Oxford, AL – CREATE, the Regional Workforce Center in East Alabama, continues to make a significant impact across Calhoun County by offering career and technical education to both high school students and adults. During the 2024–2025 school year, over 300 Oxford High School students received hands-on instruction in career pathways such as Engineering, Green Power, Computer Science, Modern Manufacturing, and Robotics.
Thanks to a $1.1 million appropriation secured through legislative support from Senator Keith Kelley and Representatives Steve Hurst and Chad Robertson, CREATE will now expand offerings to additional school systems throughout East Alabama, including Anniston City, Jacksonville City, and Calhoun County Schools.
Starting this month, CREATE is introducing three new pathways: Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity, and Electrical & Mechanical Industrial Maintenance (IMPACT). These additions are expected to increase access to high-demand career fields for students in grades 10–12 from partner systems.
Seats are currently available in:
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Computer Science & Cybersecurity (AP Computer Science Principles & AP Computer Science A)
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Law Enforcement
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Engineering
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Green Power
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Robotics
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IMPACT (a dual enrollment course with Gadsden State Community College)
Students interested in enrolling should contact their school principal or guidance counselor. Further inquiries can be directed to Melanie Brooks, Career Tech Director for Oxford City Schools.
In addition to its youth programs, CREATE also serves the adult population. Through a grant from the Alabama Construction Industry Craft Training (CICT) Board, over 400 adults have benefited from evening commercial construction classes. A new 12-week course begins August 18, 2025, offering instruction in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and welding. These classes are free and open to any adult over 18.
More information can be found at alabamacreate.com or on the CREATE Technology and Innovation Center Facebook page.
