PATHIRED
The PATHIRED podcast explores the heart of workforce development—what it is, why it matters, and how it connects industries, organizations, and individuals. From strengthening communities to addressing the evolving needs of fields like technology, trades, and construction, workforce development is the foundation of economic growth and career success.
Join Workforce Development Consultant Daisy Saulls and expert guests as they share what's working, tackle challenges, and discuss innovative solutions driving workforce transformation. Along the way, hear inspiring and nontraditional career journeys that highlight the diverse paths people take in this dynamic ecosystem. Discover how workforce development shapes our communities and helps build a stronger future for everyone.
PATHIRED
Pipelines That Work: Dr. Michael Grubbs & Neil Wilford on Building Pathways from Classroom to Career
On this episode of PATHIRED, Daisy Saulls sits down with Dr. Michael Grubbs, Director of Career, Technical, and Adult Education at Loudoun County Public Schools, and Neil Wilford, Training Director at the Baltimore Electrical JATC. Together, they unpack how schools and apprenticeship programs partner to co-design training, share costs, and measure ROI in real terms, like wages earned and careers launched. The conversation dives into what actually drives recruitment, why parent engagement matters, and how to help students see themselves in pathways that lead to stable, high-paying jobs. From scaling regional programs to shifting community perceptions, this episode shows what effective workforce development looks like in action.