Friday, April 19, 2024
More than 100 participants were able to get a step up in their career by attending the on-site ALEX Activation Event, hosted by the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles in partnership with Alabama Power, the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, and Ingram State Technical College. The Alabama Experience, or ALEX, is a mobile exhibit featuring a collection of interactive kiosks and informational pieces, as well as a knowledgeable staff who walk visitors through every aspect of life in Alabama. This workforce development tool allows people to be introduced to building trades, learn about educational opportunities, interact with local employers, and connect to thriving careers in the state. Those interested in finding work are matched to specific industries and introduced electronically to the proper representatives.
Within the trailer, ALEX provides career information in sectors spanning construction, information technology, and nursing, among many other paths. Participants compared the earning potential and cost of living between cities in Alabama and cities across the U.S. to plan effectively. Many of the careers have an earning potential of $100,000 or more. One of the most unique features of the trailer is a collection of virtual reality headsets, which allow participants to experience a normal day on the worksite using a full, 360-degree range of motion.
“ALEX offers a tremendous opportunity for bringing reentry and job training efforts to the next level,” said Cam Ward, Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles. “We are proud of our work with Alabama Power, the Alabama Community College System, and many other stakeholders to get more people ready to fill the in-demand jobs and industries that help move our state forward. I look forward to expanding these partnerships in the future.”