Beunkka Davis, Communications Specialist
JACKSON, Miss. (Oct. 16, 2025) — AccelerateMS, Mississippi’s leading office for workforce development strategy and coordination, has welcomed two experienced professionals to its team: Carlton “Ray” Hollis, MBA, in north Mississippi, and Dr. Daniel Dean “Deano” Harrison in south Mississippi. Both will serve as workforce project managers with regional focuses aimed at advancing workforce initiatives across the state.
Both Hollis and Harrison will serve as central points of contact for statewide project communications, develop and execute detailed project plans, and facilitate collaboration among stakeholders. Their work will focus on enhancing career pathways and expanding workforce opportunities throughout Mississippi.
Hollis brings extensive experience in workforce outreach, technical instruction, and manufacturing operations. Most recently, he served as workforce business outreach and training manager at East Mississippi Community College, where he also taught engineering technology, drafting and design. His work included developing curriculum, coordinating CAD projects and teaching both classroom and lab courses. Earlier in his career, Hollis spent 17 years as a CNC operator at Baldor Electric Co. He is a certified Autodesk and Inventor user and holds a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in project management from Louisiana State University Shreveport, as well as a bachelor’s degree in applied science in human resource management.
Harrison brings more than 20 years of experience in program management, recruitment and staffing. He previously served as workforce project director at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and workforce development manager at Singing River Health System, where he launched Mississippi’s first healthcare registered apprenticeship programs in surgical technology, phlebotomy and certified nursing assistance. Earlier in his career, he served as an operations officer in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. Harrison earned a doctorate in human capital development from the University of Southern Mississippi and a master’s degree in human resource management from Troy University.
About AccelerateMS
AccelerateMS serves the people and businesses of Mississippi by developing and implementing workforce strategies that connect individuals with transformative, high-paying careers. By leveraging resources and partnering with organizations that share complementary missions, AccelerateMS drives positive change and fosters long-term individual, community and statewide economic prosperity.