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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
  • TNWorks

    TNWorks
    Nov 3 2025
    (00:00:00) TNWorks - Commissioner Deniece Thomas and Deputy Governor Stuart McWhorter
    (00:16:19) TNWorks - Dr. Steven Gentile and Dr. Jeff Sisk

    In this episode, we explore a new way of building business in Tennessee through TNWorks, a groundbreaking initiative that unites six state agencies (Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development,Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, Tennessee Board of Regents, Tennessee Higher Education Commission, Tennessee Department of Human Services, and the Tennessee Department of Education) to strengthen the state’s workforce and economy. Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Deniece Thomas and Deputy Governor & Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter share how this collaborative effort will help businesses thrive across the state. Later, we hear from Tennessee Higher Education Commission Executive Director Dr. Steven Gentile and Tennessee Board of Regents Executive Director Dr. Jeff Sisk, who discuss the vital education component of TNWorks and how it equips Tennesseans with the skills needed for long-term success.
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    23 mins
  • Benefits cliff with Martha O'Brien Center

    Benefits cliff with Martha O'Brien Center
    Oct 2 2025
    In this month’s episode, we sit down with Timberly Russell from the Martha O'Brien Center in Nashville to explore a critical issue facing many working families: the benefits cliff. This phenomenon occurs when individuals receiving public assistance face a tough choice—accept a raise or promotion and risk losing essential benefits, or turn down career advancement to maintain support. Timberly shares how the Martha O'Brien Center is working to address this issue through advocacy and policy efforts at both the state and federal levels. We also learn more about the Center’s wide range of support services, including adult education, health and wellness programs, and an on-site food bank.
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    21 mins
  • Skills Career Coalition

    Skills Career Coalition
    Aug 28 2025
    (00:00:00) Michael P. Davidson - Skills Career Coalition
    (00:08:07) JJ Owens - Skilled Career Coalition
    (00:16:23) Brian Vaughn - The Sow Project

    In this episode, we sit down with Michael P. Davidson to discuss the urgent demand for skilled workers as the industry faces a wave of retirements. Next, JJ Owens shares strategies for reaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha to inspire the next generation of talent in the skilled trades. We also spotlight Skills Jam, a unique conference where young people experience hands-on opportunities to explore career paths. Finally, we head into the kitchen with The Sow Project, where chef Ben Vaughn highlights culinary apprenticeships in Memphis and the importance of hiring justice-involved individuals.
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    23 mins
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