“Our Executive Committee plays a crucial role in driving NAWDP’s mission forward,” said Melissa Robbins, Chief Executive Officer for NAWDP. “We are thrilled to welcome these dedicated leaders and look forward to the perspective and expertise they will bring.”

Following vacancies created by the Regional NAWDP Board of Directors election held in January of 2025, four seats on the Executive Committee were filled effective July 1, 2025. The individuals below have been elected by NAWDP’s Board of Directors to serve in the following roles through December 31, 2025:

o   Secretary-Treasurer: Vickie Simmons, ARIZONA@WORK-Southeastern Arizona

o   Member At-Large: Kirkland Murray, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation

o   Member At-Large: Manuel Ugues, Serco of Texas, Inc.

o   Member At-Large: Tami Grant, CWDP, Employment services of Weld County

They will serve alongside the following continuing members of the Executive Committee:

o   Chair: Dana Keller, Gamm, Incorporated

o   Vice Chair: Walter Simmons, Employ Prince George’s

o   Member At-Large: Brenda Motley-Aikens, Ross Innovative Employment Solutions

The Executive Committee provides strategic leadership and timely oversight on behalf of the Board of Directors between full board meetings. It ensures continuity in governance, advances NAWDP’s mission, and supports informed decision-making to guide the organization’s operations and priorities.

NAWDP’s Board of Directors represents an extensive community of more than 5,500 workforce development professionals from across the nation. For more information about NAWDP’s programs, Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) certification, and membership, visit www.nawdp.org.

About NAWDP

NAWDP provides the education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive in the workforce development industry as thought leaders and innovators. As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry.

The program will provide a dedicated space for new workforce professionals to expand their knowledge, boost confidence, build a network, and strengthen their commitment to a career in workforce development. 

Through intentional peer connections, mentorship, and targeted professional development, cohort members will: 

• Deepen their understanding of the workforce development system
• Share best practices and innovative ideas
• Tackle common challenges with support
• Explore diverse career paths in workforce development
• Cultivate lasting professional connections with peers, mentors, and industry leaders

Cohort members will participate in monthly engagements, complete a capstone project, and receive a Certificate of Completion, an assigned industry mentor, and a resource toolkit. 

If you are new to workforce development and you're looking for a space to connect and grow, start your journey with a community of like-minded professionals committed to learning, growing, and connecting. 

Get more information about the cohort at https://www.nawdp.org/NewProfessionalsCohort

NAWDP is a longtime promoter of registered apprenticeships as demonstrated in past partnerships in the U.S. Department of Labor's Registered Apprenticeship Center of Excellence: Strategic Partnerships and Strategic Alignment, and NAWDP's development of the Registered Apprenticeship Standards for the occupation of Workforce Development Professional. 

The NIWL is a national hub funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Apprenticeship Builds America grant (ABA2), and is part of a broad, bipartisan commitment to expand apprenticeship as a workforce solution. Review our NIWL fact sheet for more information about this effort. 

“The Board of Directors are an integral part of NAWDP’s strategic planning,” said Melissa Robbins, Chief Executive Officer for NAWDP. “We are grateful for their insight and their commitment to advancing workforce development as we strive to serve workforce development professionals across the nation.”

The individuals below have been elected by NAWDP’s membership to represent the following regions:

Region 1 (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virgin Islands)

Sandy Mackie Chief Program Officer, Capital Workforce Partners

Region 2 (Washington, D.C., Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia)

Kirkland Murray PCEO, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation

Region 3 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee)

Rebecca Miller Executive Director, Eastern Kentucky Employment Program (EKCEP)

Region 4 (Arkansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming)

Kelly Folks Director of Employment and Training Division, Colorado Department of Labor and Employment

Region 5 (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, and Wisconsin

Region 5's election resulted in a tie between candidates Natasha Allen and Shannon Johnson.  A runoff election will be held to determine the Region 5 Director. 

Region 6 (Alaska, Arizona, California, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau)

Ashley Espinoza Executive Director, Lane Workforce Partnership

NAWDP’s Board of Directors represents an extensive community of more than 5,000 workforce development professionals from across the nation. For more information about NAWDP’s programs, Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) certification, and membership, visit www.nawdp.org.

About NAWDP

NAWDP provides the education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive in the workforce development industry as thought leaders and innovators. As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry.

