E47: From Steel to Silicon: Pittsburgh's Economic Evolution with Deputy Chief of Staff Felicity Williams
Release Date: 01/31/2025
E62: Reaching Jobseekers Where They Are: Innovation in Workforce Tech
KRA's The Hub
Tune in to this episode as we explore how workforce organizations are transforming the way they engage jobseekers, using texting and mobile tools to meet people where they are. Max Schelkopf from Engage by Cell breaks down how their platform helps streamline communication, increase accessibility, and close the digital divide. From addressing the skill gap to integrating AI for resume support and interview prep, you'll discover how human-centered technology is speeding up the path to employment and reshaping the future of workforce development.
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E61: Getting to Know KRA: People and Principles
KRA's The Hub
Tune in to this episode of The Hub for the first in our new series, Getting to Know KRA. Host Jonathan Overall kicks things off with an inspiring conversation on people and principles, joined by Kalandria Thompson, People and Culture Director, and Ryan Rand, Engagement & Development Specialist. Together, they explore how KRA’s values—knowledge, responsibility, and achievement—shape a thriving, people-centered workplace culture. You’ll learn about KRA’s holistic approach to employee development, innovative wellness initiatives, and the leadership programs that are...
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E60: Beyond the Numbers: Human-Centered Workforce Solutions
KRA's The Hub
In this episode of KRA's The Hub podcast, recorded live at the JFF Jobs for the Future Conference, Kim Tesch Vaught, mental health coach and business development manager, explores the conference's theme of "daring to be brave" in workforce development. Drawing from her experience as a mental health coach and workforce professional, she discusses reimagining career services through human connection, mental resilience, and personalized support. Kim shares insights on leveraging AI, supporting entrepreneurship, and creating more flexible workforce systems that truly understand job seekers' unique...
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E59: Hiring Reimagined: Voice Technology and the Fight Against Turnover
KRA's The Hub
In this episode, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Rich Simmerman, co-founder of Cantaloupe AI, at the JFF Horizons Summit in New Orleans to tackle a pressing challenge in the hospitality industry: outdated, resume-driven hiring that fails both employers and job seekers. Drawing from Rich’s own journey—from managing a coffee shop in Carrollton to pioneering voice interview technology—Cantaloupe AI is replacing traditional job applications with conversational voice interviews. This hands-on, candidate-first approach helps employers screen every applicant, reduce early quits by nearly...
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E58: Partnering for Progress: How KRA and Malcolm X College Empower Learners
KRA's The Hub
In this episode, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Dean Barbara Goodall Meschino, MSW, LSW, Dean of the West Side Learning Center at Malcolm X College, City Colleges of Chicago, to explore how strategic partnerships between KRA, the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, and community colleges are revolutionizing workforce development in Chicago. Dean Meschino shares her journey from social work to higher education leadership and discusses how real-world, hands-on training programs—like CNA, medical assisting, and specialized digital simulations—are boosting access, equity, and economic...
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E57: From the Ground Up: Redefining Workforce Development
KRA's The Hub
Discover how workforce development is being redefined from the ground up in this episode of KRA’s The Hub. Claudia Cattouse-Regalado, Director of Relationship Management at the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, shares her journey from frontline service roles to executive leadership and offers a powerful vision for workforce as a system of mentorship, preparation, and economic transformation. You’ll hear how building shared language, aligning service delivery, and elevating real client stories can drive collective impact. Claudia also discusses professional development, leadership...
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E56: Building Connections: Virginia’s First Workforce Development Conference
KRA's The Hub
In this episode, you’ll get an inside look at the inaugural Virginia Workforce Symposium—a first-of-its-kind event bringing together workforce professionals from across the Commonwealth. You’ll hear how the idea for the symposium came to life, what made it a sold-out success, and why collaboration across regions and roles is critical to the future of workforce development. From keynote speakers to breakout sessions on data, AI, and cross-agency partnerships, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes preview of the event’s goals, challenges, and long-term vision. KRA is proud to be a...
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E55: Balancing Passion, Purpose & Policy: With Carrie Amann
KRA's The Hub
In this special Women’s History Month episode, we continue with a compelling conversation featuring Carrie Amann, Executive Director of the PA Workforce Development Association. Carrie shares her journey from local workforce boards to policy work in the Governor’s office, offering thoughtful reflections on leadership, authenticity, and resilience. She discusses the importance of staying grounded through personal growth, self-awareness, and developing an inner compass—especially in times of uncertainty. Whether you're exploring leadership or looking to stay inspired in your...
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E54: Leading with Compassion: JaVette Pettaway's Workforce Development Journey
KRA's The Hub
In this special Women's History Month episode, host Jonathan Overall speaks with JaVette Pettaway, Program Director of KRA's Rancho Dominguez AJCC. JaVette shares her inspiring career journey from probation counseling to workforce development, highlighting her leadership philosophy centered on compassion, integrity, and accountability. She discusses KRA's recent initiative operating the Rancho Dominguez America's Job Center of California (AJCC), which aims to become the premier employment resource in the region by offering workshops, job fairs, and customized training in high-growth industries...
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E53: Workforce Leadership in Motion: Insights from NAWDP CEO Melissa Robbins
KRA's The Hub
In this special Women's History Month episode, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Melissa Robbins, CEO of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), to explore her inspiring journey from local-level fiscal assistant to national leader. Melissa shares how mentorship, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning shaped her path, and offers candid insights on leadership, work-life balance, and empowering the next generation of women in workforce development. Tune in for a compelling conversation about the evolving world of work, the power of preparation, and...
info_outlineThis episode features an interview with Felicity Williams, the deputy chief of staff for the mayor's office of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As the first black woman to hold this position, Felicity shares her journey from law school to local politics, driven by her commitment to racial justice and community development. The conversation delves into Pittsburgh's transformation from a steel industry hub to a center for technology, healthcare, and clean energy, while addressing the challenges of creating inclusive economic growth. Tune in to hear about key initiatives including the city's innovative Workforce Equity Agreement, strategies for engaging young and disadvantaged workers, and the Pittsburgh Prosperity Project.