10/11/2026
🌟 BREAKING BARRIERS 2026 — THANK YOU TO OUR SPEAKERS! 🌟
Two days of learning, connections, and a shared commitment to the next generation of skilled professionals! Connect for Success NC’s Breaking Barriers Conference brought educators and industry partners together October 8–9 at Shell Island Resort in Wrightsville Beach.
Help us thank the speakers and panelists who made these conversations possible:
🎤 Karen Barefoot
“A Championship Blueprint for Success—Leaving Footprints.” A message about leadership, purpose, and the impact we can leave on others.
🎤 James Larkin | Whiting-Turner
The value of trade partners, collaboration, and developing our young workforce.
🎤 Hal Averette | Jones Insurance, and Shannon Council & Kisha Scotton | Department of Labor
“Youth in the Workplace: Myth Busters!” Bringing education and industry together to better understand youth employment, insurance considerations, and workplace requirements.
🎤 Julia Kunlo | Evolution Safety Resources
“The 10 Biggest Myths About Safety in the Trades.” Challenging misconceptions and keeping workplace safety at the center of the conversation.
🎤 Michele Wilson | Founder, Coffee & Cocktails with Contractors®
Building the next generation of the trades through early exposure, stronger education and industry connections, and opportunities for young talent.
🎤 Mike Rhodes | Premier Trade Staffing, LLC
“Yesterday’s Rules Don’t Build Today’s Teams.” Understanding Gen Z and preparing to welcome the next generation into the workplace.
🎤 Our School-to-Career Student Panel
A special thank-you to the young people who shared their experiences, career journeys, and perspectives. Their stories remind us why connecting classrooms with real opportunities matters. ❤️
🛠️ Thank you also to Mike Emig, Dale Jarman, and Marvin Weathers for leading our SHED and VOLT discussions as we look ahead to 2027!
To our educators, contractors, sponsors, and partners: thank you for showing up, sharing ideas, and investing your time in this work. Congratulations to our 2026 School Partner Award recipients!
And to Susan and Brittany—a heartfelt thank-you for the care and hard work you poured into bringing this conference together.
The conversations started here continue in our schools, on our jobsites, and through the partnerships we build together.
Until next year… KEEP BREAKING BARRIERS! 🛠️⚡
