Tennessee’s Department of Health has modernized its recruitment processes with vital support from PHIG funding, resulting in a 136% increase in qualified applicants and allowing for faster filling of positions, especially in rural areas. This funding has enabled the hiring of external recruiters, expanding the candidate pool to include recent public health graduates and enhancing the state’s competitiveness with private sector hiring practices. Additionally, PHIG funding has facilitated partnerships with every public health school in Tennessee, increasing internship and experiential learning opportunities as well as connecting academic training directly to public health practice. Through this initiative, the department can ensure timely healthcare services for underserved communities.