KRA's The Hub

Recorded live at the 2026 NAWB Forum in Las Vegas, this episode features a dynamic conversation with Ron Painter, former CEO of the National Association of Workforce Boards and current principal at Forbes Field Associates. Together, we explore what it takes to lead in today's rapidly evolving workforce landscape—from navigating policy shifts and leveraging data, to building agile, collaborative organizations that can respond to constant change. Ron shares insights on the importance of vision, the realities of labor force trends, and how leaders can stay relevant in the face of disruption, including automation and AI. Whether you're a workforce pr...

In this episode of KRA's The Hub, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Jaime Cruz, Executive Director of Workforce Connections in Southern Nevada, to discuss how Las Vegas is transforming its workforce system to meet a rapidly evolving economy. Jaime shares his journey from hospitality to workforce leadership and highlights how a demand-driven approach, strong business engagement, and innovative partnerships are building talent across key industries. As NAWB's 2026 Forum heads to Las Vegas, this conversation offers a preview of what's ahead and what it takes to ignite innovation and drive real workforce impact.

In this Getting to Know KRA episode, we turn the tables and interview KRA's The Hub host Jonathan Overall, Director of Communications and Innovation at KRA, to explore the organization's expanding work in consulting. Jonathan shares how KRA is building on its deep experience in workforce services to help agencies, boards, and nonprofits navigate complexity, strengthen performance, and translate policy into practice. The conversation highlights KRA's relationship-driven, solution-focused approach—grounded in listening, collaboration, and implementation—and offers insight into when organizations should seek consulting support, what success truly looks like, and how KRA is preparing partners for the future thro...

Tune in for a conversation with Andrew Bercich, Chief Executive Officer of the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB), as he shares his vision for the future of the workforce system and the leadership needed to navigate a rapidly changing economy. Drawing on more than two decades of experience in talent operations with companies like Amazon and IBM, Andrew discusses how workforce boards can adapt to accelerating technological change, including the growing impact of artificial intelligence on jobs and skills. He also reflects on stepping into his new national leadership role, the priorities shaping NAWB's next chapter, and how...

In this special episode of Getting to Know KRA, we sit down with Mr. Knowlton Atterbeary, Founder, President, and CEO of KRA, to celebrate the organization's 45th anniversary and reflect on the vision that launched KRA in 1981. Hosted by Jonathan Overall, the conversation explores Mr. Atterbeary's early inspiration to strengthen disadvantaged communities through workforce development, the core values that have guided KRA through decades of economic change, and the leadership lessons learned through growth and national expansion. Mr. Atterbeary also shares defining milestones, including national recognition from NAWDP, and offers a forward-looking perspective on how KRA is positioned to...

In this episode of Getting to Know KRA, we sit down with Zaskia Ruiz, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, for a behind-the-scenes look at how KRA's operations support its mission and nationwide impact. Hosted by Jonathan Overall, the conversation explores operational strategy, fiscal oversight, compliance, and internal systems that ensure programs run effectively across diverse regions. Zaskia shares insights on leading through complexity, strengthening organizational infrastructure, and aligning people, processes, and resources to support workforce programs that serve communities with integrity and accountability.

In this episode, we're joined by Jermaine Donaldson, Director of Business Development for Genesys Works, to explore how human-centered leadership and intentional workforce design can turn access into real opportunity—and jobs into sustainable careers. The conversation examines the critical role employers play in building equitable talent pipelines, the importance of meeting young people where they are, and how thoughtful partnerships can create long-term career mobility. Tune in to gain insight into how people-first strategies, strong employer engagement, and intentional program design can drive meaningful outcomes for both individuals and the workforce ecosystem.

Recorded live at the 2025 Raising the Bar Conference, this episode features Fahim Karim, Manager of Business Services for Employ Prince George's, sharing insights on how effective employer engagement drives stronger workforce outcomes. Fahim discusses how his team supports businesses through economic uncertainty, responds to federal workforce disruptions, and helps employers recognize transferable skills and emerging talent. Listeners will also learn how Prince George's County is approaching recruitment, business partnerships, and the practical integration of AI to improve efficiency and growth. This conversation highlights how listening, collaboration, and innovation can turn workforce challenges into real opportunity.

In this episode of Getting to Know KRA, we sit down with Reena Singh, Program Director for KRA's Northern Nevada region, to take a closer look at the role of one-stop operations in delivering a seamless, client-centered workforce experience. Hosted by Jonathan Overall, the conversation explores how EmployeeNV Career Hubs coordinate partners, community resources, and referral systems to meet individuals where they are and support meaningful job placement and career growth. Reena shares insights on serving a rapidly evolving regional economy, strengthening customer experience, and using continuous quality improvement to drive impact across Northern Nevada. 

In this episode, we're joined by Kirkland Murray, President & CEO of the Maryland Workforce Association and Executive Director of the Anne Arundel Workforce Development Board, for a wide-ranging conversation recorded live at the 2025 Raising the Bar Conference. Kirkland reflects on a year marked by rapid change—federal layoffs, AI disruption, shifting economic conditions—and highlights how Maryland's workforce system continues to respond with resilience, collaboration, and innovation. He discusses the vital role workforce professionals play as the "superheroes" of their communities, the importance of self-care in a demanding field, and the expanding partnerships between workforce boards, schools, and businesses to b...

