Edition: October 1, 2024

The Workforce Summit features workforce development and education updates for the Southwest Alabama Region. The workforce summit is a forum to bring together leaders from the public and private sectors to network and discuss key workforce topics that impact the region's continued growth.

Click Here to Register

Thank You to Our Sponsors!


SAWDC's Executive Director, Bridget Wilson, Joins Baldwin Preparatory Academy's Podcast!

In a recent episode of Baldwin Preparatory Academy's podcast, SAWDC's Executive Director, Bridget Wilson, dives into the innovative approach of Baldwin Prep Academy—the first standalone Career Technical High School in our region and the Southeast. The conversation explores how education and industry are integrated at Baldwin Prep, with industry partners involved in everything from curriculum planning to creating industry-specific training environments.

Join us as we discuss bridging the gap between business and education, along with some exciting upcoming events.



Listen to the full episode here

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ACCS AWARDS FY2025 GRANTS TO BOOST WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT


The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) has awarded over $2.1 million in grants to Region 7 community colleges for Fiscal Year 2025. These funds are dedicated to expanding access to training opportunities, increasing workforce participation, and eliminating barriers that hinder the region’s workforce development. The grants will directly support local institutions in preparing students and workers for high-demand careers, driving economic growth and workforce readiness across the region.


Grant Awards for Region 7 Community Colleges:

  • Bishop State Community College: Awarded $289,055 to support programs ranging from Career Readiness to Aviation Manufacturing Technology. These initiatives are designed to equip students with critical skills that meet the needs of local employers and industries.
  • Coastal Alabama Community College: Received $670,584 to expand Healthcare & Disaster Training programs and launch FAME Built by Baldwin. This funding will enhance training pathways for students, ensuring they are well-prepared for careers in healthcare and manufacturing.
  • Reid State Technical College: Awarded $1,166,906 to focus on programs centered around CDL Training, Skid Steer Operator Training, Diesel Engine Performance Training, and more. These funds will help bridge the skills gap by offering cutting-edge training in fields vital to the region’s economic development.

These grants are a pivotal part of the ACCS’s ongoing efforts to create a stronger, more skilled workforce in Alabama. By investing in high-quality education and training programs, the system is ensuring that individuals across Region 7 have access to the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market.

Register Here!
  • October 3rd: Gulf Coast Challenge College & Career Fair 8:30 am
  • October 7th: Dale Carnegie Workshop 9:00 am
  • October 16th: Workforce Summit 9:00 am
  • October 23rd-24th: Leadership Skills Training 1


CONTACT US


Bridget Wilson, Executive Director | bwilson@sawdc.org


Hayleigh Barlar, Workforce Development Manager | hbarlar@sawdc.org


Bridgette Young, Education and Programs Manager | byoung@sawdc.org