By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
The Bossier Chamber of Commerce concluded its 2025 Public Policy Series on Monday, October 27, with a discussion focused on Louisiana’s workforce and economic development. The event, presented by Willis Knighton Health, featured two key state leaders: Susie Schowen, Secretary of Louisiana Works, and Tedra Cheatham, Executive Director of LED FastStart.
Held as the final installment in the Chamber’s monthlong Public Policy Series, the program drew local business leaders, educators, and policymakers eager to learn more about the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the workforce pipeline and attract new investment to Louisiana.
Schowen, who heads Louisiana Works—formerly the Louisiana Workforce Commission—shared insights on the state’s approach to aligning education and employment initiatives with industry needs. With more than a decade of experience at LED FastStart before her current appointment, Schowen emphasized collaboration among industry partners, educators, and economic developers to create opportunities for Louisiana residents. Her work has centered on increasing workforce readiness and expanding access to high-quality jobs that support community prosperity.
Cheatham, who now leads LED FastStart, discussed how the state’s workforce development program is partnering with employers to ensure that Louisiana remains competitive in attracting and retaining businesses. Through custom workforce solutions—such as recruiting, training, and curriculum development—LED FastStart provides tailored support to new and expanding companies across the state. Cheatham also highlighted the importance of partnerships between education systems and employers in developing a talent pipeline that meets Louisiana’s evolving economic needs.
The discussion underscored the growing collaboration between Louisiana Works and LED FastStart, two agencies that play crucial roles in shaping the state’s economic future. Attendees gained perspective on how these agencies are addressing labor shortages, supporting technical education, and preparing Louisiana’s workforce for emerging industries.
This Public Policy Series event marked the conclusion of a successful season of informative programs hosted by the Bossier Chamber. The series, launched earlier in the fall, featured high-profile speakers from both state and federal levels—including U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate President Cameron Henry, and Louisiana Secretary of Revenue Richard Nelson—each offering insight into policies that affect businesses and communities in Northwest Louisiana.
The Bossier Chamber’s Public Policy Series is designed to connect members with leaders who influence the region’s economic and legislative landscape. By facilitating direct dialogue between policymakers and the business community, the Chamber continues to serve as a vital link between local stakeholders and decision-makers in Baton Rouge and Washington, D.C.
The series was made possible thanks to presenting sponsor Willis Knighton Health and supporting sponsors Barksdale Federal Credit Union, Expand Energy, Ochsner LSU Health, and Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Homes.