Claim OwnershipEast Kentucky Works Podcast
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© 2025 EKCEP, Inc.
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Want to know what's happening in Eastern Kentucky's workforce and beyond? You're in the right place! Produced by the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program, Inc. (EKCEP), the East Kentucky Works Podcast provides a glimpse into the world of workforce and economic development in our part of Central Appalachia.
We'll hear from leaders in economic development, employers, workers, and more. EKCEP, a nonprofit workforce development agency headquartered in Hazard, Ky., serves Kentuckians and Kentucky businesses through an array of career and employment services. Learn more about us at www.ekcep.org.
26 Episodes
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Join us as we talk with Cris Ritchie about the exciting new Teleworks Academy from the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP). Learn how this enhanced program is creating personalized pathways to high-demand remote work opportunities, empowering Eastern Kentuckians to build stable, rewarding careers without having to leave home. The Teleworks Academy is an enhanced, free program by EKCEP, designed to equip Eastern Kentuckians with the skills, confidence, and connections nee...
The Power of Partnership: Upskilling for Eastern Kentucky Guests: - Dottie Nolan: EKCEP Training Coordinator - Linda Chen & Donnie Grimes: The Center for Professional Development, University of the Cumberlands Episode Highlights: The Need: Dottie discusses why EKCEP saw a need for new, customized certification courses to make job seekers more employable. The Partnership: The team explains the collaborative process of creating custom, asynchronous training programs that clients can com...
Welcome back to the East Kentucky Works podcast! In this episode, we're tackling some common misconceptions about the Kentucky Career Centers. Many people still think of them as the old "unemployment office," but they've evolved into something much more. We're here to bust three major myths and show you how the KCCs are a powerful resource for everyone in Eastern Kentucky, no matter where you are in your career journey. Myth #1: Kentucky Career Centers are just a depressing place to get a che...
Join us for an eye-opening episode as we debunk common misconceptions about employment, second chances, and the invaluable resources available at Kentucky Career Centers (KCCs) and EKCEP. We tackle harmful myths head-on, sharing inspiring stories and revealing the truth about who KCCs serve, the diverse career paths they support, and how they empower individuals to achieve their full potential. In This Episode, We Discuss: Myth #1: People with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) or who are justice-i...
Welcome back for Season 2! In our first episode, "EKCEPS Insights: Building the Future Workforce," we sit down with two incredible individuals who are making a real difference in Eastern Kentucky's job market: EKCEPS Workforce Development Coordinators, Theresa Noble and Vanessa Collier. Join us as Theresa and Vanessa pull back the curtain on the crucial role of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) in our state. They'll demystify what WIOA is all about and walk us through their ...
In this episode, we're celebrating the incredible success of our first KY Gives Day and saying a massive thank you to everyone who supported us! We're also pulling back the curtain to explain how EKCEP (Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program), the non-profit behind this podcast, is funded and how your support, in all its forms, fuels our mission to prepare, advance, and expand the workforce of Eastern Kentucky. Discover the impact of your contributions and learn about the various wa...
Join hosts Jen Breeze and Jaeclinn Kiser on this episode of East Kentucky Works as they welcome professional jockey Adam Bowman! It's a unique story – Adam is not only a successful athlete in the demanding world of horse racing but also a former client of KCEOC Community Action Partnership's Kentucky Career Center, one of EKCEP's valued service providers. Adam shares his incredible journey, discussing the circumstances that first led him to seek assistance and his experiences utilizing the C...
In this episode, Jaeclinn & Jennifer welcome Dylon Baker, Assistant VP of Workforce Initiatives at Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH). Dylon shares his unique and inspiring journey – from successfully utilizing WIOA services as a job seeker to now leading workforce development efforts for one of the region's largest employers. Listen in as Dylon discusses the personal challenges he overcame with the help of the WIOA program, how that experience shaped his career, and the pivotal momen...
We recap a busy first quarter for EKCEP! Tune in for key updates on major grants, partnerships, awards, and impactful programs supporting Eastern Kentucky's workforce. Q1 2025 Key Highlights: Major Funding: Secured a $500,000 grant from the KY Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission to boost recovery-to-work efforts.Advocacy & Outreach: Met with Congressman Hal Rogers in D.C.; Hosted successful outreach at the KY State Capitol; Advocated at the 3rd Annual Recovery Advocacy Day.Awards & R...
