ALABAMA – The Alabama Community College System’s (ACCS) Innovation Center unveiled three Haulmark mobile training trailers during a ribbon cutting ceremony at Columbiana Middle School on Wednesday.

Each career exploration trailer includes two new Tenstar simulators which will provide more than 20 simulations in fields like construction, transportation, agriculture, emergency services, and more. Using realistic virtual scenarios, participants can explore career pathways while developing essential employability skills in a safe, controlled environment.

“This investment brings real career exploration directly to students and communities across Alabama. Through the ACCS Innovation Center and our community college partners, we are creating earlier awareness, stronger pathways, and more opportunities for Alabamians to connect training to meaningful careers,” said Julie Frizzell, Chief of Operations for the ACCS Innovation Center.

Career exploration and innovative, accessible training is the root of the Skills for Success model – preparing individuals for rewarding careers while strengthening Alabama’s workforce and communities.

“Every Alabamian should feel pride today as Skills for Success rolls out their Career Exploration program. Two years ago, we testified before Congress on how Alabama became No. 1 in the nation for workforce innovation, and now it is programs such as this that’s maintaining that cutting edge,” said Chris Stricklin, President of Dunn University. “Through this program, our community colleges advance into the field of inspiring youth to a new tomorrow with tangible hands-on time in fields they want to enter.”

In addition to hands-on training, the career exploration trailers can develop decision-making, focus and situational awareness, helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and workforce needs.

Aligning with the current Skills for Success programs, the trailers can be utilized by middle school and high school students, in addition to appearing at community and state-sponsored events.

“This reflects what strong partnerships can accomplish for Alabama’s workforce. Together with our community colleges and state leaders, we are expanding opportunity and building clearer pathways from career exploration to employment,” said Keith Phillips, ACCS Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development/Executive Director of the Alabama Technology Network.

For program questions, please contact Matt Heaton, ACCS Innovation Center, Career Readiness Manager, [email protected]. Requests for onsite trailer visits trailers may be submitted online.

More than 24,000 individuals enrolled in Skills for Success courses in 2025 and more than 55,000 have enrolled since program inception. Delivered by Alabama’s 24 community colleges, Skills for Success serves adults and high school students through incumbent worker training and open enrollment programs. The program has partnered with 132 school systems and 409 high schools and tech centers in Alabama”.

The Innovation Center has developed more than 67 courses in partnership with industry to prepare Alabamians for high-demand careers and strong futures.

See all ACCS Innovation