Certain professions require a human element that cannot be completely replaced with technology; nursing, especially, comes to mind. Nurses are in high-demand both statewide and nationally. Community colleges and universities throughout Alabama have enhanced their programs to try to fill the labor shortage.
Recently the Alabama Retail Association explained to us the significance of the economic impact of small retailers - especially in small towns that rely on their sales tax base. Retailers employ 1 in 4 of all private sector employees in Alabama, which equates to almost 400,000 Alabama residents.
It is no surprise that truckers are on this list. Distribution and Logistics is one of the state of Alabama's targeted business sectors. Alabama remains a hub for distribution and transportation logistics both nationally and globally. #Our67

More here in the Alabama Political Reporter:
​ https://www.alreporter.com/2019/03/29/truck-drivers-nurses-and-retail-salespersons-the-most-sought-after-employees

Thank you to Mayor Tab Bowling and the Decatur community for your work. The State of the City Address was a great way to start the day!
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We are pictured with Miss Mary-Peyton Propst, high school freshman and Volunteer of the Year, who also led the Pledge of Allegiance at this morning's breakfast. It is refreshing to see young people involved in their community. #Our67

Thank you to the DeKalb County Republican Women for the opportunity to speak this evening about Economic Development: Principles and Practice. We build Alabama together! #Our67 ​

​The agriculture industry has always been a dominant part of our state's economy. I enjoyed visiting with the St. Clair County Cattlemen's Association. We shared information about available funding for college students who wish to study agriculture. Scholarships are available now through the Alabama Cattlemen's Association and Alabama Agribusiness Council. Apply by 30 March 2019. #Our67

The participation of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) in the Von Braun Center for Science and Innovation’s University Consortium reaffirms our state’s willingness to collaborate and train a workforce that can perform well in high-demand careers centered upon constant technological advancements. This workforce development initiative will aid in research and development and will also help cultivate the skills desired by employers in dominant industries in Alabama such as aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing.

More here: https://www.alreporter.com/2019/03/19/community-colleges-system-enters-agreement-with-braun-center-for-science-and-innovation/

We always have good conversation at the Madison County Republican Men's Club Breakfast. Today's keynote speaker was Congressman Bradley Byrne, now running for US Senate.  March 2019 marks the 411th consecutive meeting. #Our67

Considering the myriad of global trade disputes that dominated worldwide news last year, it is impressive that Alabama maintained $21.3 billion in exports. Other countries demonstrated a continued need for made in Alabama products, especially in the industries of transportation as well as aerospace.
With global companies continuing to seek products made in Alabama, it is important that our state continues to stay on the forefront of issues that affect economic and foreign policy as well as international trade. Organizations such as the Export Alabama Alliance, Alabama District Export Council, North Alabama International Trade Association, US Chamber of Commerce, and Birmingham Council on Foreign Relations disseminate information and therefore help economic development professionals make educated decisions to best serve the people of Alabama.
More here in the Alabama Political Reporter: