Community College Month: Fueling Alabama’s Economic Engine Through Workforce Development
By Michael Barnette, Dean of Workforce and Economic Development Programs, Central Alabama Community College
As we celebrate Community College Month, it’s important to highlight the critical role that workforce development programs at Central Alabama Community College (CACC) play in driving regional economic growth and improving community prosperity across Central Alabama.
Today’s workforce landscape is evolving at unprecedented speed, with industries consistently seeking qualified employees with up-to-date skills and industry-recognized credentials. At CACC, we recognize this dynamic challenge as an opportunity. Our Workforce and Economic Development Programs actively partner with local industries and employers, crafting innovative solutions to address their unique workforce needs, boost productivity, and foster sustainable economic growth.
A prime example of this success is our Skills for Success initiative. This targeted training program provides industry-specific skills that lead directly to employment or enhanced professional opportunities. Our recent partnerships—such as the CDL training initiative with Southern States Utilities—illustrate precisely how CACC aligns educational programming with real-world employment demands. We effectively close skills gaps, bolster local industry, and strengthen our regional economy by training current employees or preparing new ones with the credentials employers need most.
Beyond individual training programs, our mission at CACC encompasses continuous dialogue and collaboration with employers and economic development agencies throughout Alabama. From manufacturing and healthcare to cybersecurity and skilled trades, our goal is always to ensure our graduates possess competencies that directly translate to high-demand, high-wage careers.
The Alabama Community College System’s investments have significantly empowered our work, particularly by providing resources that enable CACC to offer accessible, affordable workforce training tailored precisely to industry standards. As a result, we witness firsthand the transformative power of skill-building programs on individual lives and our broader community’s economic resilience.
Looking ahead, CACC remains dedicated to anticipating and responding proactively to future workforce trends and challenges. By continuously expanding industry partnerships and updating
Media Contact:
Scott Hardy
Director of Institutional Advancement, Government Affairs, and Public Relations
Central Alabama Community College
256-496-2450