In this episode, Workforce Connections welcomes Greg Stechert, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Pacific Utility Installation. Greg shares his journey, starting with his birth in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, where he was born in a bathtub! At age five, he moved to Las Vegas and attended local schools, including Bonanza High School. Greg’s career began with humble beginnings, from selling newspapers in sixth grade to working tough construction jobs like shoveling concrete and learning welding at Clark County Community College. His hard work and determination caught the eye of employers, leading to a 12-year stint at Power Plus, where he formed lasting relationships that eventually brought him back to Las Vegas.

After spending 20 years in South Florida, Greg recently returned to Nevada to join Pacific Utility Installation, a company specializing in underground utilities and high-impact projects like Brightline West, the high-speed train connecting Southern Nevada and California.

Outside of work, Greg treasures family time and traditions. He and his wife, Susie, enjoy Java Ventures—exploring unique coffee spots and rating their experiences. They also share fond memories of Saturday morning treasure hunts at yard sales with their daughters.

Greg's advice for young people is timeless: surround yourself with inspiring individuals, read voraciously, invest in personal growth, and stick to your goals like a postage stamp. He emphasizes the importance of learning from challenges, as his own life is a tapestry of resilience, faith, and community.

Pacific Utility Installation:
Utility Installation Experts | California, Nevada, Arizona

In this episode, Michael Bonner, Managing Shareholder at Greenberg Traurig's Las Vegas office, shares his journey from growing up in Las Vegas to becoming a respected leader in corporate law. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Michael attended Western High School. His educational journey began at the historic Fifth Street School, and after graduating from high school, he earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Michael then attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his law degree. With decades of experience, Michael is now the Co-Managing Shareholder of Greenberg Traurig’s Las Vegas office, focusing on corporate law and real estate matters. He’s known for his expertise in helping clients navigate complex legal challenges, earning him a prominent reputation in the legal community.

Michael’s leadership extends beyond his law practice. He serves as Vice Chairman of the UNLV Foundation Board, supporting the university's educational initiatives and fundraising efforts. He’s also an active Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) board member and a Trustee Emeritus for the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce. Michael helps foster connections between business, politics, and academia in Southern Nevada through these roles. He’s particularly excited about the upcoming UNLV Foundation gala, featuring renowned Chef José Andrés and helping raise funds for university programs. These events are valuable opportunities to network with influential leaders, and support causes that make a difference in the community.

 Outside of his professional and community work, Michael is dedicated to his family. He enjoys spending time with his seven grandchildren and attending their Little League games, dance recitals, and other school events. Michael is also an avid golfer, jokingly calling himself a "hacker" on the course. His deep love for Las Vegas is reflected in his efforts to preserve the city’s history and his reflections on its transformation over the years. 

 Michael offers valuable advice for young professionals and aspiring lawyers, encouraging them to read widely, pursue a well-rounded education, and understand history and philosophy. He stresses the importance of patience and persistence, especially for those entering the legal field, and advises young professionals to invest wisely in their 20s and 30s to build a strong financial foundation. Michael’s career and leadership insights provide meaningful guidance for anyone looking to make a lasting impact in their profession and community. 

Greenberg and Traurig Law Offices:
Las Vegas | Locations | Greenberg Traurig LLP

UNLV Foundations Annual Dinner 2025:
UNLV Foundation

In this episode, Joyce Smith, Senior Vice President in Commercial Banking at MidFirst Bank and Vegas Chamber Board Trustee, shares her journey from growing up in Ely, Nevada, to building a successful banking career. After attending Great Basin College, Joyce started as a bank teller and worked her way up through various leadership roles at multiple banks. She developed a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to her community along the way. Joyce believes financial success comes from living within your means, saving, and making smart long-term decisions. She passionately advocates financial literacy, helping others understand budgeting, saving, and investing to secure their futures.

Joyce strongly advocates fair wages and supports employees through various challenges. She believes in paying employees well and providing opportunities for growth within the organization. Joyce is committed to creating a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and are given the resources to succeed. She emphasizes that when employees are treated well and supported in their professional development, they are more likely to stay motivated and engaged, contributing to the long-term success of both the bank and the community.

