Gadsden, AL – The Etowah Chamber recently hosted The Etowah Update: Workforce Development Summit, presented by Gadsden State Community College, at the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Center. The event brought together educators, industry leaders, and workforce experts for a panel discussion on career opportunities and workforce development in Etowah County and the surrounding region.
Gadsden State President Alan Smith opened the summit by emphasizing the college’s commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers and supporting the region’s workforce needs. “Our mission is to connect students with meaningful opportunities and ensure our local employers have the talent they need to grow,” Smith said. “Events like this Summit help us bridge the gap between education and industry, and they highlight the incredible potential right here in Etowah County.”
The panel included Andy Robertson, Dean of Workforce Development at Gadsden State; Andy Green, Dean of Student Services; Jeff Lankford, Director of the Alabama Technology Network Center; Omar Blasingame of Honda Manufacturing of Alabama; David Hooks, Executive Director of the Gadsden-Etowah Industrial Development Authority; and Karen Slupe from Jacksonville State University College of Business.
Panelists emphasized hands-on experience and mentorship as essential for preparing students for careers in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, technology, and business. Robertson encouraged bringing students directly into the workplace. “Seeing is believing. Bring them. Come with them. Let us see it,” he said. Robertson shared the story of a young man who, after completing a two-year program at Gadsden State, now earns $60 an hour locally. He highlighted the value of pairing students with recent graduates to provide honest insight into both the challenges and rewards of entering the workforce.
Jeff Lankford, speaking from the perspective of workforce development support, emphasized the need for career pathways that keep skilled workers in the community. “It’s not just about filling positions,” he said. “It’s about developing talent and connecting students with real-world opportunities in technology and advanced manufacturing. Exposure and hands-on experience are key to inspiring careers.”
Omar Blasingame echoed the importance of early exposure, noting that plant visits and interaction with team members often shape students’ career decisions. “When students see how modern manufacturing works firsthand, it sparks interest and motivates them to pursue these opportunities right here at home,” he said.
Karen Slupe highlighted the importance of aligning education with workforce needs. “Preparing students for meaningful careers requires collaboration between schools, colleges, and employers,” she said. “We want students to graduate with the skills and confidence to contribute immediately to their chosen fields.”
The panel also shared strategies for employers to engage students through mentorships, tours, and hands-on training programs. Robertson encouraged honest communication between students and recent graduates. “Tell them the pros and cons, the good and bad. I guarantee the positives outweigh any challenges,” he said.
David Hooks summed up the purpose of the summit: “This is about building bridges between education and employment. When students, parents, and employers communicate openly, everyone benefits, our students succeed, our businesses thrive, and our community grows stronger.”
The summit provided attendees with valuable insights into workforce development trends, practical career pathways, and strategies for connecting students with high-demand industries. The Etowah Chamber thanked Gadsden State Community College for hosting and sponsoring the event and all panelists for sharing their expertise.
For more information on workforce development initiatives in Etowah County, contact the Etowah Chamber at 256-543-3472, email info@etowahchamber.org, or visit etowahchamber.org.
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