Birmingham launches new job training initiative

The City of Birmingham launched Reinvest Birmingham at a City Hall press conference Thursday, April 23.

Led by Birmingham’s Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity (IEO), Reinvest Birmingham, a comprehensive workforce training program, is designed to remove barriers to employment, strengthen career pathways and connect residents to quality jobs.

The much-anticipated workforce program will serve the following Birmingham neighborhoods:

• Pratt City
• North Birmingham
• Northside
• Smithfield

Over the past year, listening sessions have been held throughout these communities to help shape the program.

$20 million grant supports Reinvest Birmingham

Reinvest Birmingham was made possible by a $20 million investment from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration’s Recompete Pilot Plan.

“Removing barriers to employment is essential to building a stronger, more inclusive economy where every resident has a fair shot at success.

“Connecting our residents to quality, good-paying jobs not only uplifts families but also drives sustainable growth across our entire city. Reinvest Birmingham is here to help bridge the gaps.” 

Mayor Randall L. Woodfin

Archie Stewart, Reinvest plan officer, introduced the workforce partners at the event:

• Lawson State Community College  (Workforce component leader)
• AIDT
• Ed Farm
• Strive Birmingham
• Jones Valley Teaching Farm
•  Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama (¡HICA!)
• Manufacture Good
• CRL Resources
• Guild Education

In addition to announcing the partners, Stewart introduced the Reinvest Birmingham team.

At the end of the press conference, Mayor Woodfin summed up purpose of the new initiative:

“Economic mobility is a fancy term. I want to put our people to work. I want to give our residents an opportunity. The people sitting here will see to that.”

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