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Strategic Leadership for a Stronger Workforce

Shaping the Future of Workforce Development in Eastern Kentucky

The Eastern Kentucky Workforce Innovation Board (WIB) is a private-sector-led body composed of volunteer members who work to prepare, advance, and expand Eastern Kentucky’s workforce. 

The WIB brings together private-sector leaders across our region and policymakers from the education, economic development, and public arenas. The board’s strategic and policy guidance funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) will improve the opportunities for all citizens to engage in and become productive workforce members. As a result, businesses will be more likely to have the human resources necessary to compete in our global economy. 

  • Developing the Local Plan for workforce innovation
  • Overseeing the local one-stop career center system
  • Providing strategic program oversight
  • Negotiating local performance measures
  • Supporting the development of employment statistics systems
  • Creating and sustaining employer linkages
  • Connecting, brokering, and coaching workforce partners
  • Appointing a Youth Council
  • Identifying eligible providers of training services


Through these efforts, the WIB ensures that Eastern Kentucky’s workforce remains adaptable and ready to meet the demands of a global economy.

Leaders Committed to Workforce Success

Meet Our Workforce Innovation Board Members

The WIB is made up of leaders from the private sector, economic development, education, organized labor, community organizations, and one-stop partner agencies. These members bring unique perspectives and expertise, driving collaborative efforts to build a resilient and dynamic workforce.

Keith Gabbard

Chair
Business

Kevin Chesnut

Vice Chair
Business

Raymond Banks

Business

Bruce Carpenter

Business

Benjamin Collier

Workforce

Kim Combs

Business

Travis Cox

Education & Training

Paul Dole

Workforce

Lisa Fannin

Business

Mikael Fannin

Business

Amy Greene

Business

Jeff Johnson

Business

Preston Jones

Business

William Tal Jones

Government &
Economic Development

Dr. Jennifer Lindon

Workforce

Dennis Messer

workforce

Vince Minix

Workforce

Paul Patton

Education & Training

Tonia Prewitt

Government &
Economic Development

Tracey Smith

Business

Brent Sturgill

Government &
Economic Development

Accountability Through Transparency

Our Commitment to Clear Governance

The Workforce Innovation Board is dedicated to maintaining transparency in how we operate and serve the workforce of Eastern Kentucky. Below, you’ll find documents and policies that guide our decision-making and ensure that resources are used effectively to support our mission.

Beginning with the board’s next quarterly meeting on March 12, 2025, all meetings will be held at the LKLP Community Action Intergenerational Facility located at 145 Citizens Lane, Hazard, KY, unless otherwise notified. EKCEP looks forward to utilizing this new space for its board meetings and appreciates the partnership with LKLP Community Action Council. Members of the public are welcome to attend EKCEP board meetings. Meeting dates and times remain the second Tuesday of each quarter (March, June, September, and December).


Policies for Serving Workforce Clients and Businesses

Explore the WIB’s strategic policies designed to empower jobseekers, support businesses, and promote workforce development throughout the region.


WIOA Regional and Local Plan

The EKCEP Local and Regional Plans for FY2022-2025 outline strategies to align workforce development initiatives with regional economic needs, focusing on career pathways, work-based learning, and data-driven decision-making to enhance employment opportunities in Eastern Kentucky.


WIB Bylaws

Discover the bylaws that outline the structure, roles, and responsibilities of the Workforce Innovation Board.


WIB Meeting Minutes

Stay informed with the latest decisions and discussions from our board meetings. Previous years’ minutes available upon request.


WIB Meeting Schedule

The Board meets quarterly at 145 Citizens Lane, Hazard, KY 41701.

2025 Regular Meeting Schedule

  • March 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
  • June 11, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
  • September 10, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
  • December 10, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

Background image of welder for Workforce Innovation Board

Contact Us

We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re looking for services, seeking a partnership, or have questions, our team is ready to assist you. Reach out today and let’s work together to build a stronger future for Eastern Kentucky.