The healthcare industry faces a nationwide shortage of Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists, creating a pressing need for innovative workforce solutions. AdventHealth’s Crossbones CT program is stepping up to meet this challenge by offering a full-time, paid learning opportunity designed for technologists registered in X-ray, nuclear medicine, and radiation therapy to transition into CT roles.

This structured 12-week program provides participants with full-time pay while they focus entirely on developing their skills through didactic instruction, cutting-edge simulations, and hands-on clinical training. Upon successful completion and certification, graduates transition into CT Technologist roles with higher pay and industry-recognized credentials—all without tuition fees or after-hours commitments.

Since its launch less than a year ago, the Crossbones CT program has already trained 20 new CT Technologists in AdventHealth’s West Florida Division and is now expanding into East Florida and Texas to meet the growing demand.

Watch this video to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAKtPSl3HkQ&t=54s

The H.G. Weisman Award is granted, at the discretion of the NAWDP Board Chair, for exceptional services to NAWDP and the field of workforce development. Ugues is passionate about workforce development, with extensive experience in economic development and business services.

“I am truly grateful to be selected by NAWDP as a recipient of the H.G. Weisman Award,” said Ugues. “As a long time member of NAWDP who participated initially for my own career development purposes, to now being engaged in a leadership and NAWDP Board of Director role that seeks to help others with their leadership and career development journey and the overall success of NAWDP, it’s a great honor to work side by side with our members, our very professional and capable NAWDP staff, and the always giving Board of Directors who dedicate their time and resources to help advance the mission of NAWDP. Thank you to NAWDP Chairwoman of the Board, Dana Keller, for this distinguished award. This honor is very much appreciated.”

Ugues has been Regional Director of SERCO of Texas for over 15 years, where his responsibilities include leading and inspiring a team of more than 300 employees to serve its seven workforce development board regions including the cities of Houston, San Antonio, Laredo, Waco, Abilene, San Angelo, and Bryan/College Station. Comprising over 50 urban and rural counties out of 254 Texas counties, SERCO of Texas helps elevate the economic and workforce environment through proven workforce development strategies and efforts. As a leader in providing results for improvement in workforce development, youth programs, one-stop workforce centers, childcare services, and many other critical economic development initiatives, Ugues is committed to facilitating SERCO’s resources to help improve opportunity and success to its customers, partners, and stakeholders.

A graduate of Texas A&M University in Kingsville, Texas, Ugues earned a bachelor’s degree in business management with a focus on marketing. Ugues is an Aspen Fellow through the Alamo Workforce Leadership Program in partnership with the Aspen Institute. He also serves as a Board Member of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals representing Texas.

“I am delighted to present this award to Manuel,” said NAWDP Board Chair Dana Keller, “His passion for workforce and dedication to helping others is an inspiration for everyone in the workforce development arena.”

The H.G. Weisman award is presented in honor of the late Hank Weisman, who was among a group of workforce leaders who were instrumental in the founding of the National Job Training Partnership, an “organization of organizations” which later was called the Partnership for Training and Employment Careers before developing into the membership professional development organization we now know as NAWDP.

Manuel Ugues

About NAWDP
NAWDP provides education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive as thought leaders and innovators in the workforce development industry.  As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. NAWDP is the heartbeat of workforce development.  For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org.

Bridget Back is a seasoned workforce development executive with over 15 years of experience in the field. She has a distinguished track record in securing and managing grants, as well as in developing and implementing effective workforce development programs. 

In her role as Deputy Director of EKCEP, Back oversees and coordinates all workforce services, creating innovative programs for the region’s employers and job seekers, as well as ensuring that programs comply with state and federal regulations. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing EKCEP’s mission to enhance employment opportunities and economic growth in the region. 

“The Workforce Professional of the Year award recognizes an individual for their leadership and impact in advancing workforce development,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP’s Chief Executive Officer. “Bridget’s extensive experience and innovative leadership has been instrumental in developing impactful programs that drive economic growth for the Eastern Kentucky region.”

Before joining EKCEP, Back gained valuable experience in the manufacturing and customer service industries, enriching her workforce development approach. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Strayer University and an MBA from Union College, equipping her with a strong foundation in business and management principles. In addition, Bridget holds several workforce development industry credentials, such as the Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF), Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP), Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP), and Certified Business Services Consultant (CBSC).

