Episode #25
Driving Workforce Development with Andrew Hudson
Join us on this episode of City Chatt as host Chrystal Houston sits down with Dr. Andrew Hudson, the City of Chattanooga’s Director of Workforce Development Strategy. We break down the new "One Chattanooga Works" initiative—a strategic, data-driven system designed to move beyond disconnected training and toward true economic mobility for Chattanoogans. From the launch of the Chattanooga.Works job marketplace to the shift toward helping prime-age workers (25–54) upskill for the local jobs of today and tomorrow, Andrew explains how the city is acting as a "strategic quarterback" to restore dignity, trust, and opportunity for every Chattanoogan. Redefining Workforce Development: Andrew explains the shift from a "train and pray" model—where individuals get certificates without clear job prospects—to a "job-first" approach that aligns training directly with current local labor market demand. The "One Chattanooga Works" Platform: An overview of the Chattanooga.Works digital marketplace, which serves as a central hub for employers, job seekers, and training partners to connect, matching individuals to open roles more efficiently. Targeting Key Sectors: Insights into the manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, quantum technology, and outdoor recreation sectors, and how the city is identifying specific short-term credentials needed to fill these high-growth roles. The "Strategic Quarterback" Model: How the city is fostering collaboration across public and private entities to create a system rather than just a series of isolated programs, ensuring resources are used effectively to support economic mobility. Do you know someone in Chattanooga who is looking for a job? Encourage anyone seeking employment or professional opportunities to visit Chattanooga.Works to create a profile and apply for jobs. Links Chattanooga.works Small Business Resource Center
