In this episode we talk with leaders from Mason Construction—Le Short, Kyle Kibodeaux, and Butch Hart—about in-demand careers like Hydro Excavation Operators and Project Managers, their Craft Training Program, partnerships with Lamar University and Texas A&M University, and their strong support for workforce development in Southeast Texas. Career pathways and the importance of raising awareness about construction careers within the education system are also discussed. Visit https://www.mason...
May 30, 2025•46 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Thomas Johnson, outgoing president of Lamar State College Orange, and Dr. Wendy Elmore, incoming president and current Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. Dr. Johnson reflects on his impactful seven-year tenure—marked by record enrollment, 40+ new vocational programs, and national recognition for student success—as he prepares for retirement. Dr. Elmore shares her vision for the future, including expanding workforce-aligned ...
Apr 29, 2025•32 min
Lamar Institute of Technology’s (LIT) Fire Academy is shaping the next generation of firefighters through hands-on training, industry certification prep, and real-world simulations. In the latest episode of the Southeast Texas Works! podcast, we sit down with John Randall, Coordinator of Fire Protection Technology at LIT, to discuss the path to becoming a firefighter, salary expectations, and the growing demand for professionals in the field. He also highlights the importance of mental resilienc...
Mar 26, 2025•29 min
In this episode, we go beyond the thrift store and explore how Goodwill Industries of Southeast Texas & Southwest Louisiana is transforming lives through workforce development. Michelle Richer-Mengerink, Vice President of Mission Services, shares how Goodwill provides job training, career services, digital skills education, and financial empowerment programs to help individuals achieve long-term success. Tune in to learn how Goodwill is breaking barriers to employment and creating opportunit...
Feb 27, 2025•21 min
Tune in for a conversation with Aaron Demerson, president and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation, as he discusses how Texas maintains its position as a top business destination. Mr. Demerson explains how the organization markets Texas both domestically and internationally, emphasizing the state's business-friendly climate and workforce development initiatives. He also highlights the critical partnership between economic development, workforce training, and education, which he call...
Jan 29, 2025•27 min
Join us as we welcome Kelly Krick, Union Representative at Seafarers International Union of North America (SIU), to discuss the vital role of the Merchant Marine and the career pathways it offers. In this episode, we explore the process of becoming a Merchant Mariner, key certifications, and training opportunities. Discover insights into wages, job stability, industry growth, and how SIU supports mariners in navigating an ever-evolving maritime industry. Whether you're considering a maritime car...
Dec 11, 2024•28 min
We sit down with Charlie Foxworth, Broker/Owner of REMAX ONE and past president of the Beaumont Board of Realtors, to discuss the current state of the real estate market in Southeast Texas. Charlie shares valuable insights on housing trends, market challenges, and the impact of large-scale industrial projects on local real estate. We also dive into real estate career opportunities, how to get started as an agent, and what young people should focus on when entering the industry. Don’t miss this c...
Nov 03, 2024•40 min
We speak with Gavin Jones, Regional Director of the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC), about the growing opportunities in semiconductor manufacturing in Southeast Texas. Gavin explains how TMAC is offering virtual reality-based training to prepare workers for a field poised for growth as manufacturers expand into the region. We also explore how AI is transforming the manufacturing industry, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses and the workforce. For more informa...
Oct 08, 2024•28 min
Tune in for an interview with Casey Sullivan-Flood, Recruiter for Acadian Ambulance, as she provides an in-depth look at careers in emergency medical services. Casey shares her journey from paramedic to recruiter and offers valuable insights into the roles of EMTs and paramedics. She discusses Acadian's training programs, including their National EMS Academy, and describes the day-to-day life, challenges, and rewards of working in EMS. The conversation covers a range of topics, from salary and c...
Sep 22, 2024•32 min
In this episode, we sit down with Kay Decuir, the Executive Director of Nederland Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Kay provides a comprehensive overview of her role and the EDC's mission in fostering economic growth in Nederland, Texas. She also discusses the city's strategic location, its robust infrastructure including ports and transportation networks, and the ongoing major projects that are shaping the local economy. Discover the unique advantages Nederland offers to businesses, the c...