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be named NAWDP’s 2025 Workforce Professional of the Year,” said Back. “This award is a testament to the power of workforce development to transform lives and strengthen communities. I am inspired by the dedication of my colleagues at EKCEP and workforce professionals across the nation. I am excited to continue this important work and contribute to building a stronger workforce for Eastern Kentucky.”

Bridget Back, CWDP

About NAWDP

NAWDP provides education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive as thought leaders and innovators in the workforce development industry.  As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. NAWDP is the heartbeat of workforce development.  For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org.

“The Workforce Program of the Year award honors innovative workforce programs that foster new partnerships and positively impact local communities,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP CEO. “Through hands-on learning and trade skill development, Team Oregon Build creates new pathways to meaningful careers while addressing key community challenges.”

Team Oregon Build (TOB) is an innovative, career-connected learning program that introduces middle and high school students to high-demand careers in construction, architecture, engineering, disaster resilience, and public service. Launched in April 2024 with the support of a $2.6 million grant from the Oregon Department of Education, TOB is a collaborative initiative led by Lane Education Service District, Mid-Willamette Education Consortium, Southern Oregon Education Service District, local workforce development boards, statewide agencies, and industry partners. The program is designed to address both Oregon’s workforce needs and pressing social challenges, including housing shortages, wildfire recovery, and community infrastructure gaps.

Through TOB, students gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects that directly benefit their communities. Participants build emergency shelters, storage sheds, and other critical structures, learning essential trade skills while contributing to local solutions for homelessness and disaster recovery. The program also offers structured construction kits tailored for students of different skill levels, allowing them to progress from basic carpentry projects like Adirondack chairs and picnic tables to more advanced builds such as transitional housing units and mobile shelters.

Beyond hands-on learning, Team Oregon Build bridges the gap between education and workforce readiness by providing students with industry-recognized certifications, including OSHA-10 and pre-apprenticeship points that help them transition directly into well-paying careers in the trades. The program also supports educators by offering professional development, curriculum resources, and an online community forum to enhance teaching practices and expand the reach of career-connected learning.

“Team Oregon Build is honored to be recognized as NAWDP’s 2025 Workforce Program of the Year,” said Jesse Quinn, Director of Community Engagement for Lane Workforce Partnership. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the program, and we deeply appreciate the recognition.”

As of October 2024, Team Oregon Build has provided 11,156 hands-on learning experiences to nearly 5,000 high school and middle school students across the state. The program includes over 115 instructors from 86 schools across Oregon and has received 430 order submissions for sheds, shelters, and supplementary materials.

About NAWDP
NAWDP provides the education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive in the workforce development industry as thought leaders and innovators. As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org.

“The Employer of the Year award recognizes a private-sector employer or employer consortium that partners and collaborates with their local workforce partners and therefore makes a positive impact on their community, workers, and other employers,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP’s Chief Executive Officer. "Northwestern Medicine’s commitment to building stronger communities and improving health through strategic partnerships, such as with The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, is remarkable.”

Northwestern Medicine is a system of 11 hospitals across the Chicagoland area, with more than 38,000 employees. They are committed to building stronger communities by helping remove barriers to better health. Its mission is to improve the health of the community by providing advanced healthcare and fostering an inclusive environment where every interaction with patients, families, and co-workers has the potential to make a profound impact.

Through their partnership with The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, they have been able to source and recruit talent from under-resourced neighborhoods to support better communities across Chicagoland. Their collaboration has resulted in placing more than 100 residents in careers with Northwestern Medicine, with 25 participating in an On-The-Job Training program through its Healthcare Sector Center.

“Northwestern Medicine is proud to accept the 2025 NAWDP Employer of the Year Award,” said Mandee Polonsky, Director, Community Health, Northwestern Medicine. “As the third largest private employer in the state of Illinois, NM invests in the communities we serve by employing diverse individuals and providing innovative training, education and workforce development initiatives that help drive economic growth for the places we live and work.”

About Northwestern Medicine

Northwestern Medicine is anchored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital, nationally ranked in 11 specialties and one of only three hospitals in the nation rated high performing in all procedures and conditions by U.S. News & World Report, 2024 – 2025.

About NAWDP

NAWDP provides education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive as thought leaders and innovators in the workforce development industry.  As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. NAWDP is the heartbeat of workforce development.  For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org.

