Innovation Unplugged

In Episode 41, “Industry Driven: Training For The Community with Micheal Barnette” Dean of Workforce and Economic Development Programs from Central Alabama Community College joins Brandi Merrill and Julie Frizzell for a conversation focused on the dynamic world of workforce development. 
Micheal shares his career journey from over 20 years to now leading workforce initiatives at CACC, which serves a wide region. He discusses the college’s strong emphasis on non-credit, industry-driven training programs and highlights the success of training incumbent workers and high school students, as well as Alabama Veterans through a partnership with Dovetail Landing. 
Join us as we unpack insights and strategies shaping the future of workforce development in Alabama. Whether you're an educator, industry leader, or passionate about empowering communities, this episode will inspire you to rethink the collaborative efforts driving lasting change. Tune in and be part of a conversation that is transforming lives through training across the state! 

In episode 40, “Connecting Students: Pathways of Education and Skills Training in Workforce Development” podcast hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozer sit down with the Dean of Workforce Development and Skills Training at Northeast Alabama Community College. Kerry shares his unique career journey, from opening a collision repair shop to transitioning into teaching and leading workforce initiatives.
Hear about Kerry Wright’s experience with integrating the ACCS Innovation Center's Skills for Success program into the college's offerings. He shares his initial skepticism, but how he's seen the positive impact it's had on reaching students who may not have otherwise pursued post-secondary education or skills training. He also highlights how Northeast Alabama is working with local school systems to offer school bus training. 
Get an inside look at how they're working to show students the full range of post-secondary options - from skills-based credentials to traditional degree programs that ultimately lead to in-demand jobs. Join us as we explore transformative strategies in workforce development that empower students and reshape the future of education! 

In Episode 39, “Driven Vision: Plans to Transform Workforce Development with Dr. Ira Jones” podcast hosts Houston Blackwood and Kaliah Dozier sit down with Dr. Ira Jones, Director of Workforce Development at Drake State Community and Technical College. 
Dr. Jones shares his remarkable journey from growing up in a blue-collar family to serving in the Marine Corps, law enforcement, and the FBI. He discusses how this diverse experience led him to his current role at Drake State, where he is working to build a high-functioning workforce development program.
Discover the strategic vision that Dr. Jones has for the Workforce Development office at Drake State, with plans to grow the team and establish key partnerships. This episode also explores the behind-the-scenes efforts that enabled Drake State to host the pilot lab for the Skills for Success Flooring Installation Technician course.  
Tune in to learn about the challenges and victories in revitalizing a workforce development department and discover the transformative power of community collaboration in driving meaningful change. Don't miss this inspiring narrative of leadership, resilience, and a steadfast dedication to empowering the local community. 

In Episode 38, “Creating Impact: Enhancing Community Through Workforce Development with Dr. Josh Duplantis”, podcast host Houston Blackwood speaks with Dr. Duplantis, the Dean of Workforce Development at Coastal Alabama Community College for a conversation centered

In Episode 37, “Leadership Insights: Recruiting and Navigating Through the Workforce with Ben Cottingham ” Lead Recruiter at FireSeeds, a leading recruiting and talent development firm based in Birmingham, joins Houston Blackwood and Julie Frizzell on the podcast. In this episode, we dive into the worlds of recruiting, leadership, and the future of workforce development.
Ben shares his journey from education to recruiting, emphasizing the crucial role of relationship-building in both fields. He discusses the challenges of transitioning into recruitment, overcoming the learning curve, and excelling in identifying skilled professionals.
The conversation also delves into the unique needs of various sectors, such as hospitality, architecture, engineering, and construction. Ben emphasizes the importance of continuous learning for leaders at all levels and the complexities of leading across generations, advocating for 360-degree leadership.
Additionally, Ben highlights the innovative Skills for Success program and its transformative impact on students' lives, expressing optimism about its potential to be replicated across states.
Tune in to discover insights on recruiting, strategies for career growth, fostering strong relationships, and creating a culture of trust and continuous learning in your organization. Whether you're a recruiter, a young professional, or passionate about leadership and skills development, this episode is packed with strategies to help you build a more engaged workforce!

In Episode 36, “Offering Opportunities: Innovative Skills Training for Communities with Rob Lee  ” Director of Workforce for Wallace Community College Selma joins podcast hosts Julie Frizzell and Brandi Merrill for an enlightening conversation centered around offering skills training, partnering with industries, and community impact.
Rob shares his inspiring journey from IT professional to leader in workforce development, delving into the challenges and successes of providing training across the several counties he and his team serve. He highlights how strategic partnerships with local industries and innovative workforce initiatives are transforming lives.
Listen as Rob discusses the critical need for tailored training, the role of high school integration in preparing the next generation for successful careers, and the importance of flexible learning models, apprenticeships, and life management skills. He also shares his vision for improving employee retention and enhancing the training landscape at Wallace Community College Selma.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in education, workforce development, and community impact. Tune in to explore how collaboration and commitment can create pathways to success for countless individuals.

In Episode 35, Cultivating Community: Innovations in Workforce Development with Nanyail Smoke" hosts Brandi Merrill and Julie Frizzell sit down with Nanyail Smoke, the Director of Workforce Development at Chattahoochee Valley Community College, for an insightful conversation about workforce initiatives and hopes for community partnerships and workforce development in East Alabama.
Discover the innovative programs CVCC is implementing, such as dual enrollment and skills-based learning training, which aim to equip students with the practical skills needed in today’s job market. Nanyail highlights the college’s commitment to hands-on training and real-world experience, sharing a success story from a Skills for Success course that illustrates the transformative power of these initiatives.
She discusses her vision for expanding community outreach and building partnerships with local organizations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with small businesses to meet community needs and develop a skilled workforce.
Join us for an engaging discussion that explores the future of workforce development and the exciting opportunities on the horizon! 

In Episode 34, "Opportunities Unlocked: The Power of Connections and Workforce Education with Doug Brazier, hosts Houston Blackwood and Brandi Merrill welcome Director of Workforce Solutions for an insightful conversation about the impactful initiatives and inspiring success stories at Calhoun Community College.
Join us as Doug shares his unique journey from working in his family’s business to the world of higher education, revealing how he forges deep connections with students and empowers them to transform their lives through skills training. His captivating stories highlight the transformative impact of taking a leap of faith to learn new skills, revealing the remarkable outcomes that can follow. This episode also shines a light on the crucial role community colleges play in creating opportunities and fostering strong partnerships with local industries. 
 Whether you're passionate about workforce development, education, or simply love stories of resilience, this episode is a must-listen. This episode is a powerful reminder of how workforce education, industry connections, and community support can change lives and strengthen our communities. 

In Episode 33, “Pathways to Progress: Transforming Lives Through Training” podcast hosts, Julie Frizzell and Kailah Dozier delve into the impactful work that Wallace State Community College Hanceville is doing through workforce training and Skills for Success

In Episode 32, “Educational Impact: Preparing K12 For The Workforce with Dr. Marvin Lowe”, podcast hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier talk with Director of Career and Technical Education for Bullock County Schools about preparing the next generation