VOScast

In this episode of the VOScast Podcast, host Evan Brenner sits down with Miguel Peromingo, consultant for employment policy and well-being, for a wide-ranging conversation on the forces reshaping workforce development around the world. They explore the growing skills mismatch, why job quality is declining, and how policymakers are responding to rapid changes in labor markets. The discussion also looks at the evolving role of technology and AI in employment services, the continued value of in-person job centers, and why more individualized support is critical for job seekers facing barriers to work. The episode also touches on apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, and the importance of reintegration and second-chance employment for returning citizens.

At the 2026 NCIA Conference in Jacksonville, Geographic Solutions hosted live, on-site recordings of the VOScast Podcast, bringing together voices from the corrections, reentry, and workforce development communities. In these conversations, guests shared their reflections on Second Chance Month, highlighted emerging or underrated technologies and trends shaping the corrections and reentry space, and offered their perspectives on the future of corrections and second-chance employment. Each episode provides insight into the programs, partnerships, and innovations helping individuals overcome barriers, access meaningful opportunities, and build stronger pathways to successful reentry. This episode features Rodney White, Workforce Development Manager, Virginia Correctional Enterprises.

At the 2026 NCIA Conference in Jacksonville, Geographic Solutions hosted live, on-site recordings of the VOScast Podcast, bringing together voices from the corrections, reentry, and workforce development communities. In these conversations, guests shared their reflections on Second Chance Month, highlighted emerging or underrated technologies and trends shaping the corrections and reentry space, and offered their perspectives on the future of corrections and second-chance employment. Each episode provides insight into the programs, partnerships, and innovations helping individuals overcome barriers, access meaningful opportunities, and build stronger pathways to successful reentry. This episode features Torrey Leach, Workforce Development Manager at North Carolina Department of Adult Correction and Correction Enterprises.

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 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.

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.

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 Chris Silvers from the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Workforce Solutions. The discussion covers services for veterans in North Carolina, including the NCWorks Veterans Portal, the NC Veterans at Work program, and the HIRE Vets Medallion Program. Chris shares information about the state's efforts to support veterans through job fairs, stand-downs, and collaboration with community partners. The conversation touches on helping veterans transition to civilian work, the skills they bring to the workforce, and changes in workforce development legislation.

Tune in to another episode of VOScast, as host Evan Brenner is joined by Lemoore College's Vice President of Educational Services, Kris Costa, President, James Preston. Located in California's San Joaquin Valley, they discuss the college's recent rebranding and meaning behind their new slogan "Flex Your Future." Kris and James share how Lemoore College has received numerous accolades by maintaining a student-focused culture, offering innovative programs like zero-cost textbooks, flexible courses, and striving for inclusive excellence. They also delve into how the college stays ahead of educational trends by listening to industry partners and the community, and empowering faculty and staff to learn and innovate. Finally, they touch on the importance of a college degree in today's evolving labor market and economy, and how Lemoore College is preparing students for success through career education, industry certifications, and teaching the skills needed to thrive in a world being transformed by technology like AI.

This episode features a conversation with Kevin Mohajerin from the Alabama Department of Commerce, as he shares insights on the importance of data in workforce development, particularly within WIOA and performance analytics. You'll discover the opportunities for analysts to leverage performance analytics, including using optional performance measures, optimizing training programs, and addressing skill gaps. Kevin highlights Alabama's efforts in creating a performance interface, demonstrating the value of data matching and interoperability between agencies. The conversation explores trends in data validation and performance analytics, touching on the potential of AI and the challenges of cloud-based solutions.

In this third episode of VOScast, host Evan Brenner interviews Liliya Tanska, a Workforce Business Analyst Team Lead at Geographic Solutions, about the importance of reporting in the workforce development industry. They discuss Liliya's background managing youth workforce programs in Pinellas County, Florida, and how that experience has informed her work on reporting tools within the company's software. Liliya also outlines the evolution of reporting from spreadsheets to robust business intelligence platforms, highlighting new collaboration features and artificial intelligence for automated data insights. She explains how reporting aids strategic planning, performance monitoring, and improving outcomes for service recipients.

The inaugural episode of the VOScast podcast features La Tunya Goodwin, President of the Sparta Hancock Chamber of Commerce and Director of WorkSource East Central Georgia. La Tunya discusses her background, and her work providing career services and supporting entrepreneurs and job seekers throughout rural Georgia, as well as trends she's seeing in the healthcare and cybersecurity jobs sectors. Listeners will also get a teaser as to what will be discussed in an upcoming National Town Hall event being held in January 2024 featuring speakers including Geographic Solutions President Paul Toomey, Mike Fazio, Co-President of Workforce180 and Metrix Learning, and La Tunya Goodwin.