Bridget Back

Executive Director

Deputy Director, Bridget Back, has been named the 2025 Workforce Professional of the Year by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). This prestigious award recognizes Bridget’s outstanding leadership and significant impact in advancing workforce development.

With over 15 years of experience, Bridget has been instrumental in securing and managing grants, and developing and implementing effective workforce development programs at EKCEP, servicing both employers and job seekers in our region. Her dedication ensures that EKCEP’s programs exceed state and federal regulations, and drive our mission to enhance employment opportunities and economic growth in Eastern Kentucky.

Bridget holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Strayer University and an MBA from Union College. She has also been appointed to the Community Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, whose advisory councils play a vital role in gathering information on regional economic and business conditions. These councils, comprised of diverse business, civic, and community leaders, complement the Bank’s research, enabling a comprehensive
understanding of the economic landscape within the Fourth District, which includes Eastern Kentucky.

EKCEP values the opportunity to contribute to this important process through Bridget’s participation.