As a Trustee for the Vegas Chamber, Joyce is passionate about supporting the local community. She’s excited about the upcoming Monday’s Dark Annual Event on December 9th at The Palms in Las Vegas, where world-class performers donate their time to raise funds for Southern Nevada nonprofits. Tickets are only $50. Joyce also shared details about an important capital campaign to build a new venue that provides mental health support for first responders, industry workers, and others who need a safe place to seek help. The groundbreaking is expected this December. Additionally, Joyce encourages everyone to attend the Vegas Chamber Installation Luncheon, a key event celebrating community leaders.
In her downtime, Joyce enjoys spending quality time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She takes pride in teaching them important life skills, like budgeting and distinguishing between needs and wants, which she believes are essential lessons for today's young people.

Joyce also offers excellent advice to those starting in their careers: begin with an entry-level position, such as a bank teller. It’s a great way to learn key skills in customer service, conflict resolution, and banking operations while gaining valuable industry experience. Many banks, Joyce explains, offer programs to help employees further their education and career goals. She highlights the fulfillment of helping businesses and communities grow: "When you see a building you helped finance, it’s an incredible feeling."

MidFirst Bank:
Home | True to You

Vegas Chamber:
Events | Vegas Chamber | Las Vegas, NV

Monday Dark Event:
https://thespacelv.com/events/category/mondays-dark/photo/

In this episode, Jeremy Aguero, a principal analyst at Applied Analysis and a trustee with the Vegas Chamber, joins us. Born and raised in Southern Nevada, Jeremy has been a key figure in shaping the region’s future. He earned his degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and has a career specializing in economic analysis, policy, and community development. Through his work at Applied Analysis and as a trustee with the Vegas Chamber, Jeremy plays an active role in helping the community grow and thrive.

Jeremy has been involved in major projects that have made a real difference in Southern Nevada, such as the Campus for Hope initiative. This project is a collaboration between the public and private sectors, raising $200 million to build a state-of-the-art facility to support people experiencing homelessness. It’s just one example of how Jeremy is working to improve the lives of the people in his community. His dedication to public service and deep connection to Southern Nevada has made him a respected leader.

Jeremy values family and enjoys spending time with his loved ones outside of work. He’s been through a lot personally, including the heartbreaking loss of his son, Jacob. This loss changed his perspective on life, teaching him the importance of being present and appreciating every moment. Jeremy encourages young people to work hard, take advantage of opportunities, and tackle challenges head-on. He believes life is a gift, and success comes from perseverance, good timing, and sometimes a little luck.

Jeremy’s advice to young people is simple: be intentional with your actions. He believes every choice you make shapes your future and encourages resilience in facing challenges. Setbacks, he says, are just opportunities to grow. Jeremy also stresses the importance of staying curious and open to learning, especially in today’s fast-changing world. Success, for him, isn’t just about reaching goals; it’s about learning from your mistakes and evolving while staying true to your values.

Applied Analyst:
https://www.appliedanalysis.com/

In this episode of the Workforce Connections podcast, special guest host Ricardo Villalobos talks with Grant McCandless, the President & CEO of Social Impact Consultants. Grant’s journey from Texas A&M graduate to research and consulting specialist showcases his dedication to service and community impact. With early career experience at Price Waterhouse in Germany and later as a director at RCG Economics, Grant developed his skills in economic research.
 
His current work in Nevada focuses on supporting disconnected youth—those who are neither working nor in school—drawing inspiration from Deepak Chopra's belief in serving the world through unique talents. Grant emphasizes that investing in youth is not only economically beneficial but also the right thing to do, as their success positively impacts their families and communities.

The discussion highlights the ambitious "30K by 2030" initiative, which aims to connect 30,000 young people to the workforce by 2030. By investing in this demographic, Nevada could potentially realize an impressive $12 billion in economic growth and $4 billion in cost savings. However, with approximately 42,500 disconnected youth currently in the state, existing funding through organizations like Workforce Connections can only support around 1,000 individuals. This underscores the urgent need for collective action from policymakers, funders, and community members, including Workforce Connections, to address this pressing issue effectively.

