DEW names new assistant executive director of workforce development

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Nina Staggers is the new assistant executive director of workforce development for the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce.

In her new position, Staggers will be responsible for the direction and administrative oversight of federal workforce programs, according to a news release from DEW. She will also develop funded initiatives to address barriers keeping people from obtaining employment in high-growth, high-demand occupations.

“I’m excited to transition into this new role at the agency,” Staggers said. “From the workforce development team to support staff, everyone at our agency is passionate about assisting South Carolinians in finding work, gaining financial independence, strengthening local businesses and improving communities through our workforce efforts.”

She previously served as the deputy assistant executive director of workforce development at the agency since Feb. 2021 and has worked at DEW for more than seven years. During her tenure at DEW, she has served as a project coordinator, director of grants management and director of special initiatives within the workforce development division.

Staggers holds a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and a doctorate from Widener University.

“Nina is a great example of an employee that works their way up through an agency by demonstrating exceptional talent, leadership qualities and a strong commitment to the job,” said Dan Ellzey, DEW’s executive director. “Her strong record of developing workforce partnerships and monitoring both large and small-scale projects speaks to her professionalism.”