Sep 08, 2024•29 min
Jon Davis, COO, and Jacquetta Alleman, Director of Marketing, at H.B. Neild Construction join the show to talk about the company's history, in-demand jobs, and career pathways in the Southeast Texas construction industry. Learn about the skills needed, opportunities for growth, and future trends shaping the field. The company's new Orange location is also discussed. For more information about careers at H.B. Neild Construction, visit https://hbneild.com/careers/ ....
Aug 21, 2024•37 min
This episode features an interview with Robert Grimm, Emergency Management Coordinator for Jefferson County, Texas. Robert discusses his role in preparing for and responding to various emergencies, with a focus on hurricane preparedness. He explains the steps taken by the county when a hurricane is approaching, including evacuation procedures, resource staging, and damage assessment. He also touches on other emergency scenarios like industrial incidents and mass casualty events. The conversation...
Jul 29, 2024•27 min
This episode features a conversation with Ana Pereda, Executive Director of Workforce at Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT). Ana discusses her role in managing and developing LIT's non-credit training programs, emphasizing their responsiveness to community workforce needs. She also highlights innovative approaches such as integrating English as a Second Language (ESL) components with technical training, and details various in-demand programs including CDL training, appliance repair, and leaders...
Jul 02, 2024•22 min
In this episode of the Southeast Texas Works podcast, we speak with Carrie Phillips, plant manager at the Chevron Phillips Chemical Orange plant. Carrie shares her unique journey to becoming a plant manager, the importance of mentorship, and her day-to-day responsibilities in ensuring the safety of her team and the community while producing high-quality plastic products. She discusses the challenges and rewards of her role, the jobs in high demand within the petrochemical industry, and her advic...
Jun 17, 2024•27 min
This episode features a conversation with Paul Swetish, Fire Chief, and Brian McDonald, CEO and President of Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC). They discuss the unique aspects of industrial firefighting and how RTFC, founded in 1948 in response to the deadly Texas City industrial fire, has become the largest non-profit industrial firefighting organization in the U.S. Chief Swetish outlines the career pathway and rigorous training to become an RTFC firefighter and reveals RTFC's specialized e...
May 17, 2024•38 min
Megan Romero Layne, Executive Director of the Orange County Economic Development Corporation, joins the podcast during Economic Development Week for an insightful discussion on the multifaceted role of economic development in driving growth, creating opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life in Orange County. Megan shares her expertise on attracting major projects like the Golden Triangle Polymers facility, fostering strategic partnerships, developing a skilled workforce, and improving qu...
May 06, 2024•41 min
Tune in for a conversation with Dana Espinal, Director of the Lamar State College Port Arthur Small Business Development Center (SBDC). With over 30 years of experience as a small business owner and trusted advisor, Dana shares her wealth of knowledge on how the SBDC supports entrepreneurs and small businesses in Southeast Texas. From one-on-one consulting and training programs to navigating SBA loans and certifications, Dana provides invaluable insights on the challenges and opportunities facin...
Apr 15, 2024•47 min
Join Dr. Johanna Boult, Department Chair, and Chelsea Lyles, Director of SLP Clinical Services in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences at Lamar University, as they discuss the diverse career opportunities available in speech-language pathology and audiology. Gain valuable insights into the training programs offered and learn how they can prepare you for a rewarding career in speech and hearing sciences. Whether you're considering these professions or seeking to advance your current care...
Apr 01, 2024•29 min
Join us as we sit down with Sgt. Jeremy Kempt, a dedicated Career Counselor for the Texas Army National Guard. From discussing the recruitment process to understanding the Guard's pivotal role in disaster response, Sgt. Kempt sheds light on the diverse array of careers within the Guard and shares insights into his recent participation in the Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Youth Career Expo. Tune in as we uncover the opportunities, challenges, and invaluable experiences within the Texas Army...
Mar 04, 2024•30 min
Beaumont City Manager Kenneth Williams shares the dynamic vision for downtown Beaumont, discussing how innovative projects like a food truck park and river walk could reshape the city's landscape while fostering economic growth and community vibrancy. Also, learn about collaborative efforts addressing pressing workforce challenges and ensuring a skilled workforce. For more information about the Downtown Plan, visit https://beaumontvision2035.com , and for more about the city of Beaumont, visit w...
