On this episode we’re joined by Taj Mecham, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Pathful, where he shares his personal journey from growing up on a farm to becoming a workforce development leader. Taj discusses how early life experiences shaped his passion for helping others and how authentic human connection drives his mission to bridge the talent gap. He and host Wayne Williams discuss the importance of early career awareness for youth, the evolving landscape of workforce education, and practi...
Jul 24, 2025•34 min
On this episode we’re joined by Augie Ghilarducci, Creator and Founder of 2nd Opportunity—a program designed to assist returning citizens in rebounding from major setbacks and starting down a positive path. In this conversation, we learn about Augie’s story, the moments that inspired him to give back to those that need support the most, and how his program is changing lives across the country. Resources: 2ndopp.com The Path Forward Podcast Email 2nd Opportunity...
Jun 20, 2025•26 min
In celebration of ‘Learning at Work Week,’ Host Wayne Williams is joined by Kevin Kenny, Founder and Co-CEO of Level All , to share news regarding our exciting new partnership, how Level All is leveling up the workforce, and how their approach of “knowledge – decision – action” is changing the way learners plan for college and careers.
May 13, 2025•22 min
On this episode, Host Wayne Williams is joined by Alexis Franks, Director of Membership with the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). Together, they share their own workforce development journeys, discuss career pathways within the field, and highlight how NAWDP is supporting professional growth in our community. Listen in to discover the exciting opportunities that exist in workforce development (spoiler: it’s not just jobs that help people get jobs).
Apr 15, 2025•24 min
On this episode we’re joined by Shafer Leadership Academy Executive Director, Mitch Isaacs, to chat about multi-generational teams in the workplace, strategies for leadership, and what it all means in a more digital world of work. We’ll also delve into the varying personalities, strengths, and work styles across generations and why every industry is unique but facing similar challenges.
Mar 10, 2025•25 min
This month we spent time with SCPa Works CEO, Jesse McCree, to discover how technology is being used as a ‘tool for good’ to help drive economic mobility and how AI will improve human connection. In this episode, we’re discussing tech disruption in workforce development to unlock human potential, utilizing technology as a skills-based training platform in the re-entry space, and ROE³: the return on experience, employment, and education.
Feb 09, 2025•22 min
Kicking off the new year, we spent time with Transfr CEO, Bharani Rajakumar, to explore how Transfr is redefining workforce education utilizing virtual reality simulations to master vital workplace skills. In this episode, we’re discussing Transfr’s mission of helping others on a pathway to upward mobility, immersive technology, and workforce development’s natural partnership, and how VR training is preparing career seekers for the jobs of today.
Jan 13, 2025•27 min
Bob Knight, Equus’ Director of Government Relations and Workforce Policy, has joined us for another episode of the 'DC Workforce Update' where we discuss the developmental whirlwind in the reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and what the future may hold post-election as we ask the question, "What happens next?" Stay tuned for future episodes in this series as the workforce development industry undergoes potential changes moving into the new year.
Dec 12, 2024•19 min
Joining us in celebration of National Apprenticeship Week is Lauren Smith, Care Economy Apprenticeship Training Program Specialist with the Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship. In this episode we’re discussing how National Apprenticeship Week is being recognized across the nation, the current growth of programs and what’s expected for the future, and Equus’ recent designation as ‘Apprenticeship Ambassador’ and what it means for those we serve.
Nov 21, 2024•20 min
In this episode, we’re once again joined by Bob Knight, Equus’ Director of Government Relations and Workforce Policy, to discuss continued developments in the reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the state of workforce development during an election period, and what the immediate future may hold for the industry.
Oct 31, 2024•25 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Bob Knight, Equus’ Director of Government Relations and Workforce Policy. This month we’re discussing the reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to include potential adjustments to funding to state and local areas, training for incumbent workers, and work experience for program participants. We’ll be revisiting the DC Workforce Update monthly as the workforce development landscape quickly evolves.
Oct 07, 2024•22 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Executive Director Dr. Mimi Haley and Youth Leader/Staff Member Jaime Jimenez from the National Youth Employment Coalition. The discussion explores policy, narrative change, and collaborative practices in supporting opportunity youth. Our guests share their expertise on how communities can better integrate opportunity youth into the workforce, emphasizing the power of youth voices in shaping their stories. Tune in for a comprehensive look at building inclusive an...
Aug 07, 2024•43 min
In this episode we’re joined by Andy Brooksbank and Brian Hernandez, the Founders and Managing Partners of Phalanx Outreach Solutions. Listen to our discussion of the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change, inspiring engagement and fostering a deeper understanding of the public workforce system.
Feb 22, 2024•33 min
On this episode we’re joined by Tonya Gibson, Regional Director at MedCertify, to chat about their training platform. We unpack the value of the apprenticeship model, collaboration with the public workforce system and creating pathways for individuals from underrepresented communities in demand industries.
