Building Futures: Inside the Residential Construction Academy
In Episode 72, we explore what happens when community, industry, and education come together to build something real? On this episode of Innovation Unplugged, host Houston Blackwood sits down with Joe Johnson of Wallace Community College to talk about the Residential Construction Academy—a program that’s not just building houses, but building futures.From the origins of the academy to powerful stories of industry partnerships and student success, you’ll hear how employers like Cox Pools and Century 21 are helping transform classrooms into career pathways. Plus, Joe shares what’s next—including new trades on the horizon and how you can get involved.If you care about the future of workforce development—or just love a good story about students turning skills into opportunity—this episode is for you.
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Bridging Growth: Workforce and Economic Development in Alabama
In Episode 71, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier sit down with Melody Whitten, Chief Economic Development Officer for the Alabama Community College System, for a deep dive into the connection between workforce training and economic growth.Melody shares how her role is designed to bridge the gap between Alabama’s community colleges and industry needs. She highlights how collaboration with economic developers, businesses, and Skills for Success is creating statewide solutions that address real workforce demands.
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Driven to Succeed: A Journey Towards A CDL
In Episode 70, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier talk with Trinity Howard, a Trenholm State Community College student who faced challenges on his path to earning a CDL but never gave up.With encouragement from his family and the dedicated support of Trenholm’s instructors, Trinity pushed through a demanding schedule, built his confidence, and ultimately earned his Class A CDL.From perseverance to purpose, Trinity’s story reflects the heart of Skills for Success and Alabama’s community colleges, showing how students gain the skills, support, and second chances they need to achieve their goals.
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Meet the Champion: Jackson Baker
In Episode 69, Career Readiness team members Matt Heaton and Tom Chappell take the host seat to chat with Jackson Baker, a senior at Hillcrest High School and Alabama’s first-ever SkillsUSA Heavy Equipment Operation State Champion.Jackson shares how he was introduced to heavy equipment, how he prepared for competition in just two weeks, and what it was like to win the state title and compete on the national stage. He also explains how learning the components of machinery and key safety procedures through Skills for Success courses made all the difference.From working a summer job to planning his next steps at Shelton State, Jackson reflects on the power of hands-on learning, safety training, and mentorship. Whether you’re an educator, student, or industry partner, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when career training starts early and meets students where they are.
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Bridging the Gap: Adult Education & Workforce Pathways
In Episode 68, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier talk with David Walters, Vice Chancellor of Adult Education and Correctional Education for the Alabama Community College System to discuss the vital role of adult education in Alabama’s workforce development.David shares how programs like the GED, High School Diploma Option Program, and digital literacy certifications are creating new opportunities for adult learners across the state. From improving economic outcomes to supporting justice-involved individuals, this conversation dives into how education and workforce training go hand-in-hand to change lives and build stronger communities.If you're interested in how seamless educational pathways, practical skill-building, and collaboration are shaping Alabama’s workforce, this episode is for you.
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