Austin Hires Local

How did a childhood knack for solving the Rubik’s Cube springboard Rob Neville into college, and eventually a career in workforce development?

Host Tamara Atkinson sits down for an inspirational conversation with Rob, now president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Texas. His journey, from a young author to a leader in the nonprofit sector, is a deeply personal story, shaped by experiences in South Africa, personal loss, and professional triumphs. He discusses how Nelson Mandela’s legacy of social justice drives his commitment to education and equity.

Rob candidly addresses the challenges of transitioning from corporate life to nonprofit leadership, highlighting Goodwill’s innovative revenue models that support vital programs for underserved communities. Tune in to discover the transformative role Goodwill is playing in workforce development and how it’s reshaping education and employment opportunities.

Rob Neville is the president and CEO of Goodwill Central Texas, bringing over 25 years of diverse experience in development and operations across the life sciences, software, healthcare IT, venture capital, and nonprofit sectors. Originally from South Africa, he has lived in Austin for more than two decades, previously serving as founder and CEO of Savara (NASDAQ: SVRA) and leading Springbok Ventures. A multiple-time finalist for the E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Rob won in 2018 and has judged the awards in 2021 and 2022. He is also active in nonprofit work, co-founding a 501(c)(3) for at-risk youth and serving on the boards of various organizations.

In This Episode:

• (00:00) Introduction of guest Rob Neville, President and CEO of Goodwill Central Texas
• (09:00) Early life in South Africa, Nelson Mandela, education
• (12:24) Journey from South Africa to Austin TX, and how Rob became connected with Goodwill
• (16:50) The far-reaching network of programs offered by Goodwill
• (18:00) Generating stable revenue with non-profit business models
• (21:21) A touching story about a Goodwill employee, priorities going forward, expanding childcare
• (26:00) What “hire local” means to Rob and Goodwill, using AI in the big picture to narrow the wealth gap
• (30:32) How Goodwill is using AI in pilot programs
• (34:00) AI conversations in Goodwills across the country
• (36:00) Rapid fire questions
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!

About the show:

Austin Hires Local, powered by Workforce Solutions Capital Area and hosted by WFS CEO Tamara Atkinson, dives deep with the trailblazers who are shaping the future of jobs in our city, our state, and even nationally. We pull back the curtain on the challenges we all face – the anxieties, the roadblocks, and what's holding us back from filling those critical open positions. But hey, it's not all doom and gloom. We also celebrate the victories: the ingenious solutions, the unexpected collaborations, and the best practices that are making us all sharper. You’ll hear guests from all sides of the table – elected officials with a finger on the pulse of the economy, industry leaders from booming sectors like tech, healthcare, and skilled trades, and educators shaping young minds in our schools and post-secondary education programs. So, tune in and get ready to be informed, inspired, and maybe even surprised by the future of work in Austin.

Resources:

Rob Neville LinkedIn

Goodwill Central TexasWorkforce Solutions Capital Area

Tamara Atkinson LinkedIn

Thank you to our sponsor: Texas Mutual

About Workforce Solutions Capital Area:
Workforce Solutions is the state-designated authority for the data-driven planning, oversight, and evaluation of workforce development activities in Austin-Travis County. They connect local people to the most in-demand industries with quality jobs. These specialized services are provided at no cost - including career training, apprenticeship programs, scholarships, job search assistance, child care assistance, tailored business solutions and more.

In this episode, host Tamara Atkinson of WFS sits down with Stacy Armijo, Chief Experience Officer at Amplify Credit Union. Stacy offers valuable insights into her nontraditional career path from PR to finance and provides advice for those looking to switch industries. You’ll hear about the evolving demands within the banking sector, including the impact of technology and the qualities of ideal job candidates. Stacy also delves into Amplify’s commitment to financial inclusion through its ‘fee-free’ banking approach and the Co.Labs partnership with Workforce Solutions, which aims to connect local individuals with financial resources and opportunities. We explore how these initiatives support underserved communities and align with Austin's 'Hire Local' vision. Stacy’s community leadership extends beyond banking, and she shares how her experience and involvement in local community initiatives shape her approach to financial inclusion.

