In Episode 63, host Matt Heaton sits down with Tom Chappell, Career Readiness Coordinator at the ACCS Innovation Center. Tom shares his unique journey from parks and recreation to becoming a pivotal part of Alabama’s workforce development efforts through Skillsfor Success.He reflects on the behind-the-scenes work of onboarding instructors, building program consistency, and the student success stories that make it all worth it. With a focus on second chances, service, and student growth, this episode highlights the meaningful work driving Skills for Success as it continues to expand across K-12 schools and beyond.
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Patient Ready: Preparing Nurse Support Technicians for Healthcare
In Episode 62, Houston Blackwood is joined by Jesse Gibson, Program Director at Crestwood Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine, for a conversation about how the Skills for Success Nurse Support Technician (NST) course is creating new entry points into the medical field. The course is designed to train individuals to assist nurses and healthcare teams in acute care settings and provide front-line patient support. This episode offers real-world insight on cross-training, supervision, and the qualities healthcare leaders look for in future professionals such as empathy, dedication, and a willingness to learn. See how Skills for Success is preparing the next generation to step into essential roles in hospitals and clinics across the state.
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45:42
Plumbing Pathways: From Apprentice to Master Plumber
In Episode 61, host Houston Blackwood sits down with Frank Catlett of All Star Plumbing for a conversation about career growth, mentorship, and the real-world value of vocational training. Frank shares his journey to becoming a master plumber, now leading teams within a company that employs teams of people. They explore the apprenticeship process, the importance of learning every phase of plumbing, and how patience, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are key to building a long-term career in the trades.Hear how All Star Plumbing supports its employees, from entry-level workers to seasoned professionals and why the plumbing industry continues to offer stable, rewarding, and meaningful career opportunities across Alabama.
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48:29
Skilled Start: High School Students Launching Careers in Heavy Equipment
Skilled Start: High School Students Launching Careers in Heavy EquipmentIn Episode 60, hosts Brandi Merrill and Houston Blackwood are joined by Huntsville City School students and Career Coach Carolyn Wade to discuss how, after completing Skills for Success heavy equipment courses through Calhoun Community College, the students were hired and are now earning up to $25 an hour—all before graduating high school. Hear each student boldly and confidently share their next steps, future plans, and how heavy equipment training has shaped their career paths. The conversation explores how hands-on learning builds confidence, the value of practical skills in today’s workforce, and why more students are choosing trades over traditional college paths, along with what’s in store for the next generation of skilled workers.
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Skilled to Build: Strengthening Alabama’s Trade Workforce
In Episode 59, host Houston Blackwood is joined by Colby Thompson of Thompson Contractors and Kory Boling, Executive Director of the Alabama Home Builders Foundation, to discuss workforce challenges and career opportunities in Alabama’s construction trades. From the need for skilled workers to the value of hands-on training, the conversation explores how Skills for Success, Alabama’s community colleges, and industry partnerships are helping bridge the gap between education, training, and employment. This episode highlights the role of hands-on training and relationship-building in preparing the next generation of tradespeople across the state.
Brasil