Reviewed by: Pat Byington
Central Six AlabamaWorks! ceasing operations after funding cut
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On August 7, leadership at CentralSix AlabamaWorks! announced that the workforce development program will be ceasing operations by the end of the year following the loss of funding from the State of Alabama.
About CentralSix AlabamaWorks!
Founded in 2014, the Central Six Development Council—also known as Central Six AlabamaWorks!—is a workforce development program dedicated to supporting the regional economy by “recruiting, training and empowering a highly skilled workforce driven by business and industry needs.”
In 2024, the organization connected more than 1,000 individuals with workforce development opportunities and engaged with 135+ employers in six counties in Central Alabama:
- Blount County
- Chilton County
- Jefferson County
- Shelby County
- St. Clair County
- Walker County
Central Six AlabamaWorks! ceasing operations; here’s what’s next
According to a press release, Central Six AlabamaWorks! will no longer receive state funding after September 30 due to streamlining efforts from the State of Alabama’s Department of Workforce’s new workforce development system.
“Central Six has always been about connecting employers with responsive workforce solutions. While our organization is transitioning, that mission remains vital to Greater Birmingham’s economic future.
Our collaboration with BBA represents our commitment to ensuring the employer relationships and workforce development expertise we’ve built over the past decade continues to benefit the region in new and sustainable ways.”
Kristen Holder, Executive Director, Central Six AlabamaWorks!
To help the region’s employees remain connected to opportunities, Central Six AlabamaWorks! is collaborating with the Birmingham Business Alliance to explore ways to preserve critical workforce functions.
“The Birmingham Business Alliance is proud to explore this opportunity in alignment with our economic development strategic plan currently in refinement. Strong regional economies require strong workforce systems, and we’re committed to engaging employers in shaping what comes next for Greater Birmingham.
Steve Ammons, President and CEO, BBA
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