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East Kentucky Works Podcast
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.
East Kentucky Works Podcast
From Workforce Client to Workforce Leader: Dylon Baker's Journey
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 moments that led him to his current role. Discover the exciting workforce initiatives ARH has developed in partnership with EKCEP's Kentucky Career Center, including internships, apprenticeships, and work experience programs designed to build healthcare careers right here in Eastern Kentucky. Dylong offers invaluable advice for individuals seeking healthcare careers, shares success stories, and provides insights for employers on the benefits of partnering with workforce development programs.
Guest:
Dylon Baker: Assistant Vice President of Workforce Initiatives, Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH)
Key Topics Discussed:
Dylon's Personal Journey:
His situation when first connecting with the WIOA program.
Challenges faced and how WIOA provided support.
Pivotal moments and key takeaways from his time as a WIOA client.
How being a client shaped his perspective on workforce development.
Motivation for transitioning into a leadership role in workforce initiatives.
Current Role & ARH Workforce Initiatives:
Overview of his responsibilities as Assistant VP of Workforce Initiatives at ARH.
Details on recent ARH & EKCEP/Kentucky Career Center programs (internships, apprenticeships, work experience): target audience, current availability.
Career pathways these programs offer within ARH (including non-clinical roles).
Qualities and skills beneficial for success in ARH opportunities.
Impact, Successes & Advice:
Success stories of individuals thriving after completing ARH workforce programs.
Advice for East Kentuckians interested in healthcare careers.
Guidance for regional employers considering partnerships with workforce development programs like EKCEP.
Future Outlook:
ARH's future goals for workforce initiatives.
Upcoming programs or expansions planned.
Resources Mentioned:
Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP): Learn more about services for job seekers and businesses: https://ekcep.org
Kentucky Career Centers (Operated by EKCEP in Eastern Kentucky): Find your local center for personalized assistance: Visit https://ekcep.org to find locations.
Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) Careers & Workforce Programs: Explore opportunities at ARH: https://www.arh.org/careers/ (Please verify if there's a more specific link for workforce initiatives)
Connect with Us:
Looking for a job, career advancement, or skilled workers? EKCEP is here to help. Visit https://ekcep.org.
Find more episodes of the East Kentucky Works podcast [Where to Listen - e.g., on ekcep.org, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.]
Let's Get To Work!