In Episode 79, host Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton talk with Senior Pastor Brad Sheets of Life Church in Hartselle, Alabama, about the power of faith, mentorship, and community.Brad shares how Life Church began and how the new Life Center is providing practical support like GED classes, financial education, and parenting resources to help families grow stronger.At its core, this episode is about more than programs or ministries—it’s about making a difference and reminding us that when people are supported and believed in, entire communities can be transformed.

In Episode 88, host Houston Blackwood takes listeners inside Bishop State Community College’s CDL training program to hear the stories of the instructors, students, and leaders driving its success.Hear from instructors and graduates who share how hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experience are shaping the next generation of professional drivers.From overcoming challenges to growing through new equipment training and online learning, this episode shows how dedication, innovation, and relationships are transforming lives through CDL training.

In Episode 77, host Houston Blackwood welcomes Jason Blackwell, a seasoned educator and trades expert whose journey began when he became a locksmith at just 12 years old. From welding and carpentry to launching his own initiative, Activate CTE, Jason has dedicated his career to helping students connect their passions to meaningful career pathways.Jason shares how project-based, hands-on learning builds both technical and soft skills while giving students the confidence to succeed. He also highlights the importance of intentional teaching, career exploration, and industry partnerships.At its heart, this episode is about more than training programs or certifications—it’s about making a difference. It’s a powerful reminder that when educators, communities, and industry come together, students gain not only skills but also purpose, confidence, and the belief that their future is worth building.

In Episode 76, host Houston Blackwood is joined by Alex Blevins, owner of One Stop CDL Training, and Lieutenant Jason Harris of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit to dive into the future of driver training and highway safety in Alabama.Together, they explore how CDL training has expanded from 13 to 23 colleges, cutting course time in half while keeping pass rates high. They also discuss the role of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit in ensuring compliance and strengthening partnerships between training programs and enforcement agencies.From the 37-step inspection process to the importance of professionalism during traffic stops, this conversation underscores how safety and compliance go hand in hand while exploring what’s next for the industry, from defensive driving practices to emerging technologies like automated trucks and predictive analytics.

In Episode 75, host Houston Blackwood talks with Alex Blevins about his 20-year journey in the transportation industry, from serving in the military to launching his own CDL training company, One Stop CDL Training. Alex shares how his background shaped his passion for navigation, communication, and professionalism in trucking. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of students whose lives were changed by CDL training.This episode also highlights the critical role of safety, mentorship, and hands-on training in preparing professional drivers. From honoring Alabama State Troopers who keep highways safe to exploring how experienced drivers pass on knowledge, the conversation underscores how CDL training isn’t just about licenses, it’s about building futures and creating opportunities.

In Episode 74, host Houston Blackwood talks with Meredith Smith, Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeships, about the impact of apprenticeship programs across the state.Meredith shares her journey from the classroom to workforce leadership and highlights the growth of groundbreaking apprenticeship programs. With a 90% retention rate, these programs show how employer investment and mentorship create lasting success.With partnerships among colleges, universities, and employers building career pathways and efforts underway to connect high school students to opportunities, Alabama is reducing the number of disconnected youth and strengthening its workforce for the future.

In Episode 73, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier sit down with Rashaun Walker, who turned a chance opportunity into a new career path.Rashaun shares how taking a Skills for Success Electrical Helper course at Wallace Community College—something he originally thought would be his last choice—led to a job fair and a new role in carpentry. He reflects on honoring his father’s legacy, the importance of saying “yes” to opportunities, and the joy of finding work that not only builds skills but also creates more time with family.From truck driving to carpentry, Rashaun’s journey is a powerful reminder of how Alabama’s community colleges and Skills for Success training open doors to unexpected opportunities and help redefine what success looks like

In Episode 72, we explore what happens when community, industry, and education come together to build something real? On this episode of Innovation Unplugged, host Houston Blackwood sits down with Joe Johnson of Wallace Community College to talk about the Residential Construction Academy—a program that’s not just building houses, but building futures.From the origins of the academy to powerful stories of industry partnerships and student success, you’ll hear how employers like Cox Pools and Century 21 are helping transform classrooms into career pathways. Plus, Joe shares what’s next—including new trades on the horizon and how you can get involved.If you care about the future of workforce development—or just love a good story about students turning skills into opportunity—this episode is for you.

In Episode 71, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier sit down with Melody Whitten, Chief Economic Development Officer for the Alabama Community College System, for a deep dive into the connection between workforce training and economic growth.Melody shares how her role is designed to bridge the gap between Alabama’s community colleges and industry needs. She highlights how collaboration with economic developers, businesses, and Skills for Success is creating statewide solutions that address real workforce demands.

In Episode 70, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier talk with Trinity Howard, a Trenholm State Community College student who faced challenges on his path to earning a CDL but never gave up.With encouragement from his family and the dedicated support of Trenholm’s instructors, Trinity pushed through a demanding schedule, built his confidence, and ultimately earned his Class A CDL.From perseverance to purpose, Trinity’s story reflects the heart of Skills for Success and Alabama’s community colleges, showing how students gain the skills, support, and second chances they need to achieve their goals.

