Tom Burns, executive director of Nevada's Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED), and Dr. Dorian Stonebarger, deputy director of GOED, share the bold vision driving Nevada's next era of economic growth and innovation. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, they reveal how workforce development, advanced manufacturing, critical minerals, and strategic partnerships are creating new career opportunities and strengthening Nevada's economy for generations to come. It's an inspiring look at the collaboration, leadership, and forward-thinking strategies shaping the Silver State's future.

Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED): https://goed.nv.gov/

Nevada Business Magazine (June issue featuring GOED's 16-page article on critical minerals): https://nevadabusiness.com/

Christine Maddela, founder and chief executive officer of Storyville RD, shares the inspiring journey that took her from award-winning journalist to building one of the nation's leading video production companies. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, Christine reveals how the power of storytelling, entrepreneurship, and workforce development are helping businesses, brands, and communities connect in meaningful ways. From partnering with the NFL to creating opportunities for local talent, her story is a powerful reminder that every great journey begins with a story worth telling.

Storyville RD:
https://www.storyvillerd.com/

EmployNV Business Hub:
https://employnvbusinesshub.org/

Brian Knudsen, Ward 1 Councilman for the City of Las Vegas, shares the experiences that shaped his journey into public service and the bold vision helping transform Southern Nevada's future. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, Brian discusses strengthening the healthcare workforce, advancing biotechnology, fostering regional partnerships, and creating opportunities that will shape the future of Southern Nevada for generations to come.

City of Las Vegas:
https://www.lasvegasnevada.gov/

Las Vegas Medical District:
https://www.lasvegasnevada.gov/Business/Economic-Development/Medical-District

Dale Erquiaga and Caleb Cage return to the Workforce Connections Podcast for a fascinating conversation about the stories that shaped their books, the life experiences that inspired them, and the deeply personal moments that found their way onto the page. From Nevada history and Basque family legacies to military service, leadership, and the healing power of storytelling, this episode offers a rare look inside the minds of two accomplished Nevada authors and public servants. Whether you're an aspiring writer or simply love a great story, you'll leave inspired to preserve your own.

Books Featured:
• Three Wives' Tales by Dale Erquiaga
• A Soldier's Road by Dale Erquiaga
• Desert Mementos by Caleb Cage
• The Gods of Diyala by Caleb Cage

Find the books:
https://www.amazon.com/amz-books/store?ccs_id=d3ef965a-9eeb-4274-9ae1-f928118c7b67

Peter Guzman, president of the Latin Chamber of Commerce, shares the remarkable journey that took him from humble beginnings in Las Vegas to becoming one of Southern Nevada's most influential business and community leaders. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, Peter reveals how entrepreneurship, mentorship, and a passion for serving others are helping strengthen small businesses, expand educational opportunities, and shape the future of Nevada's workforce.

Latin Chamber of Commerce:
https://www.lvlcc.com/

Hector Fernandez, chief executive officer of IGT, returns to the Workforce Connections Podcast to share the remarkable journey of leading one of the gaming industry's most iconic companies. In this episode, Hector reveals how betting on yourself, embracing innovation, and building a culture of excellence are helping shape the future of IGT and the gaming industry, while also sharing his passion for the Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's.

IGT:
Home | IGT

Walk to End Alzheimer's – Las Vegas (October 17):
2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Las Vegas, NV | Walk to End Alzheimer's

Dr. Bobbi Damrow, chief executive officer of the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas, shares the remarkable journey that brought her from the manufacturing floor to the role of leading Southern Nevada’s most transformative workforce training organization. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, she reveals how hands-on training, industry partnerships, and life-changing career opportunities are opening doors for thousands of students while helping power the future of Las Vegas’ hospitality industry. It’s an inspiring story of second chances, purpose, and the people behind one of the city’s greatest workforce success stories.

Culinary Academy of Las Vegas:
https://www.theculinaryacademy.org/

Westside Bistro:
Located at the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas
Open Monday–Friday, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Victor Wakefield, Nevada State Superintendent of Public Instruction for the Nevada Department of Education, shares the inspiring journey that took him from teaching middle school students to leading Nevada’s education system. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, he reflects on the power of education to change lives and the experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy. From workforce readiness and career-connected learning to preparing students for the opportunities of tomorrow, Victor offers an inside look at the vision helping shape the future of education across Nevada.

Nevada Department of Education:
https://doe.nv.gov/

Leo Bletnitsky, president of Healthy Technology Solutions and longtime Workforce Connections board member, shares an incredible journey from immigrating to the United States from Ukraine to building a successful technology company in Las Vegas. From an unexpected career in IT and a near-miss with the FBI to the rise of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the future of work, Leo offers a fascinating look at how innovation, resilience, and curiosity are reshaping both business and technology. 

Healthy Technology Solutions:
Healthy Technology Solutions

College of Southern Nevada Cybersecurity Program:
CSN Cybersecurity Programs

Mitch Cloward, region president of Intermountain Health, shares a powerful story of leadership, compassion, and purpose in this inspiring episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast. From starting his healthcare journey as a hospital housekeeper to leading one of the region’s largest healthcare systems and helping bring Nevada’s first standalone children’s hospital to Las Vegas, Mitch reveals how empathy, innovation, and service are transforming the future of healthcare in Southern Nevada.

Intermountain Health:
Intermountain Health

Intermountain Children’s Health / Primary Children’s Hospital:
Primary Children’s Hospital

 Scott Muelrath, president and CEO of the Henderson Chamber, shares the story behind Henderson’s explosive growth and the vision helping shape Southern Nevada’s future in this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast. From the arrival of Haas Automation and major development projects to workforce challenges, small business growth, and the rapid transformation of Henderson, Scott gives an inside look at the leadership and momentum driving one of the region’s fastest-growing communities. 

Henderson Chamber of Commerce:
Henderson Chamber of Commerce