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Erin Anderson Williams for a powerful conversation about what it truly takes to support and engage youth in a rapidly changing world. Dr. Williams breaks down how workforce leaders can meet young people where they are—through fun, relevance, co-creation, and authentic connection—while also confronting the "superhero complex" that so often leads to exhaustion and burnout in our field. She invites us to pause, reflect, and reset, reminding leaders that caring for themselves is essential to doing meaningful, sustainable work. From the accelerating pace of innovation to shrinking resources, Dr. Williams offe...

In this episode of Getting to Know KRA, we are joined by Program Director Mike Longo, as he highlights how his decades of experience in workforce development inform the way his team meets job seekers with empathy, structure, and personalized support. You'll learn how career coaches, business services staff, and community partners work together to make the OhioMeansJobs centers in Summit and Medina counties accessible, welcoming, and effective for anyone seeking employment. From innovative outreach tools to real success stories that show the impact of strong relationships, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes understanding of how KRA's values, people, and...

In this episode, host Jonathan Overall speaks with Brandon Tigges, CEO and Co-Founder of Job Machine, an AI-powered platform transforming how workforce organizations place people in jobs. Recorded live at the CWA Meeting of the Minds Conference in Monterey, they explore how Job Machine automates key parts of the job search—creating resumes, applying to positions, scheduling interviews—so career services teams can focus on human connection rather than data entry. Brandon shares how AI can augment, not replace, workforce professionals, the impressive placement results achieved with partners like Goodwill Southern California, and his company's big, audacious goal: making it po...

In this episode of The Hub, recorded live at the CWA's Meeting of the Minds conference, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Nia Ford, Workforce Services Specialist for the Alameda County Workforce Development Board. Nia shares how her team is advancing innovation through apprenticeships, medical assistant training, and a groundbreaking wellness and job-quality initiative that puts people at the center of workforce development. Reflecting on the conference theme "Fearless Forward," she opens up about stepping beyond her comfort zone, embracing new challenges, and redefining what career growth means in a rapidly changing world.

In this episode of Getting to Know KRA, we sit down with Donna Eissoh, Business Services Manager for KRA's AJCC Rancho Dominguez program in Los Angeles County, and Thomas Thornton, Business Services Manager for Summit and Medina Counties in Ohio. Together, they offer an inside look at how KRA's business services teams are helping employers thrive in two very different regions—one rooted in manufacturing and polymers, the other in logistics and healthcare. Tune in for a rich conversation about employer engagement, building authentic relationships, and workforce development strategies that embody The KRA Way.

In this episode, originally recorded at CWA's Meeting of the Minds conference, we are joined by Latoya Reed-Adjei, from the Alameda County Workforce Development Board, to explore what it means to lead through change with courage, creativity, and purpose. Discover how workforce systems can evolve from compliance-driven bureaucracy into proactive, relationship-focused engines of equity and opportunity. Latoya also explains how social capital can close gaps in access in the age of AI, and shares her vision for reframing employer engagement as partnership—not transaction. This is a conversation about navigating uncertainty, transforming systems, and leading "fearless forward."

Tune in to hear from guests Alexis Franks and David Barch from The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) as they take you inside the 2025 Business Services Academy. You'll hear about how workforce professionals come together to exchange best practices, strengthen strategic employer relationships, and push past the limits of "business as usual" to reimagine what exceptional business services in workforce development can look like. 

In this episode of Getting to Know KRA, we sit down with Patrick T.J. Boxall, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer at KRA Corporation, to explore how strategic partnerships fuel workforce innovation. Patrick shares how KRA integrates mental health resources, strengthens business engagement, and adapts to an evolving labor market to align talent with business needs. Tune in to gain insight into KRA's forward-thinking approach to collaboration and the dynamic relationships that deliver real results.

Tune in for a powerful conversation with Robert DeJournett, President and CEO of the Black Chamber of Commerce of Summit County, Ohio. Robert shares how the chamber is closing opportunity gaps, fostering collaboration, and empowering Black entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses and generational wealth. Discover how community partnerships, workforce connections, and intentional resource sharing are driving inclusive economic growth—and learn how the Summit County Black Chamber is becoming a trusted hub for innovation and impact across the region.

Maryland's workforce system is rising to the moment—celebrating the people who make a difference every day, embracing innovation to meet new challenges, and adapting for a future full of change. In this episode, discover how workforce leaders and professionals are coming together at the Raising the Bar conference to honor frontline heroes, highlight the power of youth engagement, explore the role of AI and storytelling, and strengthen resilience across communities. Tune in for a conversation about connection, creativity, and the collective effort to shape a stronger tomorrow. 

Discover how workforce development is evolving to meet the needs of diverse communities through innovation, inclusion, and resilience. In this episode, Lubna Hanif, WIOA Team Supervisor at Rubicon Programs, shares her journey from frontline career coach to team supervisor, reflecting on the power of mentorship, cultural responsiveness, and trauma informed care in supporting participants. She discusses how programs like WIOA are adapting to legislative change, the role of AI and virtual services in expanding access, and the importance of empowering both clients and staff. Listeners will gain insights into balancing technology with humanity while building inclusive pathways to employment...