Grant offers insightful advice for young people, urging them to view their careers as opportunities for growth and to remain resilient in pursuing their passions. He stresses that investing in youth today is crucial not only for their future but also for the prosperity of the entire community. Both he and Ricardo highlight the importance of a collaborative approach to creating positive change and fostering a supportive environment for young people to thrive.

 Workforce Connections:
Connecting Employers to a Ready Workforce | Workforce Connections
 
 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. René Cantú, who shares his inspiring journey from his birthplace in California to becoming a dedicated advocate for youth success in Nevada. After facing challenges in high school, including being told to drop out, he discovered his calling in education. Dr. Cantú began his career as a teacher, focusing on empowering students from diverse backgrounds. He later took on leadership roles in various educational initiatives and ultimately joined JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) Nevada, where he works passionately to help students overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

Dr. Cantú emphasizes the importance of resilience, encouraging young people to view mistakes as opportunities for growth. "You determine your own success and value," he advises. He believes in the power of following one’s passions and finding ways to be of service rather than getting caught up in titles or salaries. He also highlights the interconnectedness of education, economic opportunity, and healthcare access.

He shares two impactful stories from JAG participants: a young woman who overcame family separation to pursue a career in law and a student from a rural area who found support despite significant challenges. Dr. Cantú envisions creating pathways for young people to achieve careers that offer annual earnings of $80,000 to $100,000 without the burden of student loans.

In his downtime, Dr. Cantú enjoys spending time with his family, engaging in outdoor activities, and exploring new places. He stresses the importance of self-care for maintaining balance and perspective, encouraging young people to prioritize their well-being and pursue their passions wholeheartedly.

Additionally, Dr. Cantú encourages families and students to participate in the School Start Time Survey, which aims to improve high school students' academic performance and mental health. The Nevada Department of Education website provides more information and access to the survey.

Lastly, JAG Nevada will hold its Statewide Initiation and Installation Ceremony on November 13, 2024, at Artemis Ham Hall at UNLV and the Student Center at TMCC in Reno. This event will celebrate students and install officers while showcasing JAG Nevada's impact on the community. To learn more about JAG Nevada and how to participate, visit JAGNevada.org.

JAG Nevada:
 https://j4ng.org/

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

In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, Michelle Jackson, President and CEO of Junior Achievement (JA) of Southern Nevada, shares her inspiring journey and the transformative work she leads through JA programs. From moving around the U.S. during her early years to her current leadership role, Michelle reflects on her background in nonprofits and passion for youth development. She explains how JA’s mission centers on equipping young people with skills in financial literacy, workforce readiness, and entrepreneurship, helping them confidently shape their futures.

Michelle elaborates on the vision and impact of the new JA Inspiration Center, a game-changing initiative for Southern Nevada. This innovative center offers programs like JA BizTown and JA Finance Park, reaching 84% of fifth graders and thousands of high school students annually. The Inspiration Center, alongside JA’s traditional classroom programs, will impact over 60,000 students each year when operating at total capacity. In BizTown, students manage a miniature city, interacting with real-world companies like PNC Bank, Google, Lexicon Bank, and UNLV. Finance Park offers student budgeting experience, with categories like transportation sponsored by partners such as the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Michelle highlights that there are still opportunities for businesses to get involved, sponsor spaces, and provide authentic business experiences to students.

Michelle also discusses ways the community can engage with JA, including sponsoring or adopting spaces within BizTown or Finance Park and securing naming rights at the JA Inspiration Center. This versatile facility accommodates up to 400 attendees and is available for events ranging from board meetings to luncheons and conferences. She highlights the JA Inspire Career Expo, held four times a year at UNLV, which brings together 4,000 middle and high school students eager to explore various careers. Businesses can participate for just $99, offering direct access to a motivated student audience. Michelle also shares details about the grand opening of the JA Inspiration Center on October 10, 2024, from 10 AM to 12 PM, an event featuring dignitaries, community leaders, and hundreds of attendees. JA plans to introduce summer programs in 2025, allowing children to experience BizTown and Finance Park during the school break.

