Alabama Appoints New Chief for Workforce Routes Division

On Wednesday, Alabama Labor Force Secretary Greg Reed announced the appointment of Franklin Johnson as the head of the newly established workforce routes division.

“Franklin Johnson brings a wealth of experience to this newly created role and we’re thrilled to have him on board,” Reed mentioned in a statement. “I believe he will offer strong leadership and foster strategic growth as we move forward in our workforce mission.”

The Workforce Routes Division, part of the Alabama Department of Labor, was initiated by Congress in 2024 through the Alabama Workforce Transformation Act. This act mandates that every sector must integrate workforce development functions and funding mechanisms into workforce routes, with the department acting as a centralized hub for data and information on state workforce activities.

Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “I’m honored to be appointed as Chief of Alabama Workforce Development and eager to collaborate with many stakeholders involved in workforce development here. A strong workforce is essential for a thriving economy. I have much to learn but look forward to helping further our mission.”

According to the Department of Labor and Power, Johnson will supervise the department’s workforce development initiatives, which encompass employment services, labor market information, apprenticeships, and STEM training.

This position involves various legal, policy, and governmental matters, necessitating communication with the governor’s office, legislators, and related stakeholders.

Johnson is a seasoned attorney, having spent over eight years as an in-house lawyer for Alabama real estate agents. His previous experience includes serving as a deputy legal advisor in the governor’s office, as well as working as deputy chief of staff.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Auburn University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Alabama School of Law.

The programs overseen by Johnson’s division cover a broad range of initiatives, including the Alabama Workforce Board, the Regional Workplace Committee, the Alabama Career Center System Employment Services, the Alabama Apprentice Office, the Alabama STEM Council, the Bureau of Education and Workplace Statistics, the Alabama Commission on Qualifications and Career Pathways, and the Alabama Commission on Credit Quality and Transparency.