Transforming Communities with GRIT
February 26-27th, 2025
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GRIT Interviews
Conference Details
Agenda
Day 1 – Wednesday, February 26th
Location: Theater Room
Speakers: Crystal Keaton, Kristy Amy, Sandy Mers, Sherrie Myers, Chasity Schmelzenbach
Learn about the resources that GRIT Project provides for partner communities; how to get started in building your community coalition; and how to expand.
Preparing Students for 21st-Century Careers with Personalized Learning
Location: Grand Pavilion
Facilitator: Dan Leffingwell (Future Plans)
Speakers: Greg Gifford- Caldwell Schools, Brent Ripley – Bridgeport Schools, Doug Hale- Chesapeake Schools, Matt Bowen- Campbell Schools, Todd Whiteman – Foxfire Schools, Brock Brewster – Pike Western Schools, Justin Denius – Noble Local Schools.
Join for a deep dive session with insights from a panel of school district superintendents who are blazing the trail with reinventing the high school model to integrate careers and workforce into focused outcomes.
Appalachian Leaders: Becoming People of Influence
Location: Ballroom
Speaker: Denise Reading
Learn the Core Skills to Becoming a Success Advocate for the Region, Your Organization, The People You Serve.
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Location: Theater Room
Facilitator: Chasity Schmelzenbach (Buckeye Hills Regional Council)
Speakers: Colby Hall (Kentucky SOAR), Mary Ann Kochalko, (Mahoning/Columbiana Workforce Board), Conida Hawk (Care Source)
Build a workforce ecosystem to drive economic change in a rural community. Learn how to identify emerging markets, overcome mass layoffs of large industries and build hope for a vibrant “new” community
Unlocking Potential: Program Strategies for Re-Entry Career Success
Location: Ballroom
Facilitator: Brandi Hawthorne
Speakers: Carol Baden (Recovery Ohio,) Edna Staten (Adams / Brown OMJ), Ronnie Burkes (Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction), Hope McAfee (Jefferson CAC)
This session will explore effective program strategies for supporting individuals in re-entry as they transition back into the workforce. Learn from experts in the field, including representatives from Recovery Ohio, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, and community support organizations, as they share insights and resources aimed at fostering long-term career success for re-entry individuals. Whether you’re a service provider or an advocate, this session will equip you with practical tools to help unlock the potential of those facing barriers to employment.
View JobsWorkFlyer
View The Talent You’re Missing
View Resource Brochure
View Future Plans Guide
Developing Young Talent
Location: Grand Pavilion
Facilitator: Shae Ballard Ashtabula Tech
Speakers will lead a discussion with a panel of students who have participated in GRIT Workforce training.
The second part of this session will feature movement of attendees rotating on specific related topics for best practice sharing, personalized Q&A and interaction.
Mark Bihl- McClain High School, Building Community and School partnerships
Jeremy Ward- BB2C Discovery Events
Eastin Lewellen- Drivers Ed
Cindy Lindamood – Scioto Community Action Organization
Unwind and Connect at the GRIT Networking Event!
Join us in the elegant Grand Pavilion at the Grand Resort from 5:00 – 7:00 PM for an evening of connections and inspiration.
Enjoy delicious heavy appetizers and a cash bar as you mingle with fellow attendees, sponsors, and keynote speaker Coach D. Explore sponsor tables and discover how their organizations are driving meaningful change, or stop by Coach D’s table to learn more about their insights and mission.
This is your chance to make valuable connections, share ideas, and kick off the GRIT Days of Learning with energy and excitement!
Day 2 – Thursday, February 27th
Meaningful employment can be a catalyst for change, not just for individuals but for entire communities. In this motivational and informative keynote, Coach D will explore how one person’s journey to finding meaningful work can set a powerful example, transforming the lives of their family and others around them. It takes “GRIT” to press though to success!
Location: Grand Pavilion
Speakers: Justin Denius and Trevor Tom from Noble Local Schools
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Building Coalitions for Localized Healthcare
Location: Theater Room
Speakers: Randy Leite, Executive Director, Appalachia Children’s Coalition
Collaboration is key to addressing healthcare challenges in rural and Appalachian communities. This session will explore how to build and sustain rural health collaborations that improve access to care, reduce disparities, and create long-term solutions. Attendees will learn about different coalition models, essential steps for partnership development, and strategies for securing funding and community engagement. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, policymaker, or community leader, this session will provide actionable insights for strengthening healthcare networks and advocating for lasting change.
Empowering Self-Care in Workforce Development
Location: Ballroom
Speaker: Coach D
Equip yourself with tools to make self-care a daily habit. Working in a “helps” industry often means dedicating immense time to supporting others, while neglecting personal well-being.
Solving for Tough Adult Workforce Barriers in Ashtabula
Location: Vista Room (Near main entrance through The Atrium to back right corner)
Speakers: Shae Ballard (ATech), Debi Zander (ATech), David McGrath (Sunset Transportation & Rentals)
Location: Ballroom
Facilitator: Tasha Werry (BB2C)
Speakers: Amanda Hedrick (Best Ohio), Alex Hertzer, (Mahoning Valley Manufacturing Coalition), Linn Yost (Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition), Rahim Nichols (MAGNET)
Strong industry partnerships are key to addressing workforce challenges and strengthening the talent pipeline in Ohio’s manufacturing sector. This panel will explore how Industry Sector Partnerships (ISPs) were formed, the advantages of collective problem-solving, and best practices for engaging high school students in manufacturing careers. Panelists will share insights on what ISPs are—and aren’t—designed to do, along with actionable steps for building stronger regional partnerships. Whether you’re a manufacturer, educator, or workforce professional, this session will provide practical strategies for developing the future workforce and ensuring long-term industry success.