In episode 14 of East Kentucky Works, we welcome Kara Williamson, a Business Services Consultant from Northeast Kentucky. Kara shares insights into the services offered by EKCEP to local employers, including recruitment assistance, registered apprenticeships, and workforce development programs. Tune in to learn how EKCEP can support businesses in finding skilled workers and enhancing workforce solutions. Topics Covered: What areas Kara serves and her role as a Business Services ConsultantServ...
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of resumes, cover letters, and job search strategies! Whether you're crafting your first resume or looking to enhance your existing one, this episode offers helpful insights and resources to boost your job search game. Recommended Tools: Kentucky Career Centers: Your local Kentucky Career Centers are an invaluable resource for resume building and job search assistance. Whether you're just starting out or need a resume makeover, the KCC staff in o...
Today on East Kentucky Works, we're talking with Jimmie Wilson and Ethan Phipps, the Director and Assistant Director of Recovery & Reentry Services at EKCEP. We discussed how EKCEP helps people in recovery from substance use disorders find jobs and overcome employment barriers. We also explored how they connect individuals who have been incarcerated or have a criminal record with second-chance employers. You'll hear inspiring stories of hope and learn more about this important work. To ...
What does Recovery and Reentry mean, and how do we help individuals in this process? Learn about our amazing Job Entry & Retention Support Specialist (JERSS).Hear inspiring Success Stories:SITE Program Stats: For those who love numbers and data, these stats are impressive!Participant services provided (basic needs, birth certificates, work clothes).Certifications earned (financial literacy, Reentry Recovery Success Program, GED).EKCEP Quick Tip: The benefits of being a second-chance emplo...
Take a look at what barriers are keeping Kentuckians from working and how EKCEP comes alongside job seekers to remove each barrier so that you can find your dream career. EKCEP Quick Tip: Nailing your interview takes preparation. Find out how we can help you succeed in your next interview. Local Labor Market Limelight: We are offering FREE online Customer Service training! Visit teleworksusa.com to locate your nearest Kentucky Career Center, where you can connect with a career adv...
Get to know your hosts, Jen and Jaeclinn! We share our career journeys and how we landed at EKCEP. What's a CEP? We break down what a Concentrated Employment Program is, how EKCEP fits in, and how we've evolved over the years. EKCEP Quick Tip: Don't go it alone on your career journey! Tap into your network, community, and resources like the Kentucky Career Center. Local Labor Market Limelight: Discover the booming world of remote work with Teleworks USA and learn how to connect with a l...
Welcome to "Tech for the Job Seeker," a special episode dedicated to demystifying AI and automation for those on the job hunt. Host and IT Director Travis dive deep into how technology is reshaping the modern workforce and, most importantly, how you can use it to your advantage. Part 1: Tech for the Job Seeker Topic 1: "Alexa, Am I Fired?" - The Future of Jobs The AI collaboration, not takeover: Travis shares his perspective on why AI and automation aren't here to replace human workers but r...
Welcome to our first-ever in-person recording! Join us as we share exciting news, including a big congratulations to Rebecca Miller on her election to the NAWDP Board of Directors. We also touch on Prosper Appalachia, preview upcoming guests, and remind listeners how EKCEP serves Eastern Kentucky's job seekers, career advancers, and businesses. Plus, find out how you can share your ideas for future episodes! Resources Mentioned: EKCEP Website: https://ekcep.org Find Your Local Kentucky Care...
Join hosts Jen and Jaeclinn as they talk with Lindsy Lawson a dedicated Career Development Specialist from KCEOC Community Action Partnership. This episode dives deep into the Prosper Appalachia program, a fantastic resource designed to help high school seniors in Eastern Kentucky explore career paths, gain valuable skills, and plan their future after graduation. Learn about eligibility, the unique benefits offered, success stories, and how students and parents can get involved—all at no cost...
On to today’s episode, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take Before, During, and After attending a job fair. Whether you're just starting your job search or looking to level up your career, we've got you covered with tips and strategies to help you make the most of these opportunities. Before the Job Fair: Research Companies: Identify companies that match your career goals and research their mission and values. Prepare Your Resume: Update your resume, ensure it’s error-free, an...
In this episode, we sat down with Tonia Fugate and Jeremy Lewis to learn more about the important work done by Job Entry Retention Support Specialists (JERSS) and how they help individuals reenter the workforce. Tonia shared her insights from the field, along with her recent experience at the “Reimagine My Story” event, and how it influences her work in helping people overcome barriers to employment. What is a Job Entry Retention Support Specialist (JERSS)? Tonia and Jeremy explain the role ...
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