Griffin, Heath Attend Tennessee Workforce Development Academy

McKenzie Mayor Ryan Griffin and McKenzie Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Development Director Monica Heath joined workforce development professionals from across the state in Cookeville March 3–5 for the Tennessee Workforce Development (TNWFD) Academy.

The multi-day professional development experience focused on strengthening Tennessee’s workforce system through expert-led instruction, applied learning and shared expertise.

The academy attracted 51 professionals representing communities across Tennessee and reflected the diverse stakeholders shaping workforce development efforts statewide. Participants included representatives from state government agencies, local workforce development boards, the private sector, higher education and economic development organizations.

Over the two-and-a-half-day training, participants engaged in interactive sessions centered on practical strategies, emerging trends and peer-to-peer learning. These sessions were designed to enhance workforce development practices while supporting stronger alignment with economic development priorities.

Equally important, the academy created space for meaningful dialogue, allowing participants to learn from one another’s experiences and build connections that will last beyond the academy.

The course concluded with a graduation ceremony that recognized the participants’ commitment to professional growth and collaboration.

“This class helped strengthen my understanding of how closely workforce and economic development are connected,” said Heath. “One of my biggest takeaways was that strong communities do not happen by accident—they are built through partnerships, planning and being intentional. I also took away how important it is to listen to employers, use workforce data and make sure education and training are aligned with real industry needs. With how fast technology is changing, it is also clear that soft skills, adaptability and digital skills are more important than ever.”

Strong attendance and engagement throughout the TNWFD Academy showed the continued commitment of Tennessee’s workforce professionals to lifelong learning and collaboration, two key components in building a resilient workforce and supporting the state’s long-term economic growth.