Yellowhammer Times

Governor Kay Ivey has announced the creation of the Alabama Department of Workforce (ADOW), an initiative intended to unify and modernize the state's approach to workforce development. The announcement took place at a launch event on the steps of the Alabama State Capitol, with participation from business leaders, education officials, and representatives from all of Alabama's 67 counties.

“Alabama’s workforce is our greatest competitive advantage,” Governor Ivey said. “This unified approach connects individual career advancement to statewide prosperity, ensuring that our human capital drives continued economic growth across all communities.”

Secretary Greg Reed will head the new department. He explained that ADOW’s mission is to eliminate obstacles and offer clear routes for residents to improve their economic situations through coordinated services. The agency brings together workforce programs that were previously managed separately. This change is intended to address what officials described as Alabama’s “workforce participation paradox”—a low unemployment rate of 2.9% but a workforce participation rate of only 57.8%.

A significant focus for ADOW will be supporting young adults between ages 20 and 29, particularly those affected by the “26 cliff,” which refers to losing access to healthcare and other supports at age 26.

“We’re not just fixing problems—we’re building Alabama’s competitive future,” said Secretary 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.”

Secretary Reed also noted that the department will use local career centers as community hubs, expand outreach efforts, and employ digital workforce matching systems with tele-case management to reach residents in every county.

ADOW aims to serve as the main authority for workforce issues in Alabama, providing reliable data and oversight while focusing on workforce services and safety standards. The strategy includes aligning agencies and stakeholders to create smoother transitions from education to employment and eliminating inefficiencies caused by previously separated programs.

Technology will play a role in the new department’s efforts through real-time labor market analytics, virtual training, and digital job-matching tools. However, Secretary Reed emphasized that personal relationships through community partnerships will remain central.

The formation of ADOW reflects a legislative commitment to efficient governance and sets high targets for increasing workforce participation across the state.

“This represents the most ambitious workforce development initiative Alabama has undertaken,” Secretary Reed stated. “We’re creating a foundation for lasting growth that benefits every community and ensures no Alabamian navigates their career journey alone.”

For further information about the Alabama Department of Workforce, visit https://workforce.alabama.gov/.