, and the need for holistic support to help underserved communities access these opportunities.

This episode originally aired on WVON-AM radio and features a discussion about the groundbreaking partnership between Malcolm X College's Westside Learning Center, KRA, and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership. Guests David A. Sanders, President of Malcolm X College, Dean Barbara Meschino, and Nieal Ross from KRA Corporation share insights on how this collaboration is transforming lives in Chicago's Austin community by providing accessible education, career training, and job placement services all under one roof. The conversation highlights the $20 million investment in the Westside Learning Center, debunks myths about community college education, and emphasizes the importance of believing in every student's potential. 

This episode originally aired on WVON-AM radio and features a discussion about ConstructionWorks, a workforce development program funded by the Illinois Tollway, and administered by The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership. Host and CEO of the Partnership, George Wright, is joined by Cassaundra Rouse, Executive Director of the Illinois Tollway, and Marlene Vick, Acting Chief of Diversity for the Illinois Tollway. They explore how ConstructionWorks is designed to increase diversity and access to high-paying careers in the construction industry, particularly in heavy highway construction work. The conversation covers the program's mechanics, eligibility requirements, support services, and the importance of preparing candidates for the realities of a career in the construction industry. 

Host George Wright, CEO of The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, is joined by City Colleges of Chicago Chancellor Juan Salgado, as they discuss their intentional partnership to connect the 60,000+ City Colleges students with career opportunities. Discover how this collaboration between the workforce and education systems aims to provide upward mobility and equity for Chicago's students. You'll also hear about the importance of higher education in gaining skills and stability in the job market, and the critical role of partnerships between workforce development and educational institutions in bridging the gap between students and meaningful career paths.

Join host George Wright, Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, as he discusses the organization's new "Level Up Your Career" and "Power Up Your Business" campaign. Joining the conversation are Vanessa Lopez Jackson, a leader at The Lemon Ad Stand creative agency which developed the gaming-themed campaign aimed at promoting the region's ten American Job Centers. Also featured are Lisa Maentz and Clelia Ferro, leaders at AJCs in suburban Cook County, who share how the centers provide services for career seekers and employers, evolve to meet changing needs, and foster ongoing relationships with local businesses. Tune in to learn how this collaborative effort makes workforce development accessible through innovative marketing and vital community partnerships to ensure the region’s public workforce system is no longer the area’s “best kept secret.” Visit https://levelupajc.org/ to learn more.

Tune in for a conversation with George Wright, as he reflects on his first 90 days as CEO of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership (The Partnership). George reveals his top goals for The Partnership and discusses the moments that have stood out to him in his first 90 days as CEO. He also shares his personal journey and how the timeless values he learned from his parents inform his leadership approach.