Stacy Armijo is the Chief Experience Officer for Amplify Credit Union, which has nearly $3 billion in assets under management serving businesses and consumers throughout the state of Texas. She leads the marketing, retail, payments, and talent teams to ensure a seamless experience for members and the community. With extensive marketing expertise, Armijo has served as the national board chair for the American Marketing Association and holds various influential roles locally and nationally. An active community leader, she serves on the board of directors of the Austin Area Research Organization and Peak Performers and is involved with organizations like The New Philanthropists and Communities in Schools of Central Texas. Recognized as a “Woman of Influence” by the Austin Business Journal, she earned her degree in public relations from UT Austin and enjoys time with her two boys and trying out new cocktail recipes for her friends as an amateur bartender.

In This Episode:

• (00:00) Introduction of Stacy Armijo, cocktails and first jobs
• (05:30) Career transitions - PR to Finance
• (10:00) Advice for career-change-seekers transitioning into another industry
• (15:00) Ideal candidates in the banking industry, tech in the industry
• (17:50) Amplify, ‘fee-free’, and why you should care
• (21:15) The partnership with WFS, and Amplify Co.Labs
• (23:30) Creation of the very first ‘fee-free’ cocktail
• (26:20) What “hire local” means to Stacy and Amplify
• (28:00) Looking forward, commercial banking services
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!

About the show:

Austin Hires Local, powered by Workforce Solutions Capital Area and hosted by WFS CEO Tamara Atkinson, dives deep with the trailblazers who are shaping the future of jobs in our city, our state, and even nationally. We pull back the curtain on the challenges we all face – the anxieties, the roadblocks, and what's holding us back from filling those critical open positions. But hey, it's not all doom and gloom. We also celebrate the victories: the ingenious solutions, the unexpected collaborations, and the best practices that are making us all sharper. You’ll hear guests from all sides of the table – elected officials with a finger on the pulse of the economy, industry leaders from booming sectors like tech, healthcare, and skilled trades, and educators shaping young minds in our schools and post-secondary education programs. So, tune in and get ready to be informed, inspired, and maybe even surprised by the future of work in Austin.

Resources:

Stacy Armijo

Amplify Credit Union Workforce Solutions Capital Area

Tamara Atkinson LinkedIn

Amplify banking partnership with Workforce Solutions

About Workforce Solutions Capital Area:
Workforce Solutions is the state-designated authority for the data-driven planning, oversight, and evaluation of workforce development activities in Austin-Travis County. They connect local people to the most in-demand industries with quality jobs. These specialized services are provided at no cost - including career training, apprenticeship programs, scholarships, job search assistance, child care assistance, tailored business solutions and more.

Originally filmed Oct 24, 2024

How does the "Tool Belt Diva," Melanie Flowers, transform her passion for building into groundbreaking workforce development strategies?
Today on Austin Hires Local, Tamara Atkinson welcomes Melanie Flowers, board member of Workforce Solutions Capital Area and recently-appointed board officer for the National Association of Workforce Boards, to talk about the vital role of apprenticeships and the benefits of the ‘earn-and-learn model’ for both workers and businesses. Apprenticeship programs strike a careful balance between providing a valuable education and respecting the apprentice’s time and financial responsibilities to help shape a skilled workforce.

Looking out on a national scale, the same challenges exist across many workforce boards in urban and rural landscapes. The reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) bears significant implications for funding workforce initiatives. Considering potential shifts in federal priorities after the elections, there is a need for ongoing support and adaptability to meet evolving community needs. Join us as we uncover the dynamic intersection of education, economy, and opportunity and explore innovative strategies reshaping the workforce landscape.

Melanie Flowers - With over 25 years of experience in corporate training and workforce development, Melanie is currently the Chief Workforce Strategy Officer at Craft Education, an education technology leader focused on apprentice-based programs. She has previously served as VP of Industry Partnerships at Pathful, Inc. and Senior Manager of Technical Training at Samsung Austin Semiconductor. Melanie is an active board member and former chair of Workforce Solutions Capital Area and Skillpoint Alliance and recently joined the National Association of Workforce Boards as a board officer. She holds numerous certifications and is a respected industry thought leader.

