Birmingham, Alabama, August 8, 2025
News Summary
Central Six AlabamaWorks! has announced its closure by the end of 2023 due to a loss of state funding. Established in 2014, the organization connected job seekers with workforce training opportunities, impacting over 1,000 individuals and 135 employers. The closure results from new workforce development policies in Alabama. The Birmingham Business Alliance plans to collaborate to continue vital workforce functions in the region amid the changing landscape.
Birmingham, Alabama – Central Six AlabamaWorks! has officially announced it will cease operations by the end of 2023 due to the loss of state funding. This significant decision was unveiled on August 7, marking a pivotal shift in the workforce development landscape within the region.
The organization, also recognized as the Central Six Development Council, was established in 2014 with a mission to enhance the regional economy by connecting businesses with training and workforce solutions tailored to industry needs. The abrupt withdrawal of financial support from the State of Alabama will take effect on September 30, following the implementation of a new workforce development system by the Alabama Department of Workforce. This policy change is a part of the broader Alabama Workforce Transformation Act, which was enacted last year.
In its last year of operations, Central Six AlabamaWorks! successfully facilitated workforce development opportunities for over 1,000 individuals and collaborated with more than 135 employers across six counties in Central Alabama: Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker. These contributions highlight the organization’s crucial role in addressing workforce challenges within the state, particularly in light of the current workforce participation rate of 58%, which is significantly lower than the national average of 62.2%.
With its funding set to diminish, Central Six is working alongside the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) to ensure that essential workforce functions continue in the region. The BBA plans to assess how it can adopt select programs and initiatives previously managed by Central Six while ensuring there is no overlap with existing workforce efforts. This initiative aligns with the BBA’s economic development strategic plan, which is currently undergoing refinement.
The board of Central Six will remain in position until the end of the year to facilitate a smooth transition during this period of change.
Central Six AlabamaWorks! has been a vital resource for workforce training and development in Central Alabama for nearly a decade. The impending closure signals a significant shift in how workforce needs may be addressed in the future, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by both job seekers and employers in the state.
Background on Central Six AlabamaWorks!
Founded in 2014, Central Six AlabamaWorks! aimed to create a skilled workforce that meets the needs of local businesses. Over the years, the organization has served as a bridge between job seekers and employers, adapting its offerings to respond to economic demands. It has focused on developing programs that facilitate skill acquisition and promote employment among the local population.
Implications of Funding Loss
The cessation of operations due to lost funding impacts not only the organization but also the broader economic landscape of Greater Birmingham and Central Alabama. As the community grapples with a lower workforce participation rate than the national average, the need for effective workforce solutions becomes more critical. The partnership with the Birmingham Business Alliance is seen as a necessary step to continue addressing these pressing issues in workforce development.
Future Prospects
The collaboration between Central Six AlabamaWorks! and the Birmingham Business Alliance emphasizes a commitment to maintaining the momentum of workforce development in the region. As the transition unfolds in the coming months, stakeholders will be closely monitoring how existing programs can be sustained and improved upon to ensure continued support for both job seekers and local employers.
FAQ Section
What is Central Six AlabamaWorks!?
Central Six AlabamaWorks! is an organization that connects employers with workforce development opportunities, aimed at building a skilled workforce to support the regional economy.
Why is Central Six AlabamaWorks! ceasing operations?
The organization is ceasing operations due to the loss of state funding resulting from changes in workforce development policies by the Alabama Department of Workforce.
When will Central Six AlabamaWorks! stop operations?
Central Six AlabamaWorks! will officially cease operations by the end of 2023, with funding reductions effective September 30, 2023.
What impact does this have on the local workforce?
The closure of Central Six may affect the availability of workforce development resources for job seekers and hinder the ability of local employers to find qualified candidates, especially in an area with a workforce participation rate lower than the national average.
Is there an alternative in place for workforce development?
Yes, Central Six is collaborating with the Birmingham Business Alliance to explore ways to continue essential workforce functions and programs in the region without duplicating efforts.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2014 |
| Service Area | Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Walker counties |
| Participants Connected (2024) | Over 1,000 individuals |
| Employers Engaged | More than 135 employers |
| State Funding Loss Effective | September 30, 2023 |
| Workforce Participation Rate | 58% (lower than national average of 62.2%) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon Visits Birmingham for Expansion
Homewood Welcomes New AtWork Birmingham Southwest Agency
Paramount Bar Nominated for Best Local Sports Bar
Birmingham’s Commitment to Revive Tech and Biotech Sector
UAB Faces Funding Cuts Impacting Birmingham’s Economy
Alabama Business Council Discusses Economic Growth in Dothan
Alabama’s Economic Growth Amid Workforce Challenges
Alabama Goodwill Hosts Fashion Event ‘Reclaimed’
Birmingham Ranked Among Top Cities for Recent Graduates
Alabama Lawmakers Address Community Needs During August Recess
Additional Resources
- Bham Now: Central Six AlabamaWorks Ceasing Operations
- Sylacauga News: Prattville Fire Department Donates Ambulance
- The Bama Buzz: New Technology Job Training Center in Prattville
- Wikipedia: Workforce Development
- AL.com: Alabama Workforce Operation Shuttering
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.
