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State of the Workforce

State of the Workforce

By: TN Dept. of Labor & Workforce
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 State of the Workforce takes an in-depth look at the many services each division within the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development offers and how they each work towards creating jobs or a safe work environment for Tennesseans. From American Job Centers to Tennessee OSHA and the state's Elevator Unit, the Department provides citizens with diverse services. Each month, guests will discuss these services and how they impact the lives of tens of thousands daily.Copyright TN Dept. of Labor & Workforce Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Lipscomb University

    Lipscomb University
    Jun 27 2025
    Workforce Focus: Building Tennessee's Early Childhood Education Pipeline In this episode of State of the Workforce, we shine a spotlight on early childhood education and the growing need for qualified teachers across Tennessee. Dr. Leslie Cowell, Dean of the College of Education at Lipscomb University, and Melanie Shinbaum from the Nashville Early Education Coalition join us to discuss the urgent demand for educators serving children ages 0-5. Dr. Cowell returns later in the episode alongside Angela Goddard of the Joe C. Davis Foundation to explore how teacher apprenticeships at Lipscomb are opening doors for aspiring educators. Finally, we believe everyone who wants to work in Tennessee should have that opportunity. Misty Vetter Parsley and Becky Sullivan from the Lipscomb IDEAL Program share how they’re preparing individuals with developmental disabilities for meaningful employment and greater independence.
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    22 mins
  • ProStart

    ProStart
    May 30 2025
    In this episode, we dive into the world of culinary arts and hospitality through the lens of ProStart. We sit down with Brittany Barragan from the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association and Chef Lyndsey Weatherford of Nolensville High School to explore how ProStart allows students to explore real-world careers in the hospitality industry.

    Then, it's off to the kitchen with the State Culinary Champions from Blackman High School in Rutherford County as they showcase the award-winning dishes that earned them the top title.

    Finally, we catch up with the Management Competition State Champions, Senior Audrey Mangrum and Junior Evan Tracey from Nolensville High School, to learn about their winning restaurant concept, marketing strategy, and business plan.

    From sizzling kitchens to boardroom pitches, this episode highlights the passion, skill, and career potential.
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    23 mins
  • YEP (Youth Employment Program)

    YEP (Youth Employment Program)
    Apr 25 2025
    In this month’s episode of State of the Workforce, we focus on the future—specifically, the next generation entering the job market. The 2024 Youth Employment Program (YEP) was a major success, connecting nearly 5,000 young people aged 14–24 with meaningful work experiences across Tennessee. We sit down with Cortney Richardson from Peer Power in Memphis, who shares how YEP participants gained hands-on experience in diverse fields ranging from law offices to construction sites. Then, we hear from Chris Trull of Buffalo River Resort, who highlights how YEP boosted participants’ confidence and showed the impact of supporting youth employment in rural communities. Finally, we recognize National Skilled Trades Day with Kevin Harrison, Vice President of TCAT Nashville. Kevin talks about how careers in the skilled trades offer affordable, debt-free pathways to success and are a smart choice for anyone entering the workforce. Tune in for an inspiring look at how Tennessee is investing in its young workers and building a stronger workforce for tomorrow.
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    23 mins

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