Meet Wes Leatherman, Senior Business Development Specialist

What Is Your Role at FCWS?

I work with Frederick County employers to build strong relationships and better understand their workforce needs. Oftentimes, employers require customized solutions to attract, train, and retain talent. Another key part of my role is identifying industry trends and addressing workforce challenges to help meet the demands of local businesses and industries. Finally, and perhaps my favorite part, I enjoy connecting employers and individuals with partnerships, resources, or opportunities that create a positive impact.

What Do You Enjoy Most About Your Work?

I enjoy meeting new people and interacting with individuals throughout our community. You never know when a simple conversation can change someone's life for the better.

What Does “Workforce Development” Mean to You Personally?

Workforce development is like having a large box of mismatched Legos with no instructions. The pieces represent the diverse skills, experiences, and goals of individuals in the community, as well as the needs of local employers. We know that whatever we build must start with a strong foundation. From there, the structure must take shape in a way that reflects the community’s needs, balancing both employer demand and job seeker aspirations. Multiple perspectives and ideas, whether from businesses, educators, or workforce professionals, guide the planning process. Just like with Legos, creativity and innovation are what make the pieces fit together, turning a box of scattered parts into a system that is strong, functional, and built to last.

Share One Accomplishment, Project, or Moment That Makes You Proud of the Work You Do.

A few years ago, I worked with a job seeker who had stepped away from the workforce for seven years to focus on being a mother and caretaker. She was eager to return to work but struggled to leverage her prior experience in finance. In addition, her education and experience was from another country. Because of a strong relationship I had with a local banking employer, I reached out to see if they would be willing to conduct a mock interview and provide feedback. The employer gladly agreed, and the interview went so well that they ended up creating a position just to hire her. Two years later, she is now the Branch Manager at the very bank where she restarted her career. These are the life-changing outcomes my colleagues and I strive to deliver every day. It’s easy to feel passionate about this work when you see the profound difference it can make in someone’s life.

What Is One Thing People Might Be Surprised to Learn About Your Role?

I am part of a four-person business team dedicated to supporting employers across Frederick County. This role requires a true “pound the pavement” approach, building strong connections with employers and partners to establish meaningful, engaging relationships. The work is complex and ever-evolving, as we strive to create innovative solutions that address talent skill gaps, tap into underutilized populations, and strengthen workforce pipelines for our high-growth, high-demand industries.

What Is Your Top Career or Workforce Tip?

Get good at connecting with people. Hear their needs, recognize their strengths, and ask how you can support them. Meaningful and genuine conversations build relationships that are key to moving the needle in a positive direction.