Gadsden, AL — Alan Smith has taken on a new leadership role at Gadsden State Community College, where he will serve as vice president of Capital Projects, Community Relations, and Workforce Development. In his expanded role, Smith will oversee critical initiatives aimed at enhancing the college’s infrastructure, fostering community connections, and advancing workforce development efforts to meet regional and statewide needs.
Smith expressed his enthusiasm for the position, saying, “I am honored to accept this position at Gadsden State. I look forward to continuing to work with faculty, staff, and community leaders to strengthen our workforce development initiatives, improve our facilities, and build stronger relationships within our community. Gadsden State will continue providing high-quality, accessible education and training that meets the needs of our students and the industries in Alabama.”
Since joining Gadsden State as dean of Workforce Development in 2019, Smith has led departments including Engineering Technologies, Applied Technologies, Adult Education Services, Continuing Education, and the Skills Training Division. In his new role, he will continue supervising these areas while also expanding his focus to include capital improvements and public relations.
Under Smith’s leadership, Gadsden State has seen significant advancements in career and technical education. Over $36 million has been invested in the college’s workforce development programs, and enrollment continues to grow. Key accomplishments include:
- Expanding Advanced Manufacturing Programs: Smith helped grow the East Alabama Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) and established the Consortium of Machining Education Training (CoMeT), which combine rigorous coursework with hands-on experiences at world-class manufacturing facilities.
- Securing Funding for State-of-the-Art Facilities: Smith played a pivotal role in funding and developing the Advanced Manufacturing and Workplace Skills Training Center on the East Broad Campus. The $24 million center offers cutting-edge training in high-demand industries such as Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, and Precision Machining.
Smith’s expertise extends beyond Gadsden State. He has been appointed by Governor Kay Ivey to serve on the Region 2 Workforce Development Committee and as a subject matter expert for the Alabama Committee on Credentialing and Career Pathways. He also serves as chair of the Workforce Commission for the Alabama Community College System (ACCS).
Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business and Economics and a Master of Science in Education from Auburn University. He later earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama.
Before joining Gadsden State, Smith taught agriscience at Hokes Bluff High School and building construction at the Marshall County Technical School. He also operated his own construction and cabinet-making business.
Smith has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- Teacher of the Year honors at multiple schools and career technical centers.
- Alabama’s Most Outstanding Agriscience Technology Teacher Award.
- The 2023 Chancellor’s Award for Administrators from the ACCS.
- The Excellence in Post-Secondary Administration Award from the Etowah Chamber.
As vice president, Smith is poised to continue driving growth and innovation at Gadsden State, ensuring that the college remains a cornerstone of education and workforce development in Alabama.