In this episode of Getting to Know KRA, we sit down with Derrick Colbert and Shanavia Moore from KRA for a behind the scenes look at how the organization delivers on its mission to engage businesses, develop workers, and nurture strong communities. Derrick and Shanavia share their personal journeys into workforce development, the meaning of operational excellence, and how people first leadership and consistent execution create lasting impact. From building trust with job seekers and businesses to aligning strategy with local needs, they reveal how KRA balances performance with purpose to drive economic mobility and strengthen communities across the...

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.   

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 creating lasting impact. Whether you're part of the KRA team or just curious about what makes this organization stand o...

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 goals and potential.

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 half, and create workforce matches that stick. Join us as we explore how human-centered AI is t...

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 mobility in historically underserved neighborhoods. Discover how their collaborative "Community Day" outreach, flexible learning options, and...

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 resilience, and how to support the next generation of workforce professionals in today's changing landscape.

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 silver sponsor and exhibitor at this milestone event, supporting efforts to...

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 current role, this episode is filled with valuable insights and encouragement.

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 like healthcare, trucking, and construction. She also explains how KRA's approach stands out through community-connected staff, comprehensive client support...

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 the importance of community in driving lasting impact.

In this special Women's History Month episode of KRA's The Hub podcast, host Jonathan Overall welcomes Yolanda Johnson, Executive Director of CASA of Prince George's County, Maryland. Yolanda shares her inspiring journey from cosmetology to leadership in child advocacy and offers an in-depth look at CASA's mission to support foster youth through volunteer advocacy, transitional programs, and community partnerships. The episode highlights CASA's collaboration with KRA on Project LIFT, a workforce development initiative designed to meet foster youth where they are and guide them toward career readiness and independent living. Tune in for a powerful conversation about collective impact, t...

In this special series spotlighting women leaders in workforce development, we welcome MacKenzie (MacK) Garvin, Director of the Mayor's Office of Employment Development (MOED) in Baltimore City. This engaging conversation explores the challenges and opportunities women face in leadership positions, with candid insights about the journey from practicing law to workforce development. Listeners will discover valuable perspectives on resilience, authentic leadership, and the importance of mentorship in navigating professional environments that often celebrate traditionally masculine qualities. The episode also offers practical advice for aspiring professionals on maintaining passion in service, connecting with experienced mentors, and implementing effective networking strategies...

Join us as Derrick Colbert, Managing Director of Operational Excellence at KRA, shares his expertise on engaging returning citizens in the workforce. Derrick explains how this labor pool represents committed employees when given opportunities. He discusses challenges faced during incarceration and reentry, along with strategies for successful reintegration—including pre-release planning, family reunification, and support services. With years of experience, Derrick also urges workforce professionals to look beyond labels and provide returning citizens with equal support. Learn how employment transforms lives, strengthens families, and stabilizes communities by reducing recidivism and creating career pathways across diverse industries.

Tune in for another episode of KRA's The Hub as Rick Beasley, Executive Director of CareerSource South Florida, shares his workforce development journey from Missouri to Florida. Rick discusses his philosophy that employers are the workforce system's customers while job seekers are the product to be developed and brokered. He explains how CareerSource South Florida transformed from an underperforming board to a leader through investments in technology, performance tools, and strategic partnerships with economic development organizations. Rick outlines his approach to creating systems that monitor compliance, measure outcomes, and connect workers to businesses in industries like tourism, healthcare, and...

In this episode, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Jesse McCree, CEO of SCPa Works, following their meeting at the winter U.S. Conference of Mayors. Jesse shares insights about South Central Pennsylvania's diverse economic landscape, highlighting the region's strengths in manufacturing, healthcare, IT, and logistics. The conversation delves into the critical relationship between workforce and economic development, emphasizing their successful approach to business services through collaborative partnerships. They also explore the pressing challenge of the digital divide and AI's impact on workforce development, with Jesse presenting frameworks for both internal organizational efficiency and external service delivery. 

This 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...

 In this episode of KRA's The Hub, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Cory Vojack, Project Director for KRA's operations in Summit and Medina Counties, Ohio. Recording on-site in Northern Akron, they discuss Cory's extensive background in workforce development and his current role leading KRA's innovative workforce initiatives in the region. Cory shares insights about KRA's approach to developing customized training pathways, building strategic partnerships with local employers and educational institutions, and providing comprehensive support services to job seekers. The conversation highlights KRA's commitment to data-driven decision making, technology-forward solutions, and addressing the evolving needs of both employers and j...

In this fifth episode of a special series, recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Rick Record, an experienced workforce development consultant whose journey began as a youth program participant. Rick shares his remarkable career progression from working in retail management to overseeing statewide programs for California's Employment Development Department and Medicaid services. Drawing from his extensive background, Rick offers valuable insights into performance management, youth program development, and the importance of meeting young people where they are. He emphasizes the critical need to understand and address the dysfunctional environments...