“NAWDP’s Board of Directors offers a diverse set of skills as we collaborate to support a broad range of workforce development professionals,” said Melissa Robbins, Chief Executive Officer for NAWDP. “We are excited to welcome Craig and Latonya to the Board and are eager to work with them to support NAWDP’s members in Illinois and Virginia.” 

Craig Schmidt is the Executive Director of the School of Extended Learning at Governors State University, leading workforce development and continuing education initiatives. He has successfully secured and managed millions in state and federal grants to build skilled worker pipelines. A strong advocate for non-traditional apprenticeship programs, he has launched Registered Apprenticeships in high demand careers. “I am honored and excited to serve on the NAWDP board, where I can collaborate with passionate professionals to empower individuals, drive innovation in workforce development, and create meaningful pathways to success for communities nationwide,” said Schmidt.

Latonya English serves as the Executive Director for Virginia Career Works, where she leads strategic initiatives, operations, and policy implementation for the region’s workforce centers. Her journey in workforce began as a recipient in youth services in South Carolina, and she now has nearly 20 years of experience in the workforce profession. She is passionate about supporting and empowering workforce professionals on the front lines, who guide and inspire others to find their career paths. “I am excited to serve NAWDP for the state of Virginia,” said English, “I am eager to contribute and be an asset to NAWDP.”

NAWDP’s Board of Directors represents an extensive community of more than 4,500 workforce development professionals from across the nation. For more information about NAWDP’s programs, Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP), and membership, visit www.nawdp.org. 

About NAWDP
NAWDP provides the education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive in the workforce development industry as thought leaders and innovators. As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. 

Since 2019, Nacho's Restaurant, located in San Angelo, Texas, has partnered with the Concho Valley Workforce Board to enhance the development of local youth, focusing on vital skills such as communication, teamwork, and social interaction. This partnership has successfully prepared many students for the workforce, with some being hired and retained by Nacho’s Restaurant, demonstrating their commitment to youth employment. Under the leadership of Mr. Simon Rincon, the restaurant has excelled in creating meaningful job experiences by teaching interview techniques, clearly communicating expectations, and accommodating diverse student needs.

“The Employer of the Year award celebrates a private-sector employer or consortium that engages with local workforce partners, creating a meaningful impact in the lives of youth in their community, workforce, and other businesses,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP’s Chief Executive Officer. "Simon’s dedication to giving back to his community by employing youth and giving them workforce experience is making a difference in the lives of youth in his community." 

Simon Rincon, raised in Mertzon, Texas, has embodied the spirit of hard work and entrepreneurship from a young age. His journey began working alongside his father as a cattleman, and later through various roles in the food industry, from dishwasher to baker. However, at 16 years old, while working at Mejor Que Nada, Simon's passion for the culinary arts truly ignited. Demonstrating dedication and drive, he advanced from a dishwasher to general manager. At just 21, Simon took a bold step, opening Nacho’s Restaurant Cantina & Grill, achieving his lifelong dream of becoming an entrepreneur. 

Beyond his business success, Simon is deeply committed to giving back to his community. He has dedicated significant time to mentoring special needs youth, providing them with opportunities to gain valuable work experience in the restaurant industry while also developing critical life skills. His restaurant has been a steadfast partner of the Concho Valley Workforce Solutions Summer Earn and Learn program since 2019, helping prepare 15 students for life after high school, with three being hired and retained by his restaurant. 

Rincon cites his strong family values, built on respect, honor, and faith, as guiding forces in his life. Additionally, he said his personal faith in God and the support from his community have driven him to not only strive for excellence in his craft but also to invest in the future of the young individuals he mentors. 

About NAWDP

NAWDP provides education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive as thought leaders and innovators in the workforce development industry.  As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. NAWDP is the heartbeat of workforce development.  For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org.

“The Youth Program of the Year award honors innovative workforce initiatives that support young people in achieving their full potential while setting career goals and excelling academically,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP CEO. “Connected Lane County, with their multiple offerings that meet a variety of needs, are championing young people in the workforce daily.”

Connected Lane County gives youth tools to aid them in seeing the value of their decisions. By breaking barriers, building bridges, and creating strategic partnerships, Connected Lane County enables youth to set and achieve career goals and attain the education necessary for their goals. With four programs offered, Connected Lane County is passionate about seeing youth succeed.

