MONTGOMERY, AL — Governor Kay Ivey announced Thursday the official launch of the Alabama Department of Workforce (ADOW), marking the most comprehensive workforce transformation in state history. The new department was unveiled on the steps of the Alabama State Capitol during a kickoff event that brought together business leaders, educators, public officials, and community representatives from all 67 counties.
“Alabama’s workforce is our greatest competitive advantage,” said Governor Ivey. “This unified approach connects individual career advancement to statewide prosperity, ensuring that our human capital drives continued economic growth across all communities.”
The newly formed department, led by Secretary Greg Reed, consolidates Alabama’s previously fragmented workforce programs under a single organizational structure. The initiative seeks to strengthen connections between education, training, and employment while addressing one of the state’s most pressing challenges — a workforce participation rate of 57.8% despite historically low unemployment at 2.9%.
Secretary Reed outlined ADOW’s mission to “remove barriers and create clear pathways connecting people to prosperity through integrated services.” A key focus will be on supporting young Alabamians aged 20–29, particularly those facing the “26 cliff,” when they lose healthcare coverage and independence support.
“We’re not just fixing problems—we’re building Alabama’s competitive future,” said Reed. “Alabama’s greatest resource is its people, and when they thrive, we all rise. This department represents our commitment to meeting every Alabamian where they are and guiding them to where they want to be.”
ADOW plans to leverage existing career centers as local access points, supported by community outreach hubs and digital workforce-matching systems with tele-case management capabilities. The strategy emphasizes accessibility, ensuring all Alabamians—regardless of location—can connect with workforce resources in their own communities.
Comprehensive Workforce Strategy
The department’s long-term plan aims to establish ADOW as Alabama’s definitive authority on workforce development, focusing 90% of its operations on workforce services and safety oversight. Its unified structure aligns state agencies and industry partners to eliminate inefficiencies and promote seamless transitions from education to employment.
While embracing technological innovation through virtual training platforms, real-time labor market analytics, and digital case management, ADOW maintains a people-first focus by partnering with local organizations and trusted community leaders.
Legislative and Industry Support
The creation of ADOW has been widely supported by state legislators and industry partners who view it as a major step toward ensuring a skilled and sustainable workforce for Alabama’s future.
“This represents the most ambitious workforce development initiative Alabama has undertaken,” said Reed. “We’re creating a foundation for lasting growth that benefits every community and ensures no Alabamian navigates their career journey alone.”
The Alabama Department of Workforce now serves as the statewide entry point for career and employment services, bridging individual potential with collective progress.
For more information, visit workforce.alabama.gov.
