Open Jobs Report: Analysis and Review, October 2020

Robert Boone possesses a unique depth of workforce development experience earned from the private health care, post-secondary education, and non-profit sectors. Dr. Boone currently serves as the founding president/CEO of the South Central Workforce Development Board and its non-profit community enterprise, Employward, Inc. Dr. Boone has a track record of leading an entrepreneurial and systems-based approach to building workforce development organizations. Dr. Boone is recognized as an expert in innovative program design and delivery in workforce development; organizational strategic planning and transformation; and the orchestration of technology platforms to create large-scale solutions, resulting in performance-based and customer-centered workforce systems.

Dr. Boone holds a bachelor of science (BS) degree in psychology (with an emphasis on Industrial/Organizational Psychology) from The University of Georgia; a master of public administration (MPA) in non-profit management and community development from Morehead State University, where he graduated at the top of his class and was recognized as the MSU College of Business and Public Affairs' 2014 "Outstanding Graduate Student;" and a doctorate in education policy, measurement, and evaluation (EdD) from the University of Kentucky, with dissertation research focusing on work-based learning opportunities (WBLOs) as an impactful mechanism to transmit workplace-specific cultural capital to “first-generation career seekers,” a term he coined based on this research.

As a career officer in the United States Army, I had the great fortune to lead multiple organizations, manage talent, plan projects, execute operations, manage risk and develop workforce training programs. By nature, I am an action-oriented problem solver who enjoys conceptualizing and communicating innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Prior to leaving the military, I was blessed to serve with the US Army Soldier for Life program. My job, on behalf of the Department of the Army, was to engage communities, industries, government agencies, non-profits organizations and corporations.... all in an effort to better CONNECT our transitioning Soldiers and Veterans to the numerous employment, education and/or health resources that exist in communities across the country. It was truly noble and rewarding work.

Fortunately, I get to CONTINUE TO SERVE in a new (but familiar) capacity. As the Vice President of Operations for the South Central Workforce Development Board and it's non-profit organization, Employward, I will lead our effort to develop innovative employment and training programs for Transitioning Military, New American/ International Workers, Secondary and Post-Secondary Education Graduates and individuals who have barriers to employment within a 10-county region.

As the Vice President of Outreach and Communications for the South Central Workforce Development Board since January 2019, Leslie Witty furthers her career span in education and workforce development to nearly 30 years. She served as a high school teacher, coach and administrator in Warren County before becoming a trainer and then Program Manager for WKU’s Career and Workforce Development & later for WKU Learn and Earn Scholarship Program (now the KYhirED Scholarship Program.) She has created, delivered and managed an extensive number of soft skill courses and programs, both for the workplace and for college students. Her extensive experience in Communication can also be seen through the marketing, branding and social media she produces for the South Central Workforce Development Board.
Witty is passionate about strengthening Ky’s workforce, economic development, and its educational opportunities/attainment.