In episode nine of Small Business Stories, hosted by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce and Louisiana Catalyst, local changemaker Matt Dickerson joined the conversation to discuss one of Northeast Louisiana’s most urgent challenges — and opportunities: workforce development.
As a strategic leader at Pulp Mill Services, founder of C3 Consulting, and a key partner with the Northeast Louisiana Manufacturing Alliance and Consortium (NELA MAC), Dickerson is building bridges between schools, businesses, and public institutions to prepare the next generation of Monroe’s workforce.
From Educator to Workforce Advocate
A graduate of Neville High School, Dickerson’s career began in education after a collegiate football career at the University of Central Arkansas. He returned home to Monroe to coach and teach for nearly a decade before launching a metal fabrication business. His entrepreneurial journey led to the launch of Legacy Metal Works and later to a strategic role at Pulp Mill Services.
But his current focus is far bigger than any one company.
“We have a lot of people doing good work in silos,” Dickerson explained. “Now is the time to break down those silos and build a truly collaborative community.”
Collaboration Over Competition
Through Pulp Mill Services and in partnership with the Chamber, Dickerson is leading efforts to align business leaders, educators, and workforce agencies across Ouachita Parish. From K-12 schools and technical colleges to private industry and civic leaders, he’s helping coordinate resources for maximum impact.
“When we get the minds in one room — the workforce boards, schools, chambers, and businesses — the possibilities are limitless,” he said.
One of the biggest barriers he aims to overcome is outdated perceptions of career pathways. “We’ve got to stop viewing technical careers as second-tier. Every student is on a career path — whether that takes six weeks or six years.”
Ready for Launch: A New Kind of Senior Send-Off
One of Dickerson’s most innovative projects is the Ready for Launch program, piloted this year at Neville High School. Developed alongside Principal Mickey McCarty, the event matched graduating seniors with immediate job and training opportunities from dozens of local employers. The evening also offered parents and families a first-hand look at what local careers really look like.
“Students and parents alike left encouraged,” said Dickerson. “Businesses were offering training and starting wages of $15 an hour or more — with zero experience required.”
NELA MAC: Manufacturing with a Mission
Dickerson also plays a central role in NELA MAC. This group of over 40 regional manufacturers has come together to promote their industries, support K-12 career exploration, and improve workforce pipelines.
Through public-private partnerships, NELA MAC has already secured funding from the Ouachita Parish Police Jury and is working on initiatives with the new Children’s Museum and local schools. Their aim is to promote Monroe’s blue-collar legacy while embracing the advanced manufacturing jobs of today.
“People don’t even realize the number of companies producing high-level work right here,” Dickerson noted. “We want to change that — starting in the classroom.”
A Vision Rooted in Faith and Community
At the heart of it all is Dickerson’s commitment to service and spiritual purpose. Citing Jeremiah 29:11, he speaks of a hopeful future — not just for his daughter, but for all the young people of Ouachita Parish.
“There is more opportunity in this community than we’ve ever had before,” Dickerson said. “We just need to meet people where they are, give them the tools to succeed, and help them believe they have a place here.”
With programs like Ready for Launch, partnerships through NELA MAC, and a relentless drive to unify sectors, Matt Dickerson is helping Monroe write a new story of career success, economic growth, and shared opportunity.