Lori Burdine

ERMCO is the leading manufacturer of distribution transformers in North America.

• Partnered with TCAT Northwest on a DOL-sponsored grant to launch the ERMCO Welding Academy micro-credential, certifying 16 candidates in the first year.
• Led workforce communications and engagement events increasing employee participation by 50% in year one.
• Implemented internal learning initiatives and corporate training programs to improve workforce development and upskill employees.
• Worked with personas as part of learning and organizational change management initiatives, aligning workforce strategies with real employee needs and industry expectations.

Tennessee Pathways created alignment between K-12 and postsecondary education and employers so that students have clear pathways to high-quality employment.

• Developed strategic partnerships to scale regional workforce initiatives, increasing employer engagement by 50%.
• Led statewide efforts to enhance apprenticeship and work-based learning models, ensuring equity in student access to career pathways.
• Collaborated with school systems on grant applications, earning over $2 million in Innovative High School funding.
• Arranged regional conferences, advocating for workforce-aligned education policy and apprenticeship expansion.

The Northwest TN Workforce Board acts as a strategic leader and convener of local workforce development stakeholders, ensuring compliance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act.

• Secured over $2M in non-federal workforce development grants, expanding training programs, employer engagement, and economic mobility initiatives.
• Led strategic planning efforts, aligning LWDB partnerships, economic development strategies, and education pathways per federal regulations.
• Promoted regional work-based learning, apprenticeship, and career pathway initiatives that improved access to in-demand occupations for underserved communities.
• Implemented community town halls to discuss labor market trends, bringing together employers, educators, and workforce leaders to align on economic and employment needs
• Northwest TN