(00:00:00) TNWorks - Commissioner Deniece Thomas and Deputy Governor Stuart McWhorter

(00:16:19) TNWorks - Dr. Steven Gentile and Dr. Jeff Sisk

In this episode, we explore a new way of building business in Tennessee through TNWorks, a groundbreaking initiative that unites six state agencies (Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development,Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, Tennessee Board of Regents, Tennessee Higher Education Commission, Tennessee Department of Human Services, and the Tennessee Department of Education) to strengthen the state’s workforce and economy. Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Deniece Thomas and Deputy Governor & Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter share how this collaborative effort will help businesses thrive across the state. Later, we hear from Tennessee Higher Education Commission Executive Director Dr. Steven Gentile and Tennessee Board of Regents Executive Director Dr. Jeff Sisk, who discuss the vital education component of TNWorks and how it equips Tennesseans with the skills needed for long-term success.

In this month’s episode, we sit down with Timberly Russell from the Martha O'Bryan Center in Nashville to explore a critical issue facing many working families: the benefits cliff. This phenomenon occurs when individuals receiving public assistance face a tough choice—accept a raise or promotion and risk losing essential benefits, or turn down career advancement to maintain support. Timberly shares how the Martha O'Bryan Center is working to address this issue through advocacy and policy efforts at both the state and federal levels. We also learn more about the Center’s wide range of support services, including adult education, health and wellness programs, and an on-site food bank.

(00:00:00) Michael P. Davidson - Skills Career Coalition

(00:08:07) JJ Owens - Skilled Career Coalition

(00:16:23) Brian Vaughn - The Sow Project

In this episode, we sit down with Michael P. Davidson to discuss the urgent demand for skilled workers as the industry faces a wave of retirements. Next, JJ Owens shares strategies for reaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha to inspire the next generation of talent in the skilled trades. We also spotlight Skills Jam, a unique conference where young people experience hands-on opportunities to explore career paths. Finally, we head into the kitchen with The Sow Project, where chef Ben Vaughn highlights culinary apprenticeships in Memphis and the importance of hiring justice-involved individuals.

In this episode of State of the Workforce, we sit down with representatives from the Tennessee Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) to explore the vital role the Bureau plays in supporting both workers and employers across the state. We discuss how the BWC helps Tennesseans through services like mediation, the ombudsman program, and return-to-work initiatives designed to assist injured workers in regaining stability and purpose. The conversation also highlights how the Bureau partners with employers to ensure compliance and promote safer workplaces. We wrap up the episode with a closer look at the BWC’s Medical Unit and their focus on best practices for the long-term care and recovery of injured workers.

Workforce Focus: Building Tennessee's Early Childhood Education Pipeline In this episode of State of the Workforce, we shine a spotlight on early childhood education and the growing need for qualified teachers across Tennessee. Dr. Leslie Cowell, Dean of the College of Education at Lipscomb University, and Melanie Shinbaum from the Nashville Early Education Coalition join us to discuss the urgent demand for educators serving children ages 0-5. Dr. Cowell returns later in the episode alongside Angela Goddard of the Joe C. Davis Foundation to explore how teacher apprenticeships at Lipscomb are opening doors for aspiring educators. Finally, we believe everyone who wants to work in Tennessee should have that opportunity. Misty Vetter Parsley and Becky Sullivan from the Lipscomb IDEAL Program share how they’re preparing individuals with developmental disabilities for meaningful employment and greater independence.

In this episode, we dive into the world of culinary arts and hospitality through the lens of ProStart. We sit down with Brittany Barragan from the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association and Chef Lyndsey Weatherford of Nolensville High School to explore how ProStart allows students to explore real-world careers in the hospitality industry. 

Then, it's off to the kitchen with the State Culinary Champions from Blackman High School in Rutherford County as they showcase the award-winning dishes that earned them the top title.

Finally, we catch up with the Management Competition State Champions, Senior Audrey Mangrum and Junior Evan Tracey from Nolensville High School, to learn about their winning restaurant concept, marketing strategy, and business plan.

From sizzling kitchens to boardroom pitches, this episode highlights the passion, skill, and career potential.

In this month’s episode of State of the Workforce, we focus on the future—specifically, the next generation entering the job market. The 2024 Youth Employment Program (YEP) was a major success, connecting nearly 5,000 young people aged 14–24 with meaningful work experiences across Tennessee. We sit down with Cortney Richardson from Peer Power in Memphis, who shares how YEP participants gained hands-on experience in diverse fields ranging from law offices to construction sites. Then, we hear from Chris Trull of Buffalo River Resort, who highlights how YEP boosted participants’ confidence and showed the impact of supporting youth employment in rural communities. Finally, we recognize National Skilled Trades Day with Kevin Harrison, Vice President of TCAT Nashville. Kevin talks about how careers in the skilled trades offer affordable, debt-free pathways to success and are a smart choice for anyone entering the workforce. Tune in for an inspiring look at how Tennessee is investing in its young workers and building a stronger workforce for tomorrow.

This month on State of the Workforce, we spotlight the skilled trades industry in Tennessee and the growing demand for trade professionals.

We sit down with Steve Van De Voorde, Board President of Go Build Tennessee, to discuss the urgent need for skilled workers and how apprenticeships are helping to close the workforce gap.

Next, we hear from Clay Crownover of Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Tennessee, who shares how making the switch from a desk job to a hands-on trade career is easier than many think.

Finally, Leslie Gower from Associated Contractors of East Tennessee introduces us to the Be Pro Be Proud trailer—an interactive experience that gives middle school students a firsthand look at careers in the skilled trades.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on how Tennessee is building a stronger workforce through education, training, and opportunity!

In this episode, we explore how new partnerships are reshaping workforce development in Tennessee. In Nashville, the American Job Center has relocated to Nashville State Community College's East Davidson campus, creating a co-located hub for education and employment services. We sit down with Dr. Shanna Jackson, President of Nashville State, and Workforce Essentials’ Executive Director Marla Rye to discuss the impact of this collaboration.

Meanwhile, in Memphis, the American Job Center has moved to Midtown’s Crosstown Concourse to better serve the community. We speak with Director Sarita Allen about the benefits of the new location and what it means for job seekers and employers.

From the vibrant energy of Beale Street in Memphis to the high-speed excitement of the Bristol Motor Speedway, tourism plays a vital role in Tennessee’s economy. Host Chris Cannon sits down with Tourism Development Commissioner Mark Ezell and Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association CEO & President Sara Beth Urban to explore how sales tax revenue from visitors is reinvested into communities—creating jobs, increasing wages, and expanding the state’s tax base. They also discuss the rewarding career paths available in tourism and hospitality. Finally, we travel to Gatlinburg, where The Greystone Lodge on the River General Manager Jackie Leatherwood shares insights on hiring in the hospitality industry and building a strong workforce for the future.