Nationwide search attracted top-tier candidates
Brooks Young has been named Executive Director of TNWorks, Tennessee’s single source for workforce solutions, overseeing the leadership of the core agencies that guide the initiative.
The nationwide search attracted top-tier candidates, and Young was selected for his “proven leadership, deep expertise, and forward-looking vision,” which will help build on TNWorks’ early momentum and guide its continued growth, according to a state release.
“We are confident Brooks will continue driving TNWorks forward,” said Deniece Thomas, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD). “His leadership ensures that Tennessee is ready to meet the demands of businesses that rely on our growing workforce.”
Young has served as interim TNWorks director since the initiative launched in fall 2025 and previously held the role of Assistant Administrator for TDLWD’s Office of Strategic Initiatives.
Before joining the Department, he worked with the Tennessee Board of Regents.
“TNWorks plays a critical role in keeping Tennessee the top choice for businesses by showcasing the state’s highly skilled, ready and able workforce,” said Deputy Gov. and TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter. “Brooks’ leadership will strengthen our talent pipeline and ensure companies know Tennessee has the workforce to meet the demands of any industry—helping attract new investment and sustain long-term economic growth.”
“TNWorks represents a bold, new approach to workforce and economic development in Tennessee,” Young said. “I’m excited to help realize its full potential and bring this vision to fruition for the benefit of Tennesseans and our business community.”
TNWorks is led by six core agencies:
- Labor and Workforce Development
- Economic and Community Development
- Human Services
- Education
- Tennessee Board of Regents
- Tennessee Higher Education Commission
A key initiative of the Tennessee government, TNWorks creates a unified approach to economic and workforce development. The program helps Tennessee companies expand or relocate by streamlining workforce solutions, providing customized training programs, and offering a single-touch system for services.
TNWorks aims to strengthen Tennessee’s reputation as a business-friendly state by serving as a streamlined, single resource for companies looking to grow or relocate.
Learn more at TNWorks.com.
Image by partystock on Freepik.
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