In This Episode:

• (00:00) Introduction of guest Melanie Flowers, unofficial title of “The Tool Belt Diva”, building the podcast set for Austin Hires Local
• (04:43) Why Melanie is a champion for apprenticeship in her professional roles, and why apprenticeship is a proven way to support workers and meet business needs, debunking narrow perceptions of apprenticeship -- how more non-traditional industries are adopting earn-and-learn models
• (07:00) Registered apprenticeship programs vs non-registered apprenticeship programs, how funding can be available for both, and what business leaders should know if they're on the fence or never considered adopting an apprenticeship model
• (09:00) Melanie's journey to becoming a board member with Workforce Solutions Capital Area
• (10:55) Industry sector partnership impact and uncovering surprising ways Workforce Solutions can help, advice for anyone interested in getting involved
• (18:00) “Rose, bud, and thorn" from Melanie's unique national vantage point as board officer for the National Association of Workforce Boards, including “thorn” of the WIOA (Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act) federal funding reauthorization.
• (22:00) Recognizing that childcare is a massive part of workforce training
• (25:00) Melanie's vision for a successful workforce development ecosystem, including starting earlier in schools -- even as young as kindergarten
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!

About the show:

Austin Hires Local, powered by Workforce Solutions Capital Area and hosted by WFS CEO Tamara Atkinson, dives deep with the trailblazers who are shaping the future of jobs in our city, our state, and even nationally. We pull back the curtain on the challenges we all face – the anxieties, the roadblocks, and what's holding us back from filling those critical open positions. But hey, it's not all doom and gloom. We also celebrate the victories: the ingenious solutions, the unexpected collaborations, and the best practices that are making us all sharper. You’ll hear guests from all sides of the table – elected officials with a finger on the pulse of the economy, industry leaders from booming sectors like tech, healthcare, and skilled trades, and educators shaping young minds in our schools and post-secondary education programs. So, tune in and get ready to be informed, inspired, and maybe even surprised by the future of work in Austin.

Resources:

Melanie Flowers LinkedInWorkforce Solutions Capital AreaWorkforce Solutions Capital Area apprenticeships webpageTamara Atkinson L...

Why is the Texas Workforce Commission and workforce boards often referred to as one of the state's "best-kept secrets"—a label that suggests they may not be receiving the attention they deserve—and how are they impacting the lives of workers and their families?
Today on Austin Hires Local, Tamara Atkinson welcomes Texas Workforce Commissioner Alberto Treviño, a seasoned law enforcement veteran turned labor advocate. Commissioner Treviño speaks about the challenges and opportunities within workforce development, drawing from his many years of experience in law enforcement and border patrol. We examine how rapid growth within organizations can test the mettle of leadership, as well as the importance of unions in addressing issues such as scheduling and resources. Treviño highlights the crucial work of the Texas Workforce Commission in aligning skills with market demands, including programs such as registered apprenticeship that provide valuable training opportunities. The dedication of the Texas Workforce Commission and workforce boards has had a profound impact on workers and families, and you’ll soon discover why they’re one of the state's "best-kept secrets”.

Alberto Treviño III serves as the Commissioner Representing Labor for the Texas Workforce Commission. He was appointed by Governor Greg Abbott to the three-member Commission and confirmed by the Texas Senate in 2023. Commissioner Treviño is retired from the U.S. Border Patrol, and has served over 30 years in law enforcement as an agent, police instructor, background investigator and patrol officer. He also served as treasurer and executive vice president for the Local 3307 of the National Border Patrol.

In This Episode:

• (00:00) Red Solo Cup mixups, school nicknames, first job repairing sewing machines
• (05:21) "Flat CAT" (a nod to Flat Stanley) to help the CAT (“Commissioner Alberto Treviño”) travel across Texas so he could "be everywhere at once", interesting places CAT went
• (08:45) What inspired the Commissioner to get interested in law enforcement? His extensive 33-year career, leadership style, and what factors influence his approach
• (12:50) Union experience and lessons learned on the Border Patrol, continuing services as an intermediary between workers and employers, a humorous anecdote
• (17:25) Giving back to the community, Knights of Columbus, little league, and tennis roles
• (21:30) An interesting pre-TSA airport story, learning critical phrases in seven languages
• (23:40) Challenging and pressing issues in the state of Texas, solutions and approaches, apprenticeships, National Apprenticeship Week
• (27:00) Closing thoughts
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!
  

About the show: Austin Hires Local, powered by Workforce Solutions Capital Area and hosted by WFS CEO Tamara Atkinson, dives deep with the trailblazers who are shaping the future of jobs in our city, our state, and even nationally. We pull back the curtain on the challenges we all face – the anxieties, the roadblocks, and what's holding us back from filling those critical open positions. But hey, it's not all doom and gloom. We also celebrate the victories: the ingenious solutions, the unexpected collaborations, and the best practices that are making us all sharper. You’ll hear guests from all sides of the table – elected officials with a finger on the pulse of the economy, industry leaders from booming sectors like tech, healthcare, and skilled trades, and educators shaping young minds in our schools and post-secondary education programs. So, tune in and get ready to be informed, inspired, and maybe even surprised by the future of work in Austin.

