Johnson City, TN, Is Building a Strong Workforce Pipeline
Through collaborative efforts led by business leaders and organizations, such as the First Tennessee Development District, Johnson City is working to create strong workforce pipelines, paving the way for sustainable job creation, talent development and long-term economic prosperity.
Bridging the Skills Gap
The First Tennessee Development District is at the forefront of workforce development in the region. This association of local governments works with industry leaders, schools, colleges and universities to address common challenges, such as the gap between the skills workers have and the skills businesses need. By introducing students to local careers and connecting businesses to prospective employees at an early age, the Development District is helping to deepen the talent pool and ensure that growing industries have access to qualified talent for years to come.
“We’ve done a lot of work in terms of getting businesses interested in helping develop the pipeline beginning in high school and younger. We do a lot of career exploration events, which expose students to both the pathway for education and employment in the various sectors in our economy,” says Lottie Ryans, director of workforce and literacy initiatives with the First Tennessee Development District.
One of the organization’s events, CareerQuest Tennessee, hosts students in a competition during which they learn about the various aspects of running a business, including accounting, human resources, marketing and auditing.
“They get to practice interview skills and get feedback from people who actually do the hiring at their companies,” Ryans says. “Recently, we introduced CareerQuest Tennessee Hospitality Works, recognizing what an important piece of the economy hospitality and tourism are in our region. Students learn about careers in outdoor and recreation marketing and events planning. They also learn about food and accommodations and just how important tourism and related industries are for our region.”
Where the Future Takes Flight
In nearby Piney Flats, Bell operates a major helicopter completion and service center. The facility is focused on the customization and delivery of new Bell helicopters, maintenance, repair and overhaul offerings, refurbishment of existing commercial Bell aircraft, as well as manufacturing and distributing rotorcraft parts and accessories for all major helicopter manufacturers.
Beyond its service capabilities, Bell provides an immersive environment where students are able to work directly with cutting-edge aircrafts, bridging the gap between the classroom and the hangar.
Bell has partnered with the First Tennessee Development District to engage with students and introduce them to career pathways in aviation advanced manufacturing.
“This collaboration not only strengthens our talent pipeline but further supports the region’s workforce development efforts,” says Rebecca Oster, HR site lead for Bell in Piney Flats.
Oster says the company also partners with local schools to recruit students for its work-based learning program and with colleges and universities for its co-op program and traditional internships. She says these relationships have led to 50 high school students participating since 2023 and eight students receiving full-time positions with the company after graduation.
“Collectively, these programs help develop talent not only for Bell but for the broader industry. There is a known gap in skilled labor resources. As industry leaders, we need to actively participate to support the knowledge and growth of the next generations,” Oster says.
Powering Tomorrow’s Workforce
BWXT, a company that develops nuclear technology, components and services for government and commercial customers, also plays a vital role in workforce development in the region through a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at nurturing local talent.
The company offers a Goal Card Program with Unicoi County Middle School that promotes and rewards students for good behavior, grades and attendance. The company also hosts a high school co-op program and college internships that provide valuable hands-on learning opportunities for students.
“BWXT prioritizes talent development in key disciplines that align closely with the region’s economic needs. The company emphasizes workforce recruitment in STEM fields, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped with the skills necessary for future innovation,” says John Dobken, senior manager, media and public relations, for BWXT.
The company also focuses on specialized areas such as machining and metalworking, as well as chemical processing and environmental protection, critical to the local economy.
“By fostering skills in these essential sectors, BWXT not only enhances its workforce but also contributes significantly to the economic vitality of the region, aligning its goals with the community’s broader economic development strategies,” Dobken says.
Get to Know Johnson City, TN
Want to learn more about living and working in Johnson City, TN? Check out the latest edition of Livability Johnson City, Jonesborough-Washington County, TN.