Feb 08, 2024•20 min
On this episode we’re joined by Racquel Sevilla, Director of Program Development, Planning & Evaluation for Global Talent Bridge at World Education Services. We discuss how World Education Services’ Gateway Program supports the educational and economic inclusion of immigrants, refugees, and other displaced individuals by facilitating the recognition of educational credentials earned outside the U.S. Racquel shares concrete examples of inclusion efforts across the U.S. and the ways in which e...
Jan 22, 2024•25 min
On this episode, we’re joined by Project Director Priscilla Zuniga and Deputy Project Director Jose Hernandez from Equus’ San Diego Employment Services program. The pair shares their takeaways from the San Diego Military Summit, including how transitioning service members and veterans can navigate the civilian job market, translate leadership and communication skills in the civilian world, and plan for career progression.
Nov 13, 2023•14 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Sterling Barbour, President, and Tova Barbour, CEO, at Revolution National Pest Council. We discuss how the pest control industry is evolving and how registered apprenticeship is opening doors for underrepresented groups, such as veterans, to create career pathways in this field.
Oct 11, 2023•22 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Monique Melchor, Director at work2future in Santa Clara County, California. In an area known for technology, Monique discusses the diverse communities and industries that make up Santa Clara County. Discover how work2future is advancing earn-and-learn models, empowering the next generation and more while situated within one of the world's most innovative hubs.
Jul 26, 2023•19 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Ann Werbach, Strategic Partnership Director, and Mo McKenna, Associate Vice President of Partner Success, at InsideTrack. Equus and InsideTrack are partnering on a new Young Adult Mentoring Pilot that uses an evidence-based mentoring framework delivered by InsideTrack Coaches in four workforce areas. Listen to hear about the value of this coaching model to help participants shape and define their long-term goals, build social capital and navigate the complexity o...
Jul 10, 2023•28 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Lisa Patt McDaniel, CEO of the Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio. In honor of Women’s History Month we tackle topics such as career advancement and real-world networking. Lisa also shares about the catalyst for the Woman at Work Career Accelerator Program, an innovative, cohort-based model implemented to support women disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mar 07, 2023•26 min
In this episode, Equus’ Bob Knight is joined by Clyde McQueen, CEO of the Full Employment Council, Inc. in Greater Kansas City, Missouri. The pair dives into public policy, the complexities of jobs of the future, economic development drivers, and more.
Feb 07, 2023•29 min
In this episode we’re joined by Alyssa Burgess, Associate Director of Career Pathways at the Washington Association for Community Health. Listen to learn how the association is using innovative education and training programs to cultivate an equitable and sustainable community health workforce.
Jan 26, 2023•16 min
On this episode, we’re joined by Vickie Miller, Director and Developer of the Training Assessment and Placement Program (TAPP) in Columbus, Ohio. Listen to hear about the wraparound model TAPP uses for second chance workforce development.
Jan 12, 2023•23 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Panciera, CEO, and Chris Scaffidi, Senior National Account Director, of The Pacific Institute . Listen to hear our discussion about the impact of beliefs and self-efficacy on individual, team and organizational performance and culture.
Jan 05, 2023•33 min
In this episode we sit down with Gris Bailey, President & CEO of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce of Charlotte, during Hispanic Heritage Month. Listen in to learn the innovative ways the Chamber is supporting its membership, including small businesses and college students, to navigate the current labor market and adapt for growth.
Nov 01, 2022•24 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Robert Knight, Director of Government Relations and Workforce Policy at Equus Workforce Solutions, to celebrate Workforce Development Month. Listen for a lively discussion about how the current economic, legislative and political landscapes are impacting the workforce system today and into the future.
Sep 28, 2022•20 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Jill Hendrix, Director of Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning at Gaston College in North Carolina. Listen to learn how this community college team is using the apprenticeship model to meet the needs of students and employers.
Aug 24, 2022•21 min
Listen in to this episode as Mychael Lee, Ph.D, Marketing and Business Development Coordinator is joined by Kathryn Castelloes, Director of ApprenticeshipNC. Mychael and Kathryn sit down to discuss how ApprenticeshipNC is working with employers in North Carolina to provide comprehensive administration and oversight of apprenticeship programs in the state. Kathryn also talks about ApprenticeshipNC’s partner system which helps employers connect with local resources to ensure sustainable talent pip...
Jun 14, 2022•20 min
On this episode, Jâlie Cohen, Group Senior Vice President Human Resources for the Adecco Group Americas joins guest host Equus Vice President of Operations, Nicole Ganier. Jalie shares her insights on what the Adecco group has dubbed “The Great Re-evaluation”. She discusses prominent trends in the values of the current and future workforce including flexibility, wellness, and purpose and shares how companies can work to adapt to those priorities.
May 27, 2022•28 min
On this episode of the Workforce of Action podcast, guest host Rudy Racine, Vice President of Operations for Equus is joined by Cathryn Nacario, CEO of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) San Diego. Rudy and Cathryn discuss how NAMI San Diego is helping employers create a Stigma-Free Work Environment through education and advocacy. Cathryn also shares how the NAMI Clubhouse is helping individuals with mental health concerns on their journey back into the workforce. They also discuss how S...
May 11, 2022•13 min