Feb 15, 2024•31 min
We sit down with Paul Blackburn, Customer Service Manager at Entergy Texas, and discover the diverse career opportunities within the energy sector. From utility line workers to customer service roles, learn about the pathways to pursue these rewarding careers. Also, Paul shares insights into Entergy Texas' resilient response to hurricanes, freezing temperatures, and other challenging weather conditions. Explore how Entergy Texas’ commitment to community extends beyond power supply, as they play ...
Jan 23, 2024•50 min
Explore the dynamic world of engineering excellence in Southeast Texas with Dr. Brian Craig, the Dean of the College of Engineering at Lamar University. In this episode, discover diverse career pathways to becoming an engineer, gain insights into the pivotal role of education, and hear inspiring stories of success. Join us as we delve into the latest technological advancements and navigate the thriving hub of engineering innovation in Southeast Texas. For more information visit https://www.lamar...
Jan 10, 2024•35 min
In this episode of Southeast Texas Works, Captain Andrew Guidry from the Sabine Pilots Association provides insights into maritime careers, detailing training, and the pivotal role of marine pilots in ensuring safe navigation of commerce through the Sabine Neches Waterway. Captain Guidry highlights the symbiotic relationship between the maritime industry and the Southeast Texas economy, especially its influence on the petrochemical sector. For more information on the Sabine Pilots Association vi...
Dec 03, 2023•24 min
This episode explores the importance of skilled trades and craft training for the local Southeast Texas economy. Tune in to learn about the various training programs offered by ABC Southeast Texas to fill high-demand jobs like electrical, instrumentation, welding, and more. You'll also gain insight into how ABC partners with industry to keep training aligned with the latest technology and safety standards and the various career pathways in the skilled trades as an alternative option to a 4-year ...
Nov 20, 2023•37 min
From the "Best of" Southeast Texas Works! Jo Ikard, District Supervisor - Gulf Coast, Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), joins this SPECIAL EPISODE for VETERANS, ahead of Veterans Day. Ms. Ikard, a USMC vet, talks about how the TVC helps veterans transition from military to civilian life. Website: www.tvc.texas.gov
Nov 02, 2023•26 min
This episode highlights the Golden Triangle Polymers project, a new multi-billion dollar joint venture between Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem) and QatarEnergy being built in Orange, Texas. Heather Betancourth from Chevron Phillips Chemical reveals details about the project and its Local First initiative, which aims to prioritize hiring local talent and sourcing local vendors and suppliers. Heather highlights the partnership with Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas on the employment side throu...
Oct 16, 2023•31 min
In this episode, you'll get an inside look at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System. Tune in to hear details about CHRISTUS' teacher externships, and the range of healthcare professions beyond just doctors and nurses. Discover how the pandemic affected hospital staff and what CHRISTUS does to retain employees. Michelle Hammerly, Director of Education, and Jennifer Strope, Director of HR Strategy at CHRISTUS, reveal the massive growth, diverse opportunities, and technology advancements happening...
Oct 02, 2023•40 min
Two rising workforce development stars share their journey from Lamar University to the Southeast Texas Workforce Board. They also reveal their top strategies for choosing a career path, maximizing your college experience, and launching a rewarding career in workforce development. Tune in to hear from Alexis Miller, outreach liaison, and Caden Moran, Workforce and Labor Market Analyst, both of Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas. For more information on Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas visit ...
Sep 20, 2023•34 min
Tune in for a conversation with Roy West, Mayor of Beaumont, as Mayor West shares his personal and professional journey and reveals insights about the future of workforce development in Beaumont. Mayor West shares some of the unique benefits of Beaumont, including its strategic location and proximity to nature. He also reveals how his vision for Beaumont extends beyond its geographic advantages, how the city can be a pivotal player in the global economy, and plans for community engagement and de...
Sep 05, 2023•44 min
Stan Odenthal, Workforce Development Strategist with the Odenthal Group, joins the show to talk about the upcoming Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas Industry Forums. Stan discusses the importance of the forums as an opportunity for employers to share their workforce needs and concerns and also hear updates from industry leaders on important topics affecting them. The forum schedule is as follows: Transportation on 10/31 at 1 p.m;. https://bit.ly/3YNf07l Healthcare on 10/10 at 1 p.m.: https:// ...
Aug 21, 2023•34 min
