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In an effort to bridge the opportunity gap for rural students, Innovate Alabama is launching two pilot programs aimed at developing workforce talent in cybersecurity and entrepreneurship—two fields critical to Alabama’s economic growth. The Alabama Cybersecurity Fellowship and the Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities Program will provide hands-on learning experiences, helping students gain industry-relevant skills while reinforcing the state’s commitment to keeping homegrown talent in Alabama.
“By launching the Alabama Cybersecurity Fellowship and expanding the CEO Program into new communities, Innovate Alabama is actively creating pathways for rural students to access high-demand STEM and entrepreneurial opportunities,” said Shannon Allen, who leads Innovate Alabama’s talent development pillar. “These initiatives not only equip students with essential skills but also foster a sense of belonging and purpose within their local economies, ensuring that talent is nurtured and retained within our state.”
Expanding the CEO Program: Fostering Local Entrepreneurs
Innovate Alabama is partnering with Decatur-Morgan CEO to expand the CEO Program into four additional communities: Athens, Monroeville, Eutaw, and Woodlawn. The program, which has operated successfully in Decatur and Madison for several years, is based on the Midland Institute’s curriculum and designed as a year-long, tuition-free course for high school students with entrepreneurial aspirations.
Unlike traditional classroom learning, the CEO Program immerses students in real-world business environments, where they meet daily in local businesses, develop leadership skills, and start their own businesses—both individually and as a class—while earning course credit.
“It’s more than just an educational experience—it’s an economic development tool that helps drive local growth,” said Maegan Schwindling, facilitator of Decatur-Morgan CEO. “By immersing students in the local business ecosystem and challenging them to start their own ventures, CEO fosters a deep connection to their hometowns. Many choose to stay in their hometowns or return after pursuing secondary education, contributing to the Alabama economy and bringing fresh ideas to communities, ultimately driving sustainable growth from within.”
Piloting the Alabama Cybersecurity Fellowship: Preparing Students for High-Demand STEM Careers
With an increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals nationwide, Innovate Alabama has partnered with Advantage Consulting and Solutions to launch the Alabama Cybersecurity Fellowship in South Alabama. This semester-long program is designed to provide Computer Information Systems students from local community colleges with paid, work-based learning opportunities in cybersecurity and information technology.
Participants will receive stipends and gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity best practices, working with Department of Defense contractors and corporate partners to apply their skills in real-world settings.
The program was recently launched in partnership with Enterprise State Community College, Trenholm State Community College, and Wallace Community College, with future expansion planned across the state.
“The Alabama Cybersecurity Fellowship provides students with hands-on experience that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application,” said Kelvin Seldon, director of the Alabama Cybersecurity Fellowship. “Through this initiative, students will gain insight into cybersecurity best practices and develop the skills needed to support critical industries. This program not only enhances career opportunities for Alabama’s students but also ensures that our state remains competitive in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity.”
A Strategic Investment in Alabama’s Workforce and Economy
By launching these two initiatives, Innovate Alabama is making a strategic investment in the state’s future workforce. The Alabama Cybersecurity Fellowship and CEO Program provide rural students with access to high-growth career fields that were once largely concentrated in urban centers.
With a focus on entrepreneurship, STEM education, and workforce retention, these programs are designed to strengthen local economies and position Alabama as a leader in workforce innovation.
“Innovate Alabama is not just preparing students for future careers—it’s laying the groundwork for long-term economic prosperity,” Allen said. “By equipping students with the skills and resources to succeed in cybersecurity and entrepreneurship, we’re ensuring that Alabama’s workforce remains strong, competitive, and rooted in our communities.”
Through these targeted investments, Innovate Alabama is reinforcing its mission: to connect students with meaningful career opportunities, drive local economic growth, and keep Alabama’s best and brightest talent right here at home.
