
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.