AL: Bevill State, C3 Launch 'Career BOO$T' Program to Strengthen Workforce in Northwest Alabama

Bevill State Community College (BSCC) and C3 of Northwest Alabama, Inc. (also known as the Northwest Alabama Economic Development Alliance) are proud to announce the launch of Career BOO$T, a new tuition reimbursement program designed to support workforce development and economic growth across Fayette, Lamar, and Marion counties.

Career BOO$T is the latest initiative under C3’s TIME (Tech Innovation Means Employment) program, which focuses on fueling tech and innovation opportunities in Northwest Alabama. The program aims to strengthen the local workforce by encouraging enrollment in high-demand technical fields and helping reduce barriers for students pursuing careers in skilled trades.

Funded through a $25,000 Innovate Alabama grant, Career BOO$T offers $1,500 in tuition reimbursement to qualifying graduates who complete approved technical certificates or degrees at Bevill State’s Hamilton or Fayette campuses. Eligible programs include high-priority career fields such as welding, electrical, and mechatronics, areas identified as critical to the region’s current and future workforce needs.

“This partnership is a powerful example of how collaboration between education and economic development can directly impact lives and communities,” said Dr. Joel Hagood, President of Bevill State Community College. “Career BOO$T will help ease the financial burden for our students while strengthening the talent pipeline for local employers. We are proud to work with C3 to drive progress for Northwest Alabama.”

"We’re excited about Career BOO$T and hope it encourages students and workers to explore high-demand advanced manufacturing and rural tech fields while reducing financial hurdles,” said Tom Wisemiller, President & CEO of C3 of Northwest Alabama. “Career Boost shows that the Northwest Alabama EDA region is a great place to launch rewarding careers and businesses. We’re proud to partner with Bevill State on this initiative and can’t wait to see its positive impact on our workforce and economy.”

The Career BOO$T program directly addresses skilled labor shortages, BOO$Ts workforce readiness, and aligns with the shared goal of cultivating a vibrant, innovative environment for local talent and employers. In addition to the tuition reimbursement, the funds may also help offset costs associated with entering the workforce, such as purchasing gear and tools required in some technical careers.

C3 plans to pursue additional funding partners to expand the Career BOO$T program in the future. The initiative not only supports individual success but also aims to stimulate long-term economic prosperity and reinforce Northwest Alabama’s reputation as a place where people want to live, work, and grow their businesses.

This partnership between Bevill State Community College and C3 is a strategic step toward fostering a pipeline of skilled professionals and creating new opportunities across the region.