ACCS Workforce Development Initiatives

At Reid State Community College, family pride runs deep, especially for Derrick and Kendria Boykin, a brother-and-sister duo who recently completed Reid State Community College’s CDL program together.

Despite being seven years apart in age, the siblings shared the same determination to earn their commercial driver’s licenses—and crossed the finish line side by side.

Following graduation, both Derrick and Kendria secured driving positions and are beginning their careers with the same company, continuing their journey together on the road ahead.

Their story reflects the power of dedication, family support, and workforce training opportunities that create meaningful career pathways for Alabama students and families.

Through continued investment in career and technical education, including the CDL Trailer Expansion initiative, students are gaining access to high-demand training that leads directly to employment and long-term success.

Governor Kay Ivey recently signed a proclamation recognizing Maritime Month, and multiple representatives from Alabama's community colleges were present, including from the ACCS, Bishop State Community College, LBW Community College and Reid State Community College!

Earlier this year, the ACCS announced a $30 million investment funded by the U.S. Navy to modernize and expand maritime workforce training at four Alabama community colleges, including the three mentioned above and Coastal Alabama Community College.

The funding will enable the colleges to expand their submarine manufacturing and shipbuilding training programs and assist the Navy, in building one Columbia-class and two Virginia-class submarines each year. Achieving this production target requires a dramatic expansion of America’s maritime industrial workforce, and Alabama’s community colleges are positioned to play a central role in delivering that talent pipeline.

The ACCS expects to produce more than 800 skilled trades professionals annually. These students will fill high-demand skilled trades that provide strong career opportunities and play a vital role in our national security.

🎓 Trenholm State Community College continues preparing future healthcare professionals through hands-on training, student support, and workforce-focused education opportunities.

Pictured below are students from the CNA program, including Destinee Daniels, who recently served as the CNA program representative at graduation. Destinee shared that the program helped her gain valuable healthcare skills while building meaningful relationships with classmates, instructors, and patients.

Not only did Destinee represent her class well, but she also gained one of her best friends along the way — a reminder that this program changes lives both professionally and personally.

Southern Union State Community College recently organized two STEAM Summer Camps designed to engage students across multiple age groups and spark interest in STEAM career pathways.

The camps provided hands-on, interactive learning experiences for local middle AND high school students, helping to promote science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics as exciting and attainable career options.

These opportunities continue to inspire students to explore future careers in high-demand fields right here in our community!

Shelton State Community College is preparing to launch the Summer Camp coming June 9–10, 2026! Hands-on learning and fun experiences ahead.

One highlight that really stoodout were The Young Leaders of East Alabama at Chattahoochee Valley Community College who took part in a dynamic Leadership Development Day designed to expand exposure, build confidence, and strengthen future-ready skills.

Students began with a guided tour of the Aflac Tower, learning about leadership, company culture, and organizational impact. They then participated in interactive leadership development and personality-focused activities at the East Alabama Chamber of Commerce.

The experience concluded at the Columbus Civic Center, where students explored sports and event operations and connected through a fun ice skating activity.

Just look at the meaningful opportunities for students to engage with industry, develop leadership skills, and explore future career pathways!

Wallace State Community College Career Coordinator Program has been busy this past quarter connecting students with meaningful career exploration opportunities.

From “Industry Comes to WSCC” events, where students networked directly with employers, to health sciences career fairs, students gained valuable exposure to in-demand career pathways and real-world expectations.

These experiences continue to strengthen student awareness, build professional connections, and support workforce readiness across programs. Wallace State Center for Career & Workforce Development

Trenholm State Community College Career Services Department continues to grow and strengthen its impact through new team members and expanded student engagement efforts.

🌟 We are excited to welcome Career Success Coach Angie Lane
Angie is actively supporting students through career advising sessions and targeted workshops focused on career exploration and readiness. She also participated in the 2026 Youth Job and Activity Fair at Gateway Park, engaging high school students from Carver, JAG, Percy Julian, and Park Crossing schools. This outreach supported student career development, promoted the Career Achiever Scholarship, and led to follow-up requests for additional career support from students and educators.

🤝 We also welcome Employer Relations Specialist Jeremy Hodge
Jeremy is advancing employer outreach efforts through participation in a Community Job Fair in Prattville, AL and a Parent University networking event. He is also coordinating customized employment support for students in the Computer Information Systems program.

Together, these efforts are strengthening connections between students, employers, and career pathways—supporting workforce readiness and student success across Trenholm State.