In Episode 52, Kailah Dozier and Houston Blackwood are joined by Dr. Matt Massey, President of the Alabama School for Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE), for an in-depth discussion about how this pioneering high school is reshaping education for the future.Dr. Massey explains how ASCTE’s unique STEM-focused approach is cultivating well-rounded students prepared for success in cybersecurity and engineering. Whether students continue their education at a community college, pursue a four-year degree, or enter the workforce, ASCTE ensures they are equipped for the next step in their journey.Tune in as we explore the innovative practices and inspiring success stories that make ASCTE a leader in education. From their diverse student body to groundbreaking partnerships, ASCTE is setting new standards for high school education and preparing the next generation of leaders.

In Episode 51, podcast hosts Houston Blackwood and Julie Frizzell sit down with Sandie Dutton, the Registrar Manager for the Innovation Center. Sandie opens up about her journey—from her initial plan of being a stay-at-home mom to her impactful career in education and workforce development.Listen in as Sandie shares how her personal experiences, including supporting her children's educational paths, sparked her passion for community college programs. She also reflects on the growth of the Innovation Center, a team she’s been a part of almost from the start, and the transformative work being done.With a focus on continuous improvement, Sandie’s positive attitude shines through. Join us as we celebrate the Innovation Center’s success and the dedicated team members, like Sandie, who make it all possible. This episode offers an inside look at the heart of the Innovation Center and its mission to empower Alabama's workforce through Skills for Success!

In Episode 50, ACCS Innovation Center’s Chief of Operations, Julie Frizell, and Directors Houston Blackwood, Brandi Merrill, and Kaliah Dozier come together for a milestone podcast recording. This dynamic team reflects on the podcast’s journey over the past year, from spontaneous brainstorming sessions to creating the format and landing on the perfect name.They share their favorite guests, standout episodes, and how these conversations have sparked growth for both the Innovation Center and community colleges across the state. Exciting changes are also announced, with new hosts bringing fresh energy and perspectives to the podcast. The team also discusses ideas like live recordings from community college labs and on-site at industry partner locations, along with ambitious goals for Skills for Success enrollments, completers, and courses offered.Join us as we celebrate 50 episodes of Innovation Unplugged! We look forward to an exciting future of authentic conversations about workforce development in Alabama.

In Episode 49, "Collaborative Growth: Transforming Workforce Training for Success," Akareem Spears, Dean of Workforce Economic Development at Bishop State Community College, joins hosts Brandi Merrill and Houston Blackwood for an insightful discussion on workforce development initiatives.

In Episode 48, “Expanding Horizons: Strengthening Reach and Impact in Workforce Training” podcast host, Brandi Merrill sits down with the workforce team from Bevill State Community College to hear about workforce initiatives and the impact their work has on the community they serve.

In Episode 47, “Creating Opportunity: Transforming the Community with Skills Training”, podcast hosts Houston Blackwood and Julie Frizzell sit down with Chad Sutton, Associate Dean of Workforce Development and Strategic Initiatives at LBW Community College, to dive into impactful workforce development efforts.
Chad sheds light on how LBW is driving meaningful change in the community through Skills for Success and their workforce programs, offering vital skill-building opportunities to diverse groups, including high school students, incumbent workers, and incarcerated individuals. Learn how LBW is breaking down barriers, like bridging the digital divide for those without internet access, while empowering individuals with hands-on training and real-world skills.
Tune in to hear how these programs are shaping the future, creating opportunity, and making a lasting impact in the community. Get ready to be inspired by the transformative work happening at LBW Community College!

In Episode 46, “Workforce Ready: Innovative Skills Training for K-12, Industry, and the Community with Tyler Nelson”, Director of Workforce Development at Southern Union State Community College, joins podcast hosts Houston Blackwood and Kaliah Dozier

In Episode 45, “Machinery and Mentorship: Shaping Student Success with Shelton State Heavy Equipment Instructors”, host Brandi Merrill sits down with Ken Richardson and Sherman Lee, two exceptional heavy equipment instructors from Shelton State Community College.

In Episode 44, “Healthcare Education: Exploring Career Pathways in Alabama”, hosts Houston Blackwood and Julie Frizzell explore the innovative workforce development initiatives shaping Alabama's healthcare landscape with the Dean of Health Sciences at Calhoun Community College. 
From his journey in manufacturing to healthcare education, Kenneth shares insights on addressing critical workforce shortages, nursing apprenticeships and dual enrollment pathways for high school students.
Discover the Skills for Success Nursing Support Technician (NST) course that is designed to streamline patient care training, and its integration with traditional CNA programs to offer students a versatile set of credentials. This initiative also provides another valuable pathway for students to enter the healthcare field and for healthcare employers to find trained workers.
This episode offers a deep dive into Alabama's healthcare workforce training efforts and highlights the collaboration between CTE leaders and healthcare professionals. Tune in to hear how the ACCS is pioneering healthcare education and shaping the future of the state’s healthcare workforce, preparing the next generation of skilled professionals!  

 In Episode 43, “Bridging The Gap: Empowering Local Leaders and Strengthening Communities with Mary Jackson” podcast hosts Kailah Dozier and Brandi Merrill dive deep into local government and community development with the Director of Community and Professional Development at the Alabama League of Municipalities. 
Mary shares her journey from Colorado to Alabama, discussing her background as a city clerk and her dedication to empowering local leaders. Learn about the League’s initiatives and the partnership between the League and the Innovation Center to create a Skills for Success course specifically tailored for mayors and city officials that focuses on the training needed to lead a community forward.
Discover how government agencies and community partners can work together to enhance cities and towns and explore innovative solutions to educate the youth and local leadership to cultivate the next generation of civic-minded changemakers. Whether you're a local official, community advocate, or simply interested in government, this episode offers a unique look at how Alabama’s communities are growing and thriving!