Innovation Unplugged

In Episode 45, “Machinery and Mentorship: Shaping Student Success with Shelton State Heavy Equipment Instructors”, host Brandi Merrill sits down with Ken Richardson and Sherman Lee, two exceptional heavy equipment instructors from Shelton State Community College. Through their stories, we dive into their own unique backgrounds and discuss the profound lessons they've learned along the way. With a shared passion for teaching, Ken and Sherman have impacted the lives of students ranging from high schoolers exploring career options to adults seeking new opportunities in the heavy equipment and construction industries. As these professionals share their teaching methods, we explore how they’ve adapted to new technologies and evolved the skills-based training process to meet industry needs. Discover the growing demand for skilled heavy equipment operators and how Ken and Sherman’s hands-on training approach has fostered success for their students. Whether you’re an aspiring equipment operator, training instructor, or interested in understanding heavy equipment within workforce development, this episode highlights the critical role of mentorship and training that you’ll want to hear!

In Episode 44, “Healthcare Education: Exploring Career Pathways in Alabama”, hosts Houston Blackwood and Julie Frizzell explore the innovative workforce development initiatives shaping Alabama's healthcare landscape with the Dean of Health Sciences at Calhoun Community College. From his journey in manufacturing to healthcare education, Kenneth shares insights on addressing critical workforce shortages, nursing apprenticeships and dual enrollment pathways for high school students.Discover the Skills for Success Nursing Support Technician (NST) course that is designed to streamline patient care training, and its integration with traditional CNA programs to offer students a versatile set of credentials. This initiative also provides another valuable pathway for students to enter the healthcare field and for healthcare employers to find trained workers.This episode offers a deep dive into Alabama's healthcare workforce training efforts and highlights the collaboration between CTE leaders and healthcare professionals. Tune in to hear how the ACCS is pioneering healthcare education and shaping the future of the state’s healthcare workforce, preparing the next generation of skilled professionals!  

 In Episode 43, “Bridging The Gap: Empowering Local Leaders and Strengthening Communities with Mary Jackson” podcast hosts Kailah Dozier and Brandi Merrill dive deep into local government and community development with the Director of Community and Professional Development at the Alabama League of Municipalities. Mary shares her journey from Colorado to Alabama, discussing her background as a city clerk and her dedication to empowering local leaders. Learn about the League’s initiatives and the partnership between the League and the Innovation Center to create a Skills for Success course specifically tailored for mayors and city officials that focuses on the training needed to lead a community forward.Discover how government agencies and community partners can work together to enhance cities and towns and explore innovative solutions to educate the youth and local leadership to cultivate the next generation of civic-minded changemakers. Whether you're a local official, community advocate, or simply interested in government, this episode offers a unique look at how Alabama’s communities are growing and thriving!

In Episode 42, “Crafting Content: Behind the Scenes Collaboration with Seed Creative,” podcast hosts Brandi Merrill and Julie Frizzell welcome two creative minds behind the compelling content for Skills for Success and the ACCS Innovation Center.Join George Edmondson, founder of Seed Creative, and team member Nick Golden as they share their unique backgrounds and journeys to Seed Creative. They discuss the evolution of their partnership with the ACCS Innovation Center over the past two years, driven by a shared mission to produce videos that truly make an impact. Listen in as they unveil their innovative approach to content creation and the continuous improvement processes that drive their work. Discover the behind-the-scenes magic that has led to a remarkable number of Skills for Success courses delivered and students trained, highlighting the power of collaboration, storytelling, and creativity.Don’t miss this enlightening episode, filled with heartfelt and fun stories, dynamic teamwork, and the transformative potential of pursuing one's passion. Tune in and be inspired by the incredible impact of creativity and dedication!