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Meet the Team

Transforming Mississippi’s workforce is a team effort.

The AccelerateMS Ecosystem approach is designed to develop and improve strategies that meet the unique needs of specific regions within the state. We seek to maximize proven practices delivered at local “micro” levels, while addressing “macro” concerns in an effort to meet the current and emergent needs of Mississippi’s workforce.

Each ecosystem has a dedicated AccelerateMS team member, who serves as the central point of contact within their sphere of influence. Each ecosystem routinely reviews labor market data, supply chain needs, available educational and training resources, and regional/community assets in an effort to more accurately meet needs in real time. Regular meetings with ecosystem stakeholders encourage collaboration and promote the development of workforce strategies focused on the needs of each specific ecosystem.

 

A message from our Executive Director:

Dr. Courtney Taylor

Executive Director

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Welcome to the home of Accelerate Mississippi.

As the Executive Director of Mississippi’s Office of Workforce Development, I am dedicated to leading our workforce system with a dynamic and proactive approach that aims to transform the lives of our citizens. Our mission is to engineer and continuously improve a state-wide, fully integrated talent development system where Mississippians excel in our dynamic, globally connected economy through effective awareness-building, education, training, and job placement services valued by employers.

Our vision goes beyond individual transformation and embraces the broader reality of Mississippi possessing a world-class workforce aligned to its unique economic portfolio and labor market, driving increased and sustained individual, community, and statewide prosperity. We are committed to creating an environment where economic development and workforce readiness are synonymous. Through strategic partnerships, cutting-edge programs, and unwavering dedication, we aim to drive progress and ensure that Mississippi stands as a beacon of growth and opportunity. Together, we can create a brighter future for our state, our people, and our economy.

Our Team

Dr. Ben Alexander

Research Analyst

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Yolonda Boone

Senior Advisor

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Forrest Bryan

Workforce Project Manager

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Krystle Culver

Program Manager

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Beunkka Davis

Communications Specialist

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Dr. Angenette Dixon

Program Manager

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Kimberley Gatewood

Workforce Project Manager

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Erin Gordon

Industry Engagements Manager

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Ed Hargrove

Program Manager

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Deano Harrison

Workforce Project Manager

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Daniel Hawthorne

Director of Communications

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Ray Hollis

Workforce Project Manager

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Shelika Hooker

Director of Grants Management

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Meghan Kaminsky-Rogers

Talent Acquisition Manager

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Blaise King

Director of Workforce Innovation

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Jennifer Levingston

Workforce Project Manager

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Ty McCearley

Sr. Manager Learning & Development Strategy

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Melissa McCoy

Instructional Designer

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Mary Ann Myers

Chief Operations Officer

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LeAnne Nixon

Adult Programs Manager

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Christina Shores

Executive Assistant

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Trey Smith

Director of Talent Solutions

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Dr. Cliff Thames

Director of Data and Insights

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Kari Thomas

Workforce Project Manager

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Jeremiah Willis

Special Populations Strategy Manager

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Tracy Yanez

Workforce Project Manager

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