The Utility Player Advantage, Part 1

Successful workforce initiatives don't happen by accident—they're built on intentional partnerships, scalable systems, and a relentless focus on students. Kristi Williamson joins Innovation Unplugged to discuss what it takes to move beyond isolated success stories and create workforce models that endure. Together, they explore the future of adult education, the evolving role of community colleges, leadership lessons learned over more than two decades, and why collaboration is the key to expanding economic opportunity.

Can one campus change the future of an entire community? In this episode of Innovation Unplugged, Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton visit with Jason Davidson, Superintendent of Jackson County Schools, to explore the remarkable story behind the Kevin Dukes Career and Innovation Academy. From advanced career technical programs and cutting-edge STEM labs to fine arts, community partnerships, and workforce training, the academy serves as a hub where education and economic development intersect. Jason shares how honoring Kevin Dukes' vision has created one of Alabama's most innovative learning environments—one designed to prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success while helping meet the workforce needs of tomorrow.

What happens when strong relationships become the foundation for workforce development across an entire state?In this episode of Innovation Unplugged, Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton sit down with Drew Haney to explore how the Alabama Community College System's External Affairs team connects colleges, businesses, industry partners, and communities with a shared purpose. Drew shares how intentional communication, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to breaking down silos help create new opportunities for training, employment, and economic growth. The conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the collaborative work that keeps Alabama's workforce ecosystem connected and moving forward.

The next era of military and commercial technology may be decided by who can build the best drones—and build them fastest. In this episode, Jamie Waller shares how his background in propulsion engineering led him to launch RATE Manufacturing and develop a drone platform designed for speed, adaptability, and high-rate production. Houston and Jamie explore America’s growing focus on drone dominance, the importance of domestic manufacturing, and how innovative companies are positioning themselves to support emerging defense initiatives aimed at rapidly scaling unmanned aircraft capabilities. It’s a conversation about engineering, entrepreneurship, and the race to define the future of aviation.

What does it mean for a college system to be more than a college system? In this episode of Innovation Unplugged, Charles Jones discusses how ACCS has expanded its role to become a trusted partner for employers, communities, and individuals across Alabama. Building on the lessons of personal growth and adaptability from Part One, this conversation explores how the system itself has developed a broader toolbox—one designed to respond to workforce needs, support economic growth, and create opportunity wherever it’s needed most. The discussion is a compelling look at why the future belongs to organizations that can adapt, connect, and solve problems

Careers rarely follow a straight line—and that’s often where the greatest opportunities are found. In Part One of this two-part series, Charles Jones shares the lessons learned from a lifetime of saying yes to new challenges. Houston explores how leadership, hands-on work, education, certifications, and diverse experiences combined to create a foundation that could adapt to almost any situation. It’s a conversation about preparing for opportunities before they arrive, building confidence through competence, and understanding why every skill you gain today may become the key to tomorrow’s success.

Workforce development is about more than jobs—it’s about helping people believe their future can look different.In this episode of Innovation Unplugged, Houston Blackwood talks with Anthony Steele about overcoming addiction, finding recovery, and rebuilding his life through the support of Wallace State Community College and Skills for Success programs. Anthony shares how earning his CDL and GED opened doors to employment, stability, and renewed confidence as a husband, father, and professional.This conversation is an honest look at resilience, personal accountability, and the powerful role community colleges can play in helping people move from survival to purpose-driven success.

Strong workforce systems are built when education, industry, and leadership move together.In this episode of Innovation Unplugged, Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton welcome Andy Chamness for a discussion on career technical education, workforce partnerships, and the future of craft training in Alabama. As both an education leader and pastor, Andy shares how faith, mentorship, and service have shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to helping students succeed.The conversation highlights the opportunities ahead for skilled trades, the importance of apprenticeship-style learning, and why meaningful impact starts with investing in people and communities.

What does it take to grow a business while also investing in people and communities?In this episode of Innovation Unplugged, Devoski Boyd joins Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton for a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, workforce development, and long-term vision. As the leader of Boyd Walton Construction, Devoski discusses how field experience, operational discipline, and workforce training shaped his approach to leadership and business growth.The discussion also highlights the importance of Skills for Success training, the opportunities emerging across Alabama, and why sustainable development must be connected to workforce readiness and community impact.

What happens when decades of experience in classrooms, career tech education, and workforce leadership all converge in one mission?In this episode of Innovation Unplugged, Houston Blackwood and Matt Heaton sit down with Dr. Chris Kennedy to discuss his transition from K-12 leadership into workforce development at Wallace Community College. From agriculture classrooms to statewide leadership roles, Dr. Kennedy reflects on the lessons learned serving students, supporting teachers, and building career pathways that create real opportunity.The conversation explores the future of workforce development in the Wiregrass region, the importance of partnerships between education and industry, and why helping students discover purpose still drives the work today.