WC Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Season 6- Episode 26: Adrian Reaux & Doug Brost Oct 06, 2026

Show notes

Adrian Rowe, general manager of Corporate Talent Development for Empire Caterpillar, and Doug Bross, training manager for Empire Machinery, share how an innovative workforce partnership is transforming the future of skilled trades. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, they reveal how the Think Big and Go Big programs are connecting K-12 education, community college, and industry to prepare the next generation of heavy equipment technicians for high-paying careers with little to no student debt. From hands-on training and paid internships to life-changing career opportunities, this episode offers a powerful blueprint for building tomorrow's workforce.

Empire Cat:
Empire Cat ThinkBIG

NV My Future Workbook:
NV My Future

Season 6- Episode 25: Olivia Diaz Aug 26, 2026

Show notes

Olivia Diaz, Mayor Pro Tem and Ward 3 Councilwoman for the City of Las Vegas, returns to the Workforce Connections Podcast to share her journey from the classroom to public service and the vision shaping Southern Nevada's future. In this episode, Olivia discusses expanding access to education and workforce training, creating pathways to high-wage careers, and investing in opportunities that empower the next generation. From the Westside Education and Training Center to the future Eastside Education and Training Center, she shares how these transformational investments are expanding educational opportunities and preparing Southern Nevadans for tomorrow's workforce.
City of Las Vegas: https://www.lasvegasnevada.gov/

Westside Education Training Center: https://news.csn.edu/wetc/
¡Ándale! 5K Run/Walk: https://www.andale5k.com/

Season 6- Episode 24: Molly Hamrick Aug 18, 2026

Show notes

Molly Hamrick, president and chief executive officer of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty and Coldwell Banker Commercial Premier, shares the inspiring journey that took her from a Las Vegas native with big dreams to one of Southern Nevada's most respected business leaders. In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, Molly reveals how leadership, mentorship, and a passion for helping others build generational wealth are creating opportunities for families while strengthening Southern Nevada's future. From affordable housing and economic development to giving back through service, her story is a powerful reminder that success is built on relationships, hard work, and investing in others.

Coldwell Banker Premier Realty:
https://www.coldwellbanker.com/nv/las-vegas/offices/coldwell-banker-premier-realty/oid-P00400000FSjgReMm6QdnalpsrlEjFvrDbXlNtLV

Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA):
https://lvgea.org/

Season 6- Episode 23: Tom Burns and Dorian Stonebarger Aug 11, 2026

Show notes

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/

Season 6- Episode 22: Christine Maddela Aug 04, 2026

Show notes

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/

Season 6- Episode 21: Brian Knudsen Jul 28, 2026

Show notes

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

Season 6- Episode 20: Dale Erquiaga and Caleb Cage Jul 22, 2026

Show notes

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

Season 6- Episode 19: Peter Guzman Jul 14, 2026

Show notes

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/

Season 6- Episode 18: Hector Fernandez Jul 07, 2026

Show notes

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

Season 6- Episode 17: Bobbi Damrow Jul 02, 2026

Show notes

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.

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