Resources:

Office of the Commissioner Representing LaborWorkforce Solutions Capital AreaTamara Atkinson LinkedInThank you to our sponsor: Texas Mutual

About Workforce Solutions Capital Area:
Workforce Solutions is the state-designated authority for the data-driven planning, oversight, and evaluation of workforce development activities in Austin-Travis County. They connect local people to the most in-demand industries with quality jobs. These specialized services are provided at no cost - including career training, apprenticeship programs, scholarships, job search assistance, child care assistance, tailored business solutions and more.

How does child care investment, more transportation options, and a robust mental health network contribute to building a more inclusive and thriving community in Travis County?

In this episode, host Tamara Atkinson of Workforce Solutions Capital Area delves into the future of workforce development and child care advocacy in the rapidly growing Austin metro area with Travis County Judge Andy Brown. Childcare accessibility remains a critical issue, with ongoing shortages and long waitlists affecting families. Judge Brown explains a proposed ballot measure designed to tackle these challenges, which would stabilize the number of childcare providers and enable more parents to enter the workforce. You’ll hear about the broader efforts in Austin and Travis County to invest in job training and workforce initiatives, including raising the county minimum wage and the establishment of a comprehensive Mental Health Diversion Center, aimed at providing essential care and supportive housing for individuals with mental health needs. The conversation also reveals the ambitious plans of super-region leaders to enhance passenger rail infrastructure, which promises to improve commutes, safety, and economic opportunities. Together, these efforts underscore a strong commitment to building a supportive and inclusive community for all residents.

Travis County Judge Andy Brown is the chief executive of Texas's capital county, overseeing a $1.4 billion annual budget and serving as the Director of Emergency Management. Since taking office, he has prioritized increasing resources for historically underserved communities, focusing on mental and behavioral health, affordable housing, and enhancing transparency in county operations. Before his current role, Judge Brown founded the Sobering Center-Austin as an alternative to jail for intoxicated individuals, established a successful law firm, and engaged with local boards and commissions. He is a proud Austin native and a graduate of The University of Texas School of Law.

In This Episode:

• (00:00) Travis County Judge Andy Brown discusses Austin's population growth and super region with Bexar County, and early job lessons and experiences in Hyde Park
• (06:00) Affordable child care access - investments, improvements and plans
• (10:28) How local child care investment can reduce childcare wait lists, and why residents should care (whether or not they have children)
• (14:37) Travis County priorities in job training and career building, with an example from Austin Community College's Make It Center.
• (17:00) Addressing affordability and workforce impediments in Travis County, including increasing the county minimum wage and building a comprehensive Mental Health Diversion Center to stabilize individuals
• (22:05) Travis County growth estimates, expansion plans for passenger rail infrastructure to connect the super region
• (27:54) Judge Brown's vision for Travis County's future in five years - a supportive, inclusive community for economic growth
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!

About the show:

Austin Hires Local, powered by Workforce Solutions Capital Area and hosted by WFS CEO Tamara Atkinson, dives deep with the trailblazers who are shaping the future of jobs in our city, our state, and even nationally. We pull back the curtain on the challenges we all face – the anxieties, the roadblocks, and what's holding us back from filling those critical open positions. But hey, it's not all doom and gloom. We also celebrate the victories: the ingenious solutions, the unexpected collaborations, and the best practices that are making us all sharper. You’ll hear guests from all sides of the table – elected officials with a finger on the pulse of the economy, industry leaders from booming sectors like tech, healthcare, and skilled trades, and educators shaping young minds in our schools and post-secondary education programs. So, tune in and get ready to be informed, inspired, and maybe even surprised by the future of work in Austin.

Resources:

Judge Andy Brown

Workforce Solutions Capital Area

Tamara Atkinson LinkedIn

About Workforce Solutions Capital Area:
Workforce Solutions is the state-designated authority for the data-driven planning, oversight, and evaluation of workforce development activities in Austin-Travis County. They connect local people to the most in-demand industries with quality jobs. These specialized services are provided at no cost - including career training, apprenticeship programs, scholarships, job sea...