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Eastern Kentucky’s workforce is evolving — and the SOAR Summit Workforce Track explores how we equip people not just for jobs, but for purpose-filled lives. From social enterprise to reentry to modern apprenticeships, these sessions spotlight the systems, partnerships, and innovations powering inclusive employment and economic mobility in Appalachia.
Ideal Audience
- Employers and HR professionals
- Workforce board staff and WIOA providers
- Educators, CTE leaders, and community colleges
- Reentry and recovery coordinators
- Funders, civic leaders, and policy professionals
- Entrepreneurs and social enterprise supporters
Tuesday, August 26
From Insight to Action: Using Workforce Data to Power Rural Talent Strategy
10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. | Corbin Center
Workforce data is only powerful when it drives action. This session introduces Futuriti, a Kentucky-built platform helping job seekers, students, and those in recovery or reentry explore careers, connect to live job openings, and access training aligned to local demand.Panelists will show how data tools are empowering individuals and communities to make smarter decisions and better align education, workforce, and economic development efforts.
Meet the Speakers
Jessica Fletcher, MPA
Program Director, Partnerships & Outreach, Kentucky Council On Postsecondary Education
Having grown up in Rockcastle County, I’ve always had a passion for helping Appalachians thrive. By bringing Futuriti to the SOAR summit, I hope that we can help more Eastern Kentuckians access this new way to find their futures.”
Work, Wealth, and the Common Good: Social Enterprises in Rural America
10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. | Corbin Center
In rural America, social enterprises are proving that good business can do more than turn a profit — it can restore purpose, ownership, and wealth in communities too often left behind. This session will explore innovative models from across Appalachia that are creating jobs, building equity, and reinvesting in place. Discover how worker-owned businesses, ESOPs, and cooperatives are reshaping the rural economy from the ground up.
Meet the Speakers
Danna Barnett
Program Manager, SOAR EKY Runway Program (Moderator)
Josiah Isaiah Hannah
Workforce Development Director, Coalfield Development Corporation
Modern Apprenticeships for a Modern Appalachia: Unlocking Earn-and-Learn Pathways in EKY
11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. | Corbin Center
Appalachia is ready for a new era of apprenticeship. This session dives into scalable, flexible earn-and-learn models that go beyond the trades — including tech, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. You’ll hear how these pathways are meeting employer needs, supporting learners of all ages, and fueling homegrown talent across the region.
The Community of Connection: Whole-Person Support for Eastern Kentucky’s Workforce
1:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. | Corbin Center
Employment doesn’t happen in a vacuum. From health and housing to transportation and education, this session explores how holistic, cross-sector partnerships are removing barriers and reimagining workforce development in Eastern Kentucky. Learn how a new model of care and coordination is restoring purpose and potential, one person at a time.
Meet the Speakers
Jana Stoner
Senior Program Officer of Mission and Strategy, The Pallottine Foundation of Huntington
Wednesday, August 27
From Surviving to Thriving: Stories of Change from the EKY Runway
10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. | Corbin Center
This powerful session features the voices of Eastern Kentuckians walking the path from adversity to opportunity. Through mentorship, individualized support, and real work, the EKY Runway is helping people reclaim their future. You’ll hear first-hand how trust, persistence, and purpose are driving lasting transformation in the workforce.y from the ground up.
Meet the Speakers
Barbara Gay
Program Manager, SOAR EKY Runway Program (Moderator)
Beyond the Box: Reframing Reentry as Workforce, Community, and Economic Development
11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. | Corbin Center
Reentry isn’t just a justice issue — it’s an economic one. This session calls on communities to think bigger and act bolder, reframing reentry as a strategy for inclusive workforce and community development. From statewide infrastructure to local innovation, you’ll explore what it takes to become truly reentry-ready.
Meet the Speaker
Aaron Poynter
Director, Reentry and Employment Services Branch, Office of Adult Education
“I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to join everyone at the SOAR Summit, a place where my passion for Eastern Kentucky and its people come full circle. I’m honored to be a part of the conversation about building brighter futures through opportunity, second chances and community.”
Take a look at the 2025 SOAR Summit Schedule
Please Note: This schedule is subject to change. Updates will be made regularly leading up to the event to reflect the most current information.
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