Unlocking Potential: Collaboration as Key to Ohio’s Workforce Future
Location: Theater Room
Speakers: Clint Knight (Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development), Scott Johnson (Aspyr & Central Ohio Workforce Development Network)
This session will explore innovative strategies for building a stronger workforce through partnership. Learn how Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development has successfully aligned K-12 education with industry needs to better prepare future workers. In Franklin County, the Central Ohio WDN has leveraged the power of collective impact among nonprofits to support employees in crisis and improve employers’ retention rates. Together, their insights will showcase the critical role of collaboration in shaping Ohio’s workforce future.
AI Made Simple
Location: Grand Pavilion
Speakers: Ryan Schiesser & Gary Chaffins, Innovative Consulting
“AI Made Simple” breaks down complex artificial intelligence concepts into practical, everyday applications that organizations are already using successfully throughout Appalachia. Through real-world examples and demonstrations, this presentation shows how AI technology can enhance existing workflows while maintaining the human touch that makes each organization unique.
Building Coalitions and Advocacy for Ohio to Fund Lasting Impact
Location: Ballroom
Location: Ballroom
Facilitator: Jennifer Meek Eells (Ohio Workforce Association)
Panel- Julie Bolender (Highland County), Rick Szabrak (Workforce Development Board Area 20), Rocky Rockhold (Greater Ohio Workforce Board Inc.)
The panel will explore how a well-prepared workforce serves as a key determinant for attracting business investments and spurring economic growth in the region. Participants will learn about successful workforce development initiatives, the importance of aligning skills with industry needs, and the role of collaborative partnerships in enhancing workforce readiness. This session is perfect for economic developers, business leaders, and policy makers looking to understand and leverage the power of workforce development in driving investment and growth in Ohio.
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Data Driven Workforce Planning
Location: Grand Pavilion
Terri Bennett and Kristy Amy (Future Plans)
Participants will learn how to use the economic data to analyze the local talent pipeline needs. You will understand the role of the Future Plans career assessment in identifying individuals who have the abilities to fill local needs and how to connect them with training and employers. Gain valuable insights into data-driven decision-making processes that optimize workforce programs and improve outcomes. This session is perfect for all people interested in building a thriving workforce pipeline for their local community.
Economic Leadership in Action: The Birth of Lake to River Economic Development
Location: Theater Room
Speaker: Mike McGiffin, Lake to River
The creation of Lake to River Economic Development was a transformative moment for economic development in our region. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit leading the JobsOhio system in this area, the organization was built through strategic collaboration, political capital, and a commitment to economic growth. With strong backing—including the support of Ohio’s Governor—this initiative is now a driving force behind workforce development, business expansion, and investment attraction. Join us for an inside look at how this organization stood up, the challenges and victories along the way, and what it means for the future of economic and workforce development in Ohio.
Venue Map
Speakers
Denise Reading (Day 1 – Afternoon)
A true change-maker, Dr. Reading has used her influence to create groundbreaking initiatives, from establishing the first residential college program for teen moms to launching global workforce development programs that have impacted Fortune 1000 companies across 50 states and 40 countries. Her ability to build relationships, raise funding for critical causes, and drive meaningful change makes her the perfect leader to inspire you to become a person of influence!
We all have the power to create change, but how do we harness it effectively? In this inspiring and actionable session, Dr. Reading—Co-founder of the GRIT Project and CEO of Future Plans—will guide participants in developing the skills to move from wishing to acting with confidence in their ability to influence decisions in their work, communities, schools, and beyond.
Learn how to:
- Identify key issues or opportunities you want to influence
- Determine who must be influenced for change to happen
- Build trust and communicate effectively
- Recognize and utilize your existing circle of influence
- Overcome barriers and develop an action plan for success
Darrell “Coach D” Andrews (Day 2 – Morning)
Darrell “Coach D” Andrews is an internationally recognized workforce development consultant, strategist, and motivator. He is the President and Chief Passion Officer of Darrell Andrews, LLC and Associates. For the past two decades, he and his team of experts have provided consulting, motivational training, coaching, and speeches that enhance innovation at workforce development agencies and education organizations.
Coach D is the author of several books, including “How To Find Your Passion And Make A Living At It,” “The Purpose Living Teen-A Teen’s Guide To Living Your Dreams,” and “Reinvention-The Pathway To Job Search Success.” His college success story, “5 Garbage Bags and a Dream,” was one of the top stories in the New York Times best seller-Chicken Soup for the African American Soul.
Bill Johnson (Day 2 – Afternoon)
A Leader Across Sectors: With a distinguished 26-year military career, leadership in high-tech business ventures, and 13 years as a U.S. Congressman, President Johnson brings a wealth of experience in strategic vision, innovation, and advocacy.
Champion for Economic Growth: His expertise in coalition-building and funding strategies has helped drive sustainable progress in education, workforce development, and community initiatives.
💡Key Takeaways from His Keynote:
Gain insights from a leader with real-world experience in advocacy and economic development.
Learn how to build strong coalitions to drive impactful change.
Discover strategies for securing sustainable funding for community and workforce initiatives.
Premier Sponsors
Champion Sponsors
Advocate Sponsors