Michelle enjoys quality time with her husband and son outside of work, embracing nature through hiking and camping trips in Southern Utah. In the winter, she and her son often go skiing while her husband, who isn’t fond of the cold, stays cozy at home. Michelle also loves attending concerts, especially poolside shows during the summer and cherishes her time at church. Her family leans towards traditional camping rather than glamping, using a basic pop-up camper without the luxuries of running water or a toilet, which allows them to connect with nature fully.

For young adults, Michelle emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and pursuing a career that aligns with one’s passions rather than letting others dictate their path. She encourages taking calculated risks between 18 and 28 when individuals often have fewer long-term commitments and more freedom to explore. She suggests focusing on business and financial studies for those interested in nonprofit leadership. While this path may not lead to extreme wealth, Michelle explains it provides the invaluable fulfillment of positively impacting thousands of lives.

Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada:
JA of Southern Nevada | Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada

JA Inspire Nevada:
JA Inspire Nevada | Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada
 

In this episode, we sit down with Terry Shirey, President, and CEO of Nevada State Bank, to explore his professional journey, community involvement, and insights on leadership. Terry shares his experience in the banking industry, emphasizing the importance of finding a skill set that’s in demand, embracing hard work, and being comfortable with discomfort as a means of growth. He also discusses how entry-level roles at Nevada State Bank, such as tellers, have become stepping stones for many leaders within the organization.

As the chair of the Nevada Hand Board of Directors, Terry highlights the organization’s efforts in providing affordable housing and comprehensive resident services in Las Vegas. He invites listeners to attend the Neighborhood Block Party on October 3rd at Symphony Plaza by the Smith Center—an informal outdoor event showcasing Nevada Hand’s community work, with opportunities to participate in fundraising. 

On a personal note, Terry talks about his passion for family time, camping, and the nostalgic rodeo link to his Wyoming roots. With his children growing older and one serving in the US Air Force in Japan, Terry and his wife are now traveling more, with plans to visit their son abroad.

Terry advises young professionals and aspiring leaders to seek opportunities, join boards, and explore leadership roles to build skills and expand their networks. He also emphasizes the value of mentorship and connections, sharing his experience working with the Vegas Chamber and other community organizations.

Nevada State Bank:
nsbank.com

Nevada Hand:
Nevada Hand website

Block Party:
Nevada HAND Block Party - Nevada HAND

In this episode, Tony Sanchez, Executive Vice President of Business Development and External Relations at NV Energy and a Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) board member, joins us to discuss Nevada's dynamic growth, the importance of sustainability, and his journey in community involvement. A native Nevadan, Tony and his wife were the first in their family to attend college. They are dedicated to ensuring their children and others have the same higher education and vocational training opportunities.

Tony is actively involved in the Hispanic and Latino Legacy Dinner, which funds scholarships that help students pursue higher education and vocational training. This year, the event aims to raise six figures to support students in achieving their dreams. He emphasizes the importance of a robust education system for attracting businesses to Nevada, believing that investing in education is vital not just for individual success but also for the overall health of the community.

In his career, Tony has had the opportunity to intern with prominent leaders in Las Vegas, which opened doors to his current role at NV Energy. He underscores the importance of mentorship and giving back to the community, encouraging today's leaders to foster growth in others and help the next generation find their way. He believes creating internship and mentorship opportunities is essential for ensuring a bright future for Nevada’s workforce.

Tony also discusses NV Energy’s ongoing conservation programs that benefit residential and commercial customers. They provide energy assessments to help identify ways to save energy and money. They offer programs that include rebates for energy-efficient appliances and initiatives like the PowerShift program for businesses. Additionally, he highlights that residents can benefit from community solar projects even if they don’t own a home, with NV Energy expanding options to ensure everyone can access renewable energy.

In his personal life, Tony enjoys exploring Nevada with his family, traveling to various regions, and discovering its hidden gems. He has four children, including a son who graduated from the Naval Academy and values family adventures and time spent together.

