Sal is joined by Cathy Awwad, President & CEO of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), to explore what it takes to build a future-ready workforce across 41 diverse communities. From addressing critical skills gaps in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and healthcare to partnering with local businesses to align training with real-world demands, Cathy shares how NRWIB goes beyond job placement to support long-term career growth. They dive into the importance of soft skills, leadership development, and creating career pathways, even in industries without clear ladders, while also tackling mindset shifts that help individuals grow into meaningful roles. With personal stories, practical strategies, and a few fun moments along the way, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone working to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.