𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐌 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐥𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲

Elmore County continues to lead in workforce development and educational collaboration through strategic partnerships that connect classrooms, industry leaders, and community organizations.

A recent STEM-focused energy workshop hosted at 17 Springs in Millbrook highlighted how collaboration across education, business, and public leadership is helping prepare students for the future workforce needs of Alabama.

As technology and innovation continue reshaping industries across Alabama, local leaders emphasized the growing importance of investing in STEM education to ensure students are equipped for tomorrow’s careers.

“It is important for educators to have opportunities because technology is moving so fast,” said Cindy Browder, Energy and Technology Consultant at Central Alabama Electric Cooperative. “If we do not meet it before it hits, it could put us in a position of being left behind.”

Educators gathered for the daylong conference through a partnership between Alabama’s electric cooperatives and the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project.

Browder said empowering teachers with hands-on resources ultimately strengthens student learning and long-term workforce readiness.

“Educating the teachers empowers them to educate the children,” Browder said. “The hands-on approach allows students to learn and educate each other.”

The workshop also reinforced the direct connection between STEM education and workforce development throughout industries such as energy, utilities, infrastructure, technology, and skilled trades.

“Industries like ours and the workforce as a whole are constantly changing,” said Tracy Wright, STEM Director for Elmore County Public Schools. “STEM education equips students with critical thinking, problem-solving, technology, and innovation skills needed for future careers.”

Wright noted that initiatives like this help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world career opportunities while strengthening relationships between educators and industry professionals.

Partnerships remained a central theme throughout the event, with leaders emphasizing the importance of working together to support students and future workforce pipelines across the region.

“If you’re not familiar with the cooperative model, it’s about people and organizations working together toward a common goal,” said Van Smith, House Representative and CAEC Board of Trustees member. “Cooperatives unite their resources and efforts for the benefit of everyone, and that spirit of collaboration is what co-ops are all about.”

Smith encouraged educators to continue recognizing the long-term impact they are making through education and workforce preparation efforts.

“Do not lose sight of what you are building, creating, and stay focused on it,” Smith said.

Elmore County Superintendent Richard Dennis also highlighted the critical role partnerships continue to play in the county’s educational and economic development strategy.

“It takes partnerships even at your schools and in Elmore County,” Dennis said. “STEM is the future of education in our state and in this country.”

Dennis added that Elmore County’s long-term vision includes expanding opportunities not only through STEM education but also through broader STEAM initiatives that incorporate creativity and the arts alongside science and technology learning.

As partnerships between schools, industry leaders, utilities, and community organizations continue to grow, initiatives like this workshop demonstrate Elmore County’s commitment to building a strong workforce pipeline, supporting innovation, and creating long-term opportunities for future generations.​​​