Season 2, Episode 2: Talent Wars with Kim Wallace & Kevin Carmichael

Dive into the heart of the “talent wars” shaping Metro Atlanta’s business landscape. Host Nick welcomes two dynamic leaders: Kim Wallace, Head of Community and Client Partnerships at Skilled, and Kevin Carmichael, Senior Vice President of Economic Development at Partnership Gwinnett.

Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in workforce development, the importance of public-private partnerships, and the evolving expectations of today’s employees. From the power of local education systems to the critical role of company culture and retention, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for business leaders, HR professionals, and anyone invested in the future of work in Gwinnett County. Whether you’re seeking to attract top talent, improve retention, or understand the region’s unique advantages, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration.

In this Episode:

  • The Talent Wars: Engagement & Retention Challenges (0:00)
  • Meet the Guests: Kim Wallace & Kevin Carmichael (0:13)
  • The Power of Public-Private Partnerships in Workforce Development (2:29)
  • Education Pipelines: From K-12 to Higher Ed in Gwinnett (2:49)
  • Metro Atlanta’s Unique Talent Pool & Growth (5:00)
  • Why Companies Choose Gwinnett: Location, Diversity, and Opportunity (6:33)
  • The Role of Company Culture in Attracting and Retaining Talent (12:23)
  • Building Reputation & Word-of-Mouth in Staffing (14:24)
  • Scalability and Career Pathways in Modern Workplaces (15:24)
  • Essential Skills: The New Focus for Employers & Educators (20:38)
  • Surprising Data on Employee Engagement & Retention (23:07)
  • Resources for Employers: Forums, Summits, and Community Engagement (28:17)
  • How to Connect with Skilled & Partnership Gwinnett (27:14, 28:17)

Resources & Links

Kim Wallace – SKL’D

Kevin Carmichael – Partnership Gwinnett

The “Gwinnett Chamber Voice of Business” Podcast is produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, business growth, and economic development. A special thanks also goes to our mug & mic flag sponsor, Capital Restorations!


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