The four innovative programs—Elevate, Navigate, Spark, and Excelerators—are dedicated to empowering and preparing youth for successful futures. Elevate connects students with industry partners through internships and job shadowing, fostering essential skills for high-wage careers while strengthening the regional economy. Navigate supports young individuals aged 14-24 facing barriers like homelessness by pairing them with Resource Navigators for personalized assistance in education, employment, and financial literacy. Spark encourages creativity and hands-on learning through out-of-school experiences, providing safe spaces for youth to explore STEM and develop problem-solving skills. Finally, Excelerators focuses on preparing young people for work with accelerated education and training in growing industries, offering certifications and practical experience in fields like manufacturing, health, and tech, with a culinary program launching in 2025.

Heidi Larwick, Executive Director of Connected Lane County, said: “This award is a testament to the dedication and passion of our team. Our staff works tirelessly to provide opportunities for the youth of Lane County, and I’m incredibly proud of their impact. This recognition belongs to every person who has contributed to our mission and believed in the power of creating change through access and opportunities for young people to thrive.” 

About NAWDP
NAWDP provides the education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive in the workforce development industry as thought leaders and innovators. As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org. 

About Connected Lane County

Connected Lane County equips youth with the tools to help them gain confidence in their abilities and see value in their decisions by breaking down barriers, building bridges, and creating strategic partnerships to connect you with education and employment pathways to transform their future potential. Connected Lane County’s work includes key programs—Elevate, Navigate, Spark, and Excelerators—and services over 3,000 youth annually. To learn more, visit connectedlane.org. 

Hayes, the Workforce Development Coordinator for the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), will be recognized at the 25^th Annual NAWDP Youth Symposium on November 18, in Phoenix, AZ. 

With nearly two decades of experience in healthcare and education, Hayes’ commitment to serving underserved communities led her to work as a Community Care Manager for a grant through the University of South Carolina (USC) School of Medicine and CareSouth Carolina. In this role, she focused on gathering data and addressing high stroke and heart disease rates in South Carolina’s rural areas.  

Before joining the MUSC Health, LeeAnn spent 14 years as a Healthcare Educator at her local Community College. During this time, she worked with hundreds of diverse students, many of whom lived in challenging circumstances and sought opportunities for self-improvement. Through this work, she recognized the need to create pathways early for youth, close educational gaps, and establish clear career opportunities. Her passion for empowering others and her dedication to workforce development were born out of these experiences, driving her commitment to helping individuals succeed, regardless of their situation. 

“The Youth Workforce Professional of the Year award recognizes an individual for their perseverance to provide innovative opportunities for youth in their community,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP’s Chief Executive Officer. “LeeAnn’s dedication to opening doors for young people to receive an education and provide them with career opportunities is truly inspiring.”

LeeAnn Weaver Hayes

Upon joining the MUSC Health team, Hayes was entrusted with the responsibility to build on her past knowledge to create sustainable career pathways in her community. Leadership at MUSC Health supported her vision, allowing her to establish programs that create opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to enter healthcare professions. Her innovative work has played a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment for underserved populations. 

For the past two years, she has continued to lead these efforts, ensuring that the programs she develops provide skills and training as well as offer long-term career growth. Her dedication to uplifting her community and fostering diversity within the healthcare workforce reflects her deep commitment to social impact and inclusion. 

“I am deeply honored to receive the NAWDP Youth Professional of the Year Award. This recognition represents the love and dedication I have for those I serve and my lifelong passion for supporting others in ways that my brother and I would have benefited from when we were younger. I couldn't have accomplished any of this without the unwavering support of my family and my circle. It is a privilege to give back, create opportunities, and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals,” said Hayes.

About NAWDP
NAWDP provides education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive as thought leaders and innovators in the workforce development industry.  As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. NAWDP is the heartbeat of workforce development.  For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org. 

The podcast aims to answer a bold question: What could happen if we could take our workforce to new heights? By featuring inspiring stories, innovative solutions, and expert insights, Workforce on the Mic is set to become a go-to resource for workforce development professionals, policymakers, and community leaders invested in shaping the future of the workforce.