In Episode 69, Career Readiness team members Matt Heaton and Tom Chappell take the host seat to chat with Jackson Baker, a senior at Hillcrest High School and Alabama’s first-ever SkillsUSA Heavy Equipment Operation State Champion.
Jackson shares how he was introduced to heavy equipment, how he prepared for competition in just two weeks, and what it was like to win the state title and compete on the national stage. He also explains how learning the components of machinery and key safety procedures through Skills for Success courses made all the difference.
From working a summer job to planning his next steps at Shelton State, Jackson reflects on the power of hands-on learning, safety training, and mentorship. Whether you’re an educator, student, or industry partner, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when career training starts early and meets students where they are.

In Episode 68, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier talk with David Walters, Vice Chancellor of Adult Education and Correctional Education for the Alabama Community College System to discuss the vital role of adult education in Alabama’s workforce development.
David shares how programs like the GED, High School Diploma Option Program, and digital literacy certifications are creating new opportunities for adult learners across the state. From improving economic outcomes to supporting justice-involved individuals, this conversation dives into how education and workforce training go hand-in-hand to change lives and build stronger communities.
If you're interested in how seamless educational pathways, practical skill-building, and collaboration are shaping Alabama’s workforce, this episode is for you.

In Episode 67, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier have a conversation with Donny Jones, Chief Workforce Officer at the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of West Alabama Works for a powerful conversation on collaboration, innovation, and breaking down barriers in workforce development.
From expanding apprenticeship opportunities to helping justice-impacted individuals reenter the workforce, Donny dives into the programs and partnerships that are making a difference. The conversation also explores how wraparound services such as transportation, housing, and childcare are key to breaking barriers and supporting long-term success. Learn how innovative strategies are being used to overcome real-world workforce challenges to create sustainable impact.

In Episode 66, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier sit down with Dr. Brett Johnson, Executive Director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority, for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, local impact, economic development, and building trust.Dr. Johnson shares his journey from being a first-generation college student to leading efforts that drive business growth and community success, helping employers of all sizes access the resources they need to thrive.From followership and active listening to building lasting partnerships, Dr. Johnson reflects on the leadership lessons that shape his approach to economic development. This episode explores how trust, collaboration, and consistent support are key to helping businesses and people get across the finish line.

In Episode 65, hosts Houston Blackwood and Kailah Dozier sit down with Chris Champion, County Engineer and Chief Operations Officer for Henry County, to discuss Alabama’s critical need for skilled motor grader operators and how training through Skills for Success can help fill the gap.With over 30 years of experience, Chris shares insights into the complexity of motor grader work, the patience it takes to master the equipment, and why it’s one of the most essential roles in infrastructure. The conversation dives into the realities of workforce shortages, the role of community colleges and high schools can take in preparing the next generation, and the powerful impact of hands-on learning. This episode is a candid look at public service, practical training, and the long game of building Alabama’s future workforce one skilled operator at a time.

In Episode 64, hosts Kailah Dozier and Houston Blackwood sit down with the ACCS Innovation Center’s Workforce Coordinators, Fodina Henderson, Darlisha Davis, and Latrenda Nicholson for a candid conversation about the heart behind their work. From delivering equipment to helping students access training, the coordinators share what it means to build trust, stay adaptable, and support their community colleges and Alabama’s future workforce through Skills for Success.They discuss how they tailor their communication styles, tackle challenges on the fly, and stay rooted in service. The episode also looks ahead to their goals for expanding community outreach, learning new tools, and continuing to support their regions and the Innovation Center's mission.

In Episode 63, host Matt Heaton sits down with Tom Chappell, Career Readiness Coordinator at the ACCS Innovation Center. Tom shares his unique journey from parks and recreation to becoming a pivotal part of Alabama’s workforce development efforts through Skillsfor Success.He reflects on the behind-the-scenes work of onboarding instructors, building program consistency, and the student success stories that make it all worth it. With a focus on second chances, service, and student growth, this episode highlights the meaningful work driving Skills for Success as it continues to expand across K-12 schools and beyond.

In Episode 62, Houston Blackwood is joined by Jesse Gibson, Program Director at Crestwood Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine, for a conversation about how the Skills for Success Nurse Support Technician (NST) course is creating new entry points into the medical field. The course is designed to train individuals to assist nurses and healthcare teams in acute care settings and provide front-line patient support. This episode offers real-world insight on cross-training, supervision, and the qualities healthcare leaders look for in future professionals such as empathy, dedication, and a willingness to learn. See how Skills for Success is preparing the next generation to step into essential roles in hospitals and clinics across the state.

In Episode 61, host Houston Blackwood sits down with Frank Catlett of All Star Plumbing for a conversation about career growth, mentorship, and the real-world value of vocational training. Frank shares his journey to becoming a master plumber, now leading teams within a company that employs teams of people. They explore the apprenticeship process, the importance of learning every phase of plumbing, and how patience, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are key to building a long-term career in the trades.Hear how All Star Plumbing supports its employees, from entry-level workers to seasoned professionals and why the plumbing industry continues to offer stable, rewarding, and meaningful career opportunities across Alabama.

Skilled Start: High School Students Launching Careers in Heavy EquipmentIn Episode 60, hosts Brandi Merrill and Houston Blackwood are joined by Huntsville City School students and Career Coach Carolyn Wade to discuss how, after completing Skills for Success heavy equipment courses through Calhoun Community College, the students were hired and are now earning up to $25 an hour—all before graduating high school. Hear each student boldly and confidently share their next steps, future plans, and how heavy equipment training has shaped their career paths. The conversation explores how hands-on learning builds confidence, the value of practical skills in today’s workforce, and why more students are choosing trades over traditional college paths, along with what’s in store for the next generation of skilled workers.