A native of Putnam County, Whiteaker joins HEP to help establish the new Highlands Training Center following his work with UCHRA in securing the TANF Opportunity Act grant for Empower Upper Cumberland. Tony has direct experience in developing employment training programs throughout his 15 years with TNDHS leading the Tennessee Rehabilitation Center. Additionally, Tony has a lifelong history of public service with 11 years of employment with Putnam county Sheriff's office. 

Tony has a longstanding history of  working with industry and employers and has guided clients into a career path by teaching them necessary job skills. His desire is to fill our community’s workforce needs, educate and train individuals of the region so they may be successful and happy in their career.

In his spare time Tony enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, golfing, or hunting and is an avid gym goer. He is married to Michelle and they have a daughter, Anna.