For young people aspiring to become community leaders, Tony stresses the importance of following one’s passion and advises against pursuing a path solely for financial gain. He believes true success comes from being passionate about your work and community. He encourages listeners to engage in community activities, follow their dreams, and leverage their resources.

NV Energy:
nvenergy.com

Public Education Foundation- Latino Legacy Dinner:
Legacy Dinner - Public Education Foundation (thepef.org)

Latin Chamber of Commerce:
Events (lvlcc.com)

In this episode of the WC podcast, Larry Singer, the Senior Managing Director at Newmark and member of the Vegas Chamber Board of Trustees, shares his remarkable journey from the Bronx to the bustling Las Vegas commercial real estate scene. He reflects on how his early experiences in his father’s business instilled a strong work ethic that has guided him throughout his career. After moving to Las Vegas during a recession, Larry quickly recognized the city’s untapped potential for growth and opportunity in the real estate market.

He provides insightful commentary on current market trends, particularly the rising popularity of mixed-use developments that cater to the evolving needs of both residents and businesses. Larry also addresses the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the office market, noting how it has sparked renewed discussions about the importance of in-person work environments. He emphasizes that mentorship is vital for young professionals, as hands-on training and guidance are essential for nurturing future leaders in any industry.

Larry’s commitment to community service shines through his involvement with children’s non-profits like Miracle Flights, which provides transportation for children with rare diseases to receive specialized medical care. He underscores the importance of community support for such organizations and encourages listeners to participate in upcoming events, highlighting these efforts' positive impact on young lives. Larry's genuine passion for both his work and community reflects his belief in the power of helping others and fostering connections in both personal and professional spheres.

Outside of his professional commitments, Larry enjoys a variety of hobbies, including watching classic films and cooking with his wife. They love to spend leisurely Sundays together, often preparing a delicious meal while enjoying an old movie. Additionally, they frequently take road trips around the Southwest, exploring new places and creating cherished memories.

Larry offers some practical advice for young people embarking on their careers: first, discover what you’re genuinely passionate about—something that feels fulfilling rather than just a job. Second, seek out a mentor who can provide support and guidance. Finally, consider starting your career in a larger corporation, which can offer more resources and opportunities for professional growth than small businesses.

Miracle Flights:
https://miracleflights.org/

Vegas Chamber:
https://vegaschamber.com/ 

In this episode of the WC Podcast, Nicole Tanguay, CEO of RVIV Wellness, shares her incredible journey from incarceration to becoming a successful therapist and advocate for holistic health. Nicole faced significant struggles and hardships growing up, including financial difficulties and a turbulent home life. Her life took a significant turn after a car accident led to her time in prison. While there, she completed degrees in sociology and a master’s program at UNLV with support from Hope for Prisoners. This help and a vision exercise at Hope for Prisoners inspired her to dream big, start her own business, and become a licensed therapist, which are goals she achieved in just 18 months.

Nicole’s center, RVIVE Wellness, offers a holistic approach to health by combining mental, physical, and spiritual care. They provide services like therapy, wellness coaching, and spiritual guidance to help people improve their overall well-being.

Nicole often deals with issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma in her clients. She stresses the importance of grounding techniques, setting small goals, and addressing trauma to aid in recovery. She also highlights the struggles of accessing therapy for low-income or incarcerated individuals and the risk of burnout for mental health professionals, sharing her journey with self-care and setting boundaries.

She’s enthusiastic about how technology, like AI and mindfulness apps, is changing mental health care. These tools help manage administrative tasks and offer clients additional support.

Nicole offers practical advice for young people facing challenges. She says that past mistakes don’t define your future and encourages them to see setbacks as opportunities for growth. Surrounding yourself with positive people and believing in your ability to change is crucial. She believes that even tough times can lead to positive outcomes if you stay hopeful and persistent.

Finally, Nicole applauds the success stories of Hope for Prisoners graduates and urges businesses to support these individuals by providing job opportunities and backing their entrepreneurial efforts. Her story is a powerful example of resilience and transformation, showing that anyone can overcome their challenges and achieve their dreams with determination and support.

RVIVE Wellness:
 RVIV Wellness

Hope for Prisoners:
https://hopeforprisoners.org/