Alabama, August 8, 2025
News Summary
Central Six AlabamaWorks! has announced it will shut down by the end of 2024 following a loss of critical state funding. Established in 2014, the organization connected job seekers with employers across six counties in Alabama, playing a vital role in workforce development. The decision follows changes instituted by the Alabama Workforce Transformation Act, affecting the organization’s funding strategy. Future efforts may see programs transitioning to the Birmingham Business Alliance to maintain workforce support.
Central Six AlabamaWorks! to End Operations by 2024
In the heart of Alabama, a significant shift is on the horizon as Central Six AlabamaWorks! has announced it will conclude its operations by the end of 2024. This decision comes in light of losing critical state funding effective September 30, 2024. Founded in 2014, Central Six has played an instrumental role in linking employers with job seekers across several counties.
Impact on the Region
For the past several years, Central Six has been a beacon of hope for many. The organization actively served six counties: Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker. Through its dedicated efforts, Central Six engaged over 135 employers and connected more than 1,000 individuals to various workforce development opportunities last year alone. That’s no small feat!
The Reason for Change
The funding alteration is largely attributed to the Alabama Workforce Transformation Act, passed last year, which led to the establishment of the Department of Workforce. This change in funding strategy means that many of the programs and services Central Six provided will come to a halt at the end of next year.
Future Outlook
Despite these changes, there is a silver lining. The board members of Central Six will continue to serve in place throughout the year to oversee the transition process. This is to ensure a smooth handover and to explore potential collaborations that might preserve some of the organization’s critical workforce functions.
Looking for Alternatives
In a bid to maintain the momentum created over the years, the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) is actively exploring ways to absorb some of Central Six’s programs and initiatives. They’ve initiated discussions to craft a memorandum of understanding that aims to pivot in line with their economic development strategic plan. This means that while Central Six winds down, its mission of connecting jobs with opportunities won’t necessarily disappear.
Workforce Statistics
On the broader economic front, Alabama’s workforce participation rate currently stands at 58%. This figure is notably lower than the national average of 62.2%, making it one of the lower rates in the country. The workforce participation rate reflects the percentage of the working-age population that is either employed or actively seeking employment, which underlines the importance of organizations like Central Six in bridging these gaps.
Mission and Accomplishments
At its core, Central Six has always been about recruiting, training, and empowering a competent workforce tailored to the needs of various businesses and industries. With the loss of their operational capacity looming, stakeholders are hopeful that through partnerships and strategic discussions, some of their invaluable services can continue.
FAQ
What is Central Six AlabamaWorks!?
Central Six AlabamaWorks! is an organization that connects employers with job seekers and offers workforce development resources in specific Alabama counties.
Why is Central Six shutting down?
The organization is ceasing operations due to the loss of state funding as part of changes established by the Alabama Workforce Transformation Act.
When will Central Six end its operations?
Central Six plans to conclude operations by the end of 2024.
What will happen to the services provided by Central Six?
Efforts are underway for organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance to take over some programs and initiatives to maintain workforce support in the community.
How does Alabama’s workforce participation compare nationally?
Alabama’s workforce participation rate is currently at 58%, which is lower than the national average of 62.2%.
Key Features of Central Six AlabamaWorks!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 2014 |
| Counties Served | Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Walker |
| Employers Engaged | 135+ |
| Individuals Connected | 1,000+ |
| National Grants Utilized | $500,000 |
| Projected Shutdown | End of 2024 |
| Current Workforce Participation Rate | 58% |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Central Six AlabamaWorks! to Cease Operations by Year’s End
Birmingham Awarded $20 Million Grant for Workforce Development
$20M Federal Grant Awarded to Birmingham for Investments in Four Communities
Additional Resources
- Bham Now: Central Six AlabamaWorks! to End Operations by 2024
- AL.com: Alabama Workforce Operation Shuttering
- Yellowhammer News: Workforce Development in Alabama
- Wikipedia: Workforce Development
- Google Search: Alabama Workforce Transformation Act
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
