VOScast

In this episode, we are joined by Phillip Sprehe, Lead Economist at Geographic Solutions, for a focused conversation on how labor market forecasts are built and what the data reveals about the U.S. workforce in early 2026. Phillip pulls back the curtain on the Economist Corner, explaining how internal indicators, unemployment claims data, and real-world adjustments shape monthly forecasts ahead of the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports. The discussion explores a softening labor market, sector-level performance, rising concerns about chronic unemployment, and the growing role of AI in both hiring and productivity, offering practical takeaways for workforce boards, analysts, and economic development professionals navigating an increasingly complex labor landscape.

In this episode, we're joined by Kerry Twomey, Director of Account Management at Metrix Learning, for a timely conversation about AI, upskilling, and what truly matters in today's workforce. Kerry shares insights on why human skills like critical thinking, communication, and empathy remain essential in an age of rapid technological change—and why learning how to use AI may be just as important as understanding its limits. We explore SkillUp America and how equitable access to training is helping communities, nonprofits, justice-impacted individuals, and emerging leaders build meaningful career pathways through lifelong learning. From reskilling during disruption to real-world success stories, this episode offers a grounded and hopeful look at the future of workforce development.

Tune in as we sit down with Keidrian Kunkel, President & CEO of CareerSource Tampa Bay, for a powerful conversation about leading through change in today's evolving workforce landscape. Keidrian shares insights on Tampa Bay's remarkable recovery from back-to-back hurricanes, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and innovative strategies to strengthen local talent pipelines. From empowering youth and supporting veterans to embracing AI as a tool for inclusion and efficiency, she offers a forward-looking perspective on how collaboration, accountability, and adaptability are shaping the region's economic future.

Tune in for a conversation with Ron Painter as he discusses how policy shifts, skills based hiring, and the rise of data and AI are creating new opportunities for states and local regions. He also reveals the importance of collaboration, agile leadership, and credentialing in strengthening workforce systems. Finally, he offers insights on keeping entry level pathways open, personalizing service delivery, and building strategies that help organizations thrive in times of uncertainty.

Tune in to explore how we can create real second chances for people returning from incarceration. You'll learn why digital literacy, skills based hiring, and education are essential to long term success. This episode breaks down the barriers justice impacted individuals face, from over 44,000 documented restrictions to basic access issues like email and transportation. You'll hear practical ideas for making workforce systems more inclusive, how AI is starting to reshape career exploration, and why apprenticeships hold promise if we make them more accessible. Walk away with a deeper understanding of what it really takes to build a fairer and more effective path to opportunity.

In this episode we welcome Brittny MacIver, Technical Consultant and founder of Cali Madison Solutions, to share her unique journey from corrections counselor to leadership roles in vocational rehabilitation (VR). Brittny discusses the vital role of performance data in improving outcomes for program participants, the importance of measurable skills gains, and the impact of AI and capacity challenges on the future of VR. She also offers insights into tracking credentials, reducing administrative burdens, and maintaining the individualized approach that defines VR. The episode closes on a lighter note with Brittny's current favorite artist and reflections on the intersection between VR and workforce development.

In this season two premiere of the VOScast podcast, we are joined by Ben Ogilvie, Head of Accessibility at ArcTouch, who shares his personal journey into accessibility work influenced by his father's paralysis and son's brain injury. Ben discusses how ArcTouch helps clients view accessibility as an opportunity rather than just a compliance requirement, explores AI's current and future impact on accessibility features, offers specific recommendations for making employment apps more accessible, provides best practices for implementing accessibility in user-generated content, and advises companies on preparing for the upcoming WCAG 3.0 standards.

This episode features a conversation with Britt Otter, an accessibility expert who shares valuable insights on the intersection of AI and digital accessibility. Britt discusses current trends in AI tools and their potential to enhance accessibility when properly implemented, while also highlighting important considerations and potential drawbacks. The conversation explores how accessibility initiatives have evolved over the past five years, particularly since COVID-19, touching on the expansion of digital accessibility requirements and new legislation like the European Accessibility Act. Britt also provides detailed technical guidance on implementing Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for various content elements, shares insights on the importance of plain language in accessibility, and recounts a successful collaboration with Geographic Solutions to improve labor market information module accessibility

This episode features a conversation with Chad Carter, a 10-year veteran of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. Chad shares his insights on the evolution of workforce development, including the shift from unemployment offices to employment centers, the impact of COVID-19 on service delivery, and the importance of alternative career paths such as apprenticeships. He also discusses Indiana's innovative programs, such as the Work Ready Grant, and the efforts to support reentry employment for those with felony convictions. Chad talks about Indiana's methodology for ranking in-demand jobs, the importance of data-driven decisions, how to prepare for AI's impact, and maintaining a compassionate approach when helping job seekers.