The Women's Foundation of Alabama has announced two distinguished speakers for its upcoming annual research showcase. This year's theme is “Clearing the Path: The Business Case for Child Care.”

The event's featured speakers, Suzanne P. Clark, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and Will Ainsworth, Alabama Lieutenant Governor, will present a variety of topics with a particular focus on child care. Let's discuss the topic.

During his speech, Mr. Clark will share his perspective on building and sustaining a successful national economy, and Mr. Ainsworth will discuss how to address Alabama's current workforce needs and the state's low labor force participation rate. will provide insight into potential solutions. The Lieutenant Governor believes we can partially solve this problem by investing in quality, affordable and accessible child care.

Related: Women's Foundation launches workforce fundraising campaign

“Child care is an essential resource for Alabama's workforce. While Alabama has been successful in recruiting and creating jobs in the industry, the lack of affordable, accessible, high-quality child care will continue to hinder the workforce. “This is clearly going to be a major barrier to economic growth and impact economic development across the state,” said Lillian Brand of the Women's Foundation. Alabama Vice President for Foreign Affairs.

“Supported by data-driven solutions, the Foundation will support elected officials, businesses, and citizen leaders in this critical turning point and pivotal opportunity to break down barriers impacting more than 85,000 families in Alabama. We are proud to partner with them.”

“Together, we can create innovative public policies that pave the way for all Alabamians to obtain and stay in high-quality jobs.”

The event will be held at Birmingham's Herbert Center on January 25th from 11:30am to 1pm.

This year's event is sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer at Yellowhammer News.