"Our mission with Workforce on the Mic is simple," said Alexis Franks, NAWDP Director of Membership and the host of Workforce on the Mic. "We want to bring dynamic conversations to the forefront that help transform the way we prepare our communities for their dream careers. From groundbreaking initiatives to real-world stories of success, this podcast is a platform for sharing knowledge and inspiring action."

Each episode will offer a unique perspective on the workforce, diving into the challenges and opportunities that are defining the industry today. Listeners will hear from a diverse range of guests, including workforce development experts, employers, and policymakers who are making an impact in their fields.

Workforce on the Mic will cover topics such as:

• Emerging trends in workforce development
• Innovative training and career preparation programs
• Success stories from workforce professionals and job seekers
• Strategies for creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces
• The role of technology in the future of work

NAWDP, a leading organization in the field of workforce development, is dedicated to supporting and advancing the careers of workforce development professionals. Through this podcast, NAWDP aims to further its mission by engaging listeners with meaningful content that can help shape policy, drive innovation, and prepare individuals for the jobs of tomorrow.

Listeners can tune in to Workforce on the Mic - Presented by NAWDP on all major podcast platforms. New episodes will be released on the third Thursday of each month, offering fresh insights and actionable takeaways for workforce development professionals and anyone passionate about the future of work.

For more information or to listen to the latest episode, visit www.nawdp.org/WorkforceOnTheMic.

You can listen and follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

About NAWDP
NAWDP provides education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive as thought leaders and innovators in the workforce development industry.  As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org.

“Members of Congress are making important decisions about federal workforce development policies, and we need to make sure they understand how the proposed legislation will affect our ability to serve our communities. Site visits offer a perfect opportunity for these important conversations. We are thrilled to join together with NAWDP to offer this important resource to the workforce ecosystem during this critical time,” said Brad Turner-Little, President and CEO, NAWB

The August Congressional recess presents an ideal window for hosting site visits, allowing lawmakers to engage with their constituents in their home districts. This timing is especially opportune as it leads into September’s Workforce Development Month, which was created by NAWDP in 2005 to offer a platform to highlight the critical role of workforce development programs across the nation.

The Congressional Site Visit Guide is an invaluable resource for workforce development boards and professionals, offering a clear and actionable roadmap for planning and executing successful visits. The guide includes sections on the significance of hosting a visit, detailed planning steps, and a step-by-step approach to ensure that these visits highlight the transformative role of workforce development programs. Additional tips are also provided to enhance the experience for both hosts and Congressional guests.

Why Host a Congressional Site Visit?
Site visits offer a unique opportunity for workforce development organizations to showcase their programs and services directly to the lawmakers who influence federal workforce policies. By hosting these visits, organizations can demonstrate the real-world impact of their work, foster stronger relationships with policymakers, and advocate for continued support and funding.

How to Plan a Visit
The guide outlines essential planning steps, including identifying the right time to invite Congressional members, preparing site staff and participants, and coordinating logistics to ensure a seamless experience. It also emphasizes the importance of tailoring the visit to reflect the specific needs and successes of each workforce development program.

Step-by-Step Guide with Additional Tips
From drafting the initial invitation to executing follow-up communications, the guide walks hosts through every stage of the process. The tips provided ensure that hosts can anticipate and address potential challenges, making the visit as impactful as possible.

Melissa Robbins, CEO of NAWDP, emphasized the importance of site visits: “Hosting a Congressional site visit is one of the most powerful tools we have to advocate for our workforce programs. By inviting our lawmakers to see firsthand the difference these programs make in people’s lives, we are not only showcasing our successes but also educating and building essential partnerships for the future.”

Workforce development boards and professionals across the country are encouraged to take advantage of this resource and begin planning their Congressional site visits today. The guide is available for download on the NAWB website at https://www.nawb.org/advocacy-and-policy/tools.

About the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB)
NAWB serves, supports, and represents the nation's more than 590 Workforce Development Boards, which coordinate with education and economic development stakeholders to administer regional workforce programs that meet the needs of job seekers, career-seekers, businesses and communities.For more information on NAWB's latest work and initiatives, please visit www.nawb.org.

About the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP)
The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals is dedicated to enhancing the professional skills of workforce development professionals. NAWDP offers certifications, training, and professional development opportunities to help individuals advance their careers and support the workforce development field. For more information on NAWDP's latest work and initiatives, please visit www.nawdp.org.