New, free workforce training program coming to east Alabama—CREATE

As workforce shortages loom over employers, one Alabama community is looking to get creative with how the community can fill the need for trained trade workers. Here are the details on the new CREATE program.

About the new CREATE program

The program essentially serves two sides of the coin—it’ll allow people interested in trades to get free training and it will help employers to fill high-demand jobs. It’s called the CREATE program, which stands for Choccolocco Research, Education, Arts, and Technology Experience. The 16-week program offers training in construction, electrical and plumbing work.

Three entities are working together to bring this program to life, according to WVTM:

• Oxford school system
• City of Oxford
• Calhoun County Economic Development Council

According to ABC33/40 News, classes will begin in February.

The program is completely free for students, thanks to funding from the construction industry. As reported by ABC33/40 News, a $300,000 grant from the Alabama Construction Industry Craft Training board is making it possible. Since students can go on to earn high hourly rates, CREATE is a great opportunity for students in East Alabama.

Want updates like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter today.