E52: The Power of Partnership: Collaborative Economic Development in Orange County
Release Date: 05/06/2024
E73: Skills That Pay: Your Pipeline to a High-Demand Career with Local 211
Southeast Texas Works!
Get ready for a deep dive into a high-demand career path, as we sit down with Jeff Broussard, Business Agent/Organizer, and Joseph Karcher, Assistant Coordinator for the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, to explore the Pipefitters Local 211 Registered Apprenticeship Program. We discuss the critical work pipefitters perform across Southeast Texas industries, the key skills needed for success, and how the region's industrial growth is shaping the demand for skilled workers. Our guests walk us through the apprenticeship requirements, the intensive training and classroom...
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E72: Southeast Texas Labor Market Trends: An In-Depth Economic Update
Southeast Texas Works!
Southeast Texas has faced a challenging road since 2020, but the region’s labor market has made a strong comeback. In this episode, Texas Workforce Commission Economist William Lutz provides an in-depth economic update, highlighting the banner year of job growth in 2024, how our unemployment rate has tracked closer to the state average, and why industries like construction and manufacturing continue to drive opportunity in the Golden Triangle. We also explore current hiring trends, wage comparisons, and the outlook for 2025, giving both employers and job seekers valuable insight into where...
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E71: Growing Leaders in Construction: Inside Apache Industrial’s Workforce Development
Southeast Texas Works!
Discover how Apache Industrial is building the future workforce through hands-on training, leadership development, and community outreach. In this episode, Zeke Smith, Director of Leadership & Workforce Development at Apache Industrial, shares how apprenticeships open doors to rewarding careers, why safety is central to the industry, and how programs are empowering youth, women, and veterans to succeed in the trades. Explore the career pathways that turn hard work into opportunity and leadership in one of the nation’s most vital industries.
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E70: Rave Financial Shares Insights on Careers in Finance and Smart Money Management
Southeast Texas Works!
Daniel Marshall and Lori Higgins of Rave Financial share how the credit union is expanding career opportunities in the finance industry while empowering individuals to take control of their money. From the Money Better program that teaches practical budgeting skills, to the Rave Partner Program that helps employers reduce financial stress in the workplace, Rave is shaping a financially stronger Southeast Texas. The conversation also highlights Rave’s outreach to youth—bringing real-world financial lessons into high schools and inspiring future careers at the Workforce Solutions Youth...
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E69: Resumes That Get Noticed: Insider Tips from an HR Pro
Southeast Texas Works!
In this episode of Southeast Texas Works, we sit down with Kevin Cline, a seasoned HR professional from Unique HR, to uncover what really makes a resume and interview stand out. Discover practical tips on avoiding common resume mistakes, how to tailor your application using AI without losing authenticity, and why soft skills like communication, problem solving, and time management are just as important as technical know-how. Kevin also shares advice for job seekers with a criminal background, the importance of professional presentation, and how to follow up after an interview. Whether you’re...
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E68: How Teacher Externships Fuel Student Futures
Southeast Texas Works!
In this episode, we explore how the Southeast Texas Teacher Externship Program connects classrooms to local industries, giving educators firsthand experience inside companies like Valero. By job shadowing professionals across maintenance, safety, engineering, and more, teachers gain valuable insights they can bring back to their students—showing them that rewarding careers exist right in their own community. We also discuss how these partnerships strengthen community ties, challenge outdated perceptions of refinery work, and open doors for young women in STEM and skilled trades. Tune in to...
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E67: Building Careers with Mason Construction
Southeast Texas Works!
In this episode we talk with leaders from Mason Construction—Le Short, Kyle Kibodeaux, and Butch Hart—about in-demand careers like Hydro Excavation Operators and Project Managers, their Craft Training Program, partnerships with Lamar University and Texas A&M University, and their strong support for workforce development in Southeast Texas. Career pathways and the importance of raising awareness about construction careers within the education system are also discussed. Visit for more information.
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E66: Continuing the Climb: Lamar State College Orange's Leadership Shift & Future Focus
Southeast Texas Works!
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Thomas Johnson, outgoing president of Lamar State College Orange, and Dr. Wendy Elmore, incoming president and current Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. Dr. Johnson reflects on his impactful seven-year tenure—marked by record enrollment, 40+ new vocational programs, and national recognition for student success—as he prepares for retirement. Dr. Elmore shares her vision for the future, including expanding workforce-aligned programs, deepening industry partnerships, and continuing to make higher education accessible,...
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E65: Forging Firefighters at Lamar Institute of Technology
Southeast Texas Works!
Lamar Institute of Technology’s (LIT) Fire Academy is shaping the next generation of firefighters through hands-on training, industry certification prep, and real-world simulations. In the latest episode of the Southeast Texas Works! podcast, we sit down with John Randall, Coordinator of Fire Protection Technology at LIT, to discuss the path to becoming a firefighter, salary expectations, and the growing demand for professionals in the field. He also highlights the importance of mental resilience in a career that requires bravery and endurance. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!...
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E64:Beyond the Storefront – How Goodwill Empowers Job Seekers
Southeast Texas Works!
In this episode, we go beyond the thrift store and explore how Goodwill Industries of Southeast Texas & Southwest Louisiana is transforming lives through workforce development. Michelle Richer-Mengerink, Vice President of Mission Services, shares how Goodwill provides job training, career services, digital skills education, and financial empowerment programs to help individuals achieve long-term success. Tune in to learn how Goodwill is breaking barriers to employment and creating opportunities in our community. Michelle also previews upcoming initiatives including a new location in Jasper...
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