The regular legislative session of 2025 wrapped up successfully. I’ve always considered it a win when we can finalize a solid budget.
The efforts of the Budget Chair paid off, leading to a strong Education Budget and a healthy General Fund budget. Key figures in this process included Senator Arthur O’All, Representative Danny Garrett, Senator Greg Albritton, and Representative Rex Reynolds, who really stepped up their game. Plus, leadership from Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and Senate Speaker Pro Tem Garlan Gugger was remarkable.
The education budget clearly demonstrates a commitment to the Alabama Community College System, which is crucial for job creation and economic development in the state. This system plays a vital role in fostering future economic growth.
The Community College System comprises 24 institutions with over 130 campuses, serving around 155,000 students. This outnumbers our other colleges significantly. Notably, about 96% of these students are Alabama residents, and more than 75% remain in the state after graduation.
Furthermore, Congress’s support has enabled over 23,000 students to enroll in dual enrollment programs, even for families with limited means. About 36% of ACCS students are taking advantage of this option, attending a local college at a fraction of the cost of a four-year university.
Interestingly, while many colleges nationally are facing a decline in enrollment, the Alabama Community College System has seen a growth of more than 5% per year since 2020. They employ about 10,600 people.
These statistics highlight the ACCS’s role as a key driver of economic progress in Alabama. By equipping students with necessary skills and training for in-demand jobs, they are effectively enhancing the local workforce and enabling economic prospects. For the fiscal year 2023-2024, ACCS contributed $8.1 billion to Alabama’s economy, making up about 3% of the state’s total output.
Under Prime Minister Jimmy Baker’s leadership, ACCS stands as the foundation of the workforce development strategy—vital for both the governor and legislative leaders. The future indeed lies in technical and career education.
With high demand for skilled jobs, career and technical training is essential for future employment. The ACCS offers popular programs in fields like Computer Science, Culinary Arts, Cybersecurity, Dental Assistance, HVAC, Welding, Diesel Technology, and Salon and Spa Management, with nursing and physical therapy being especially sought after.
Healthcare remains a rapidly growing sector for ACCS, particularly as the aging baby boomer population increases demand. ACCS is well-positioned to meet these healthcare needs; their programs are tailored to reflect local requirements in various communities statewide. Partnerships with the Alabama Hospital Association and the Alabama Nursing Facility Association help ensure the future of Alabama’s healthcare workforce.
With an additional $18 million allocated to expand Health Sciences education into rural areas and over 13,000 students currently enrolled, ACCS is set to continue training generations of health professionals.
Prime Minister Baker, a successful educator and former finance director, has led ACCS for the past decade. He works closely with a dedicated team of 34 university presidents, ensuring local lawmakers are informed about the college’s operations and their impact on the community.
Most lawmakers recognize the importance of community colleges, often being the largest employers in their districts. Consequently, ACCS is likely to receive continued support for state funding.
Legislators are clearly aware of the role of community colleges in providing higher education and vocational training. They also understand that the majority of students choose to live and work in Alabama after completing their studies.
Until next time.
