Welcome to LIVE from the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium - Part 1, a special two-part podcast series recorded straight from this year's NAWDP Youth Symposium. Ever wish there was an instruction manual for "adulting"? In this podcast, we dive into the world of youth workforce and apprenticeship programs to gain strategies for bridging the gap between school and the workplace. From landing your first job to navigating workplace dynamics, we'll explore how youth workforce development programs can build essential skills, boost confidence, and make the transition into adulthood a little easier. Join us as we chat with workforce pro, BJ Paige, who has helped so many to "Find Your Nemo" and continue to motivate workforce professionals to push forward in leading youth in workforce.

Guests:

Jeanette Jones, Director of Existing Business, Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce (Tennessee)  
Representative Napoleon Bracy, Jr., Alabama House of Representatives (Alabama)

In this episode, we explore the evolving role of workforce development professionals and expand the definition to include not just government and non-profit sectors, but also private employers and economic developers. Learn how private businesses play a crucial role in upskilling talent, while economic development organizations help shape regional job growth. Whether you're providing direct training, hiring talent, or fostering partnerships that fuel local economies, you might be a workforce development professional without even realizing it! Tune in to discover how your role fits into the bigger workforce ecosystem.