The Educator Workforce Academy (EWA) is focused on informing educators about career opportunities and workforce training programs in Southwest Alabama. It helps ensure that students know the various pathways and are better prepared for their future careers. The opening session was held on October 17, 2023, at the Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Center at Bishop State Community College. The session was informative and beneficial. The lineup of presenters included Bradley Byrne, Bridget Wilson, Akareem Spears, Laura Bethea, Jennifer Hall, and Hallory Tucker. The speakers each covered various aspects of workforce development and education.

The monthly sessions planned for November, January, February, and March provide an excellent structure for ongoing learning and collaboration. EWA is committed to equipping educators with the knowledge and resources to support students.

Aviation Hiring Event

SAWDC AlabamaWorks and Coastal Alabama Community College partnered on Friday, October 27, 2023, to host the Southwest Alabama Aviation Hiring Event in Mobile County.

Nearly 80 candidates turned out for the hiring event. The event was open to all individuals looking for a career path leading to a rewarding job and provided a chance for them to obtain information on the aviation educational opportunities available at Coastal Alabama Community College and Bishop State Community College.

We would like to thank the following industry partners that contributed to the success of this event: AE&C Services, Aerostar, Airbus, Collins Aerospace, Continental Aerospace Technologies, Jet Services, MAAS Aviation, Mobile Airport Authority, PCI Manufacturing, Segers Aero, Sonic Tools USA, ST Engineering, and Vartan.Aero.

FAME ON THE COAST

FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing

Education) offers an exceptional work-based learning program, geared towards preparing students for promising careers in the manufacturing sector. At FAME on the Coast, the primary goal is to equip students with the essential skills and practical experience necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving manufacturing industry.

The comprehensive program combines classroom instruction, hands-on training, and real-world application, fostering a deep understanding of process technology and industrial maintenance. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical exposure, we empower our students to confidently confront the complexities of the manufacturing landscape. A key distinguishing feature of FAME on the Coast is the unwavering commitment to work-based learning. They firmly believe that practical experience is crucial in nurturing the competencies essential for success in the manufacturing sector. Through strategic partnerships with local industries, students gain first-hand exposure to industry professionals, enabling them to refine their skills within a genuine work environment. Many thanks to the current FAME industry partners: Alabama Power, AM/NS Calvert, BASF, Coastal Growers, FMC, Lenzing Fibers, Outokumpu, Novelis, and Vulcan.

Bishop State’s FAME on the Coast is dedicated to bridging the gap between the local manufacturing sector and the future workforce by cultivating a pipeline of highly skilled and proficient professionals. Together, we are shaping the future of manufacturing through education, practical training, and industry collaboration.

For more information on FAME or to become a student sponsor contact AJ Greggs at agregg@bishop.edu.

Bishop State Community College's HAAS Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technology holds its Grand Opening

Bishop State Community College's Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technology held its grand opening on October 24. The 80,000-square-foot facility provides an integrated training curriculum and a simulated workplace center aimed at serving the training needs of regional industry partners.

The comprehensive approach, incorporating a simulated workplace and training curriculum, well-positions Bishop State Community College to meet the needs of the local industry. The emphasis on innovation and practical training technologies reflects a commitment to preparing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the evolving manufacturing landscape.

Investments in facilities like this are crucial for building a strong foundation for the workforce and can contribute significantly to regional economic growth. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, the center will foster a learning environment that aligns closely with industry requirements. This will provide students and aspiring professionals with the practical skills and experiences necessary to succeed in the manufacturing sector.

Such initiatives are essential in addressing the skills gap and promoting a more robust and competitive workforce, ultimately benefiting both the local community and the broader region.

Baldwin County SHRM

We had the privilege of sharing the diverse array of workforce development support services offered through SAWDC at the recent Baldwin County SHRM meeting. Attendees were enlightened about the comprehensive programs and resources from tailored training initiatives to targeted employment assistance. The presentation highlighted the vital role SAWDC plays in fostering a skilled and competitive workforce.