Logistics, Innovation, and Workforce Development

Episode Summary:In this episode of The Building Texas Show, Justin McKenzie sits down with LaKesha Raynor, the Director of the Ascend Institute at Dallas College. LaKesha shares her work in workforce development, apprenticeships, and building key partnerships with both local and international organizations. She discusses how Dallas College is preparing the next generation of workers to meet the demands of evolving industries like logistics, autonomy, and technology. LaKesha highlights the importance of education, creativity, and collaboration in shaping Texas’ future workforce. Through her work with the Texoma Logistics Innovation Engine and partnerships with global entities, LaKesha emphasizes the interconnectedness of sectors such as logistics, AI, and the creative arts in the modern economy.Show Notes:Guest: LaKesha Raynor, Director of the Ascend Institute at Dallas CollegeLocation: YTexas Event at Dallas College, Garland, TexasEpisode Topics:LaKesha’s role at the Ascend Institute and the key focus on workforce development and apprenticeships.How Dallas College collaborates with external partners to offer specialized training to employees and employers.The significance of logistics, freight mobility, and cybersecurity in the modern economy.LaKesha’s international presence, including her work in Barcelona and Monterrey, Mexico, and the global reach of Dallas College.The role of YTexas in fostering collaboration and creating innovative ecosystems in Texas.The future of workforce development: Preparing the next generation for jobs in emerging sectors such as autonomous vehicles and AI.Breaking the myth of job loss with autonomy: Creating new job opportunities through technological advances.How creative industries like film production intersect with logistics, technology, and workforce development.Links & Resources:Learn more about the Ascend Institute at Dallas College: Dallas College Ascend InstituteDiscover more about YTexas: ytexas.comWatch other episodes of The Building Texas Show: buildingtexasshow.comEpisode Chapters:Introduction [00:00] Justin McKenzie introduces the special episode with LaKesha Raynor at the YTexas event in Garland, Texas.LaKesha’s Role at Dallas College [01:00] LaKesha explains her role at the Ascend Institute, focusing on workforce development, apprenticeships, and relationship management.International Reach of Dallas College [02:15] LaKesha talks about her international work, including speaking engagements in Barcelona and Monterrey, Mexico, and Dallas College's global partnerships.The Texoma Logistics Innovation Engine [04:00] LaKesha discusses the logistics innovation project funded by the National Science Foundation and its focus on autonomy, logistics, and cybersecurity.The Importance of YTexas in Building Connections [06:00] LaKesha shares how YTexas has helped her build valuable connections and expand Dallas College’s influence through new partnerships.Preparing the Future Workforce [08:00] LaKesha discusses how Dallas College is preparing students for the future workforce, focusing on next-gen sectors like autonomous vehicles and AI.Myth Busting: Autonomy Creates Jobs [10:00] LaKesha challenges the notion that automation and autonomous vehicles will eliminate jobs, explaining how these technologies create new opportunities.Creative Arts Meets Logistics & Technology [12:00] Exploring the intersection of the creative arts, logistics, and technology, LaKesha shares insights from her visit to the Austin Film Society and how industries overlap.Conclusion & Final Thoughts [13:00] Justin and LaKesha wrap up their conversation, emphasizing the need for education, collaboration, and innovation in building Texas’ workforce.