Looking for a job change? Get fast, free training in top trades through this program

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Sometimes, the right opportunity comes when you least expect it. For Dothan native Rashaun Walker, it came from a simple Facebook scroll.

He had been thinking about getting back into school for a while, when he noticed a post from Wallace Community College about free “Skills for Success” courses offered through the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center.

We sat down with Rashaun to learn how enrolling took him on a whole new path—one he never saw coming.

Opening doors for Alabamians statewide

The ACCS Innovation Center was created to connect people across Alabama with fast, flexible training for in-demand jobs.

Through its Skills for Success program, learners can take short, free courses through their local Alabama community college that teach the basics of high-demand trades—everything from construction and manufacturing to health care and hospitality.

Each course is designed to help participants gain entry-level skills quickly and often includes direct connections with local employers ready to hire. For Rashaun, that connection made all the difference.

Building skills + confidence

Rashaun originally signed up for a Heavy Equipment Operator course, but when travel proved tricky, staff at Wallace suggested another option closer to home: the Skills for Success Electrical Helper course, part of the Residential Construction Academy.

The Residential Construction Academy combined carpentry and electrical training and ended with a job fair hosted by the Dothan Home Builders Association. There, participants could meet local employers and explore different trades.

At the fair, Rashaun met Tammy Barnes, who was there on behalf of her husband, Jimmy Barnes, owner of J&B Custom Carpentry in Dothan. Though Rashaun hadn’t completed the carpentry portion of the program, the Skills for Success training equipped him with the confidence and foundational skills to pursue the opportunity.

After reaching out to “Mr. Jimmy,” who offered him a chance, Rashaun learned on the job, asked questions and quickly proved himself as a dedicated member of the J&B Carpentry team.

More than just a job

For Rashaun, this experience became about more than just learning a trade:

“I lost my dad in October, and being around this group and doing what they do has been a very healing process. I actually have a really good time with them, and they’re really good people.

I’ve gotten a lot more out of it than just a paycheck. I didn’t know I needed it, but I did.”

Rashaun Walker, Carpenter, J&B Carpentry

Today, Rashaun is thriving on the job site, working alongside a crew of six and finding joy in building something tangible every day.

“I’ve always been a fan of architecture and interior design. I love seeing how houses come together. It reminds me of working with my dad when I was younger. I’ve learned to really value these relationships—they mean a lot.”

Rashaun Walker, Carpenter, J&B Carpentry

Connecting employers with top talent

For employers like Jimmy Barnes, the Skills for Success initiative is helping bridge the gap between job seekers and workforce needs.

“He’s got a great work ethic. He comes in every day, works hard and fits right in. That’s exactly what we look for.”

Jimmy Barnes, Owner, J&B Carpentry

As for Rashaun, he’s become a walking testament to what’s possible when curiosity meets opportunity.

“When I tell people about it, they can’t believe it’s real. But now I’m able to recommend Skills for Success firsthand.”

Rashaun Walker, Carpenter, J&B Carpentry

Looking into courses at Wallace Community College? Contact wfd@wallace.edu for more info.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Learn more about workforce training opportunities through the ACCS Innovation Center.

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