The Builders' Table

In this episode of The Builders’ Table, Brent Bean, President of Build Mississippi, discusses how the organization is bridging the gap between education and industry. By supporting CTE programs, working closely with instructors and partnering with contractors, Build Mississippi is helping create a more seamless transition from classroom to career.

From paid training programs to direct job placement opportunities, Brent shares how their efforts are making it easier for individuals to enter and succeed in the construction workforce.

Listen now to discover how Build Mississippi is transforming workforce development at the state level.

Career and Technical Education is shaping the future workforce. How do we ensure it continues to grow and evolve?

In this episode of The Builders’ Table, Michael Connet, Associate Deputy Executive Director – Outreach & Partnerships of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), shares how CTE has developed over the past century and the role it plays in preparing students for successful careers. ACTE is focused on advancing high-quality programs that combine technical skills, employability skills and critical thinking.

From increasing student participation to strengthening connections between education and industry, Michael discusses the challenges and opportunities facing CTE today.

Listen now to learn how collaboration between educators, employers and organizations is helping build a stronger talent pipeline.

Across the U.S., millions of skilled workers are held back—not by ability, but by language barriers.

In this episode of The Builders’ Table, Katie Brown, Founder and Chief Education Officer of EnGen, discusses how workforce-aligned English instruction is helping workers facing English language barriers strengthen their communication skills and thrive—especially in high-demand industries like construction. Through personalized, industry-specific training, EnGen helps learners build the tools needed to grow, advance and perform with confidence on the job.

Katie also shares how partnerships with employers, educators and organizations are creating new pathways for career growth and helping unlock talent that’s often hidden in plain sight.

Listen now to discover how English upskilling is strengthening the workforce and expanding opportunity.

The transition from military to civilian life isn’t always straightforward—especially when it comes to building a long-term career.

In this episode of The Builders’ Table, Elizabeth O’Brien and Stefanie Watson share how Hiring Our Heroes is helping veterans and military spouses navigate that journey. Through initiatives like the Skilled Trades Academy, they’re connecting participants with training, employers and lasting career opportunities in the skilled trades.

Listen now to learn how this growing ecosystem is supporting those who’ve served and meeting today’s workforce demands.

From a 30-year prison sentence to teaching skilled trades and helping others rebuild their lives.

In this episode of The Builders’ Table, Ty Wade shares his powerful journey and how New Freedom is helping individuals reenter society through education, mentorship and careers in the skilled trades.

Listen now to learn how second-chance opportunities are transforming lives.