Photo by Mindy Joy Photography, 2021
Lisa M. Bly-Jones, Ed.D., Board Executive Director of The Workforce Connection, was recently named one of the 2021 People You Should Know by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Lisa is humble and appreciative of her nominator and those that supported her nomination, as well as the Rockford Chamber’s selection committee for honoring her as a Person You Should Know. Lisa’s appreciation goes further – stating, “I really appreciate being recognized and that the work of our organization is being recognized. People You Should Know is not just about the person, but it also builds the profile of organizations like The Workforce Connection, acknowledging to the community and leaders what great work is being done“.
Highlighting individuals who are compelling, interesting, and “doers”, People You Should Know are people admired for their work, drive, dedication, and commitment to what they believe in. These are business individuals who work hard each and every day to make the Rockford community a better place to live, work, learn and play
Dr. Bly-Jones is an inspiration to her team whose background in leadership shines with her passion for mentorship. One staff said of Lisa, “she is an emphatic force to be reckoned with, with a heart that is built on the foundation of making people and lives better”. In the words of her nominator, Karen Brown – a PYSK honoree of 2014, “Dr. Lisa Bly-Jones is a connector, leader, and visionary in the world of workforce development. She brings a unique blend of business acumen, public employer, education and workforce system knowledge to the Rockford region. She is naturally curious and asks engaging questions to better understand people and processes. She balances her intense passion and desire to achieve with a sense of humor and warm laugh. Lisa is often called on to represent the Rockford region on workforce development at the state and national levels. She is known for her intelligence, forward thinking and credibility”.
With over 20 years of experience in training and development, Lisa serves in various roles representing the region and state for workforce development. She was selected to serve as the Midwest Regional Liaison for the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB), invited to serve on NAWB’s task force to improve racial equity in the workforce study and is the co-chair for the Illinois Workforce Board (IWIB) Equity Taskforce, the Vice President of the Chicago Jobs Council board, and is the incoming President of the Illinois Workforce Partnership after serving as Vice President.
