Triangle East Chamber Names First Talent and Leadership Development Manager

Smithfield, NC – The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce has taken a major step forward in its five-year Triangle East Prospers initiative, appointing BriAnna Walker as the region’s first-ever Talent and Leadership Development Manager.

The new role marks a significant investment in tackling one of Johnston County’s most pressing challenges: building a skilled workforce. Currently, 63 percent of area employers report difficulty finding workers with essential skills.

Walker will lead the charge in developing, retaining, and attracting talent to the region. Her work will begin with strengthening the talent pipeline for the manufacturing and construction sectors, managing the JOCO WORKS suite of programs, expanding work-based learning opportunities for students, and supporting businesses as they recruit employees to Johnston County.

Walker brings extensive experience in workforce readiness, recruiting, and partnerships. Prior to joining the Chamber, she led the internship program and student engagement initiatives at RTI International, where she enhanced hiring and onboarding practices, curated professional development workshops, and oversaw high-profile events such as the Summer Kickoff and Internship Showcase. Her career also includes roles in business development, marketing, and project management. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Winston-Salem State University and a Master of Arts in Communication from Queens University of Charlotte.

Launched by the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce, Triangle East Prospers is a five-year regional economic and community development initiative aimed at accelerating economic prosperity and enhancing quality of life across Johnston County. To date, more than $900,000 has been raised to fund the plan’s key priorities, including workforce development, business growth, and community advancement. Additional information about the initiative can be found here