Bally's Executive Head Significantly Shortlisted for Rhode Island Governor's Workforce Panel
In a shake-up for Rhode Island's employment scene, Governor Dan McKee made some bold moves by nominating three powerhouses to the state's Governor's Workforce Board: Xay Khamsyvoravong, Jessica Key, and Tracey Wiley.
This board plays a crucial role in shaping the state's workforce development efforts, as it helps plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs designed to boost the prospects of Rhode Island workers. "A strong, skilled workforce is the backbone of our businesses, economy, and the future of our state," said McKee, expressing his excitement about the new team.
Xay Khamsyvoravong, a seasoned Newport city councilor and former mayor, stepped up to the challenge. Khamsyvoravong has a knack for improving education systems, expanding infrastructure, and investing in middle-class and workforce housing. With a strong finance background, Khamsyvoravong has held top positions at Webster Bank, CBRE Investment Management, and currently stands as the Director of PFM Financial Advisors. "Career pathways to good-paying jobs are vital for our economy and future, and I'm ready to help Rhode Islanders reach new heights," said Khamsyvoravong.
Jessica Key, who currently manages and operates three workforce development centers for the Ocean State via the Rhode Island Higher Education & Industry Centers, is no stranger to workforce development. Key previously oversaw more than 40 adult training pipelines and K-12 and career and technical education programs in three states while working at General Dynamics Electric Boat. "Workforce development is essential for Rhode Island's growth, and I'm excited to work with the board to build a brighter future for the state's workforce," said Key.
Joining the duo is Tracey Wiley, who currently serves as the Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Bally's Corporation. Before taking on this role, Wiley completed two consecutive gubernatorial appointments as the Director of the Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Wiley is also the founder and CEO of Rainmaker Industries Group, LLC, an initiative designed to uplift communities of color and foster generational wealth among diverse populations. "I'm thrilled to join the Workforce Board and help create greater access to education and employment opportunities for all Rhode Islanders," said Wiley.
With these powerhouse nominees submitted to the Rhode Island Senate for advice and consent, the future of Rhode Island's workforce is looking brighter than ever. The unique skills and experiences these individuals bring to the table will undoubtedly help shape a more prosperous workforce ecosystem for the state.
- Xay Khamsyvoravong, having served as a Newport city councilor and former mayor, will bring his experience in improving education systems, expanding infrastructure, and investment in workforce housing to the Governor's Workforce Board.
- Khamsyvoravong, with a strong background in finance, having held top positions at Webster Bank, CBRE Investment Management, and PFM Financial Advisors, aims to create career pathways leading to good-paying jobs for Rhode Islanders.
- Jessica Key, managing workforce development centers in Rhode Island and previously overseeing training programs in multiple states, will contribute her expertise to the Governor's Workforce Board.
- In line with Rhode Island's efforts in diversity and inclusion, Tracey Wiley, the Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Bally's Corporation, has been nominated to the Governor's Workforce Board.
- Wiley, who has held gubernatorial appointments and founded Rainmaker Industries Group, LLC, an initiative focused on empowering communities of color and fostering generational wealth, will help create greater access to education and employment opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
- The nomination of these powerhouses to the Governor's Workforce Board indicates a strong commitment to business, education, and career development, as well as policy and legislation focused on diversity, inclusion, and the overall success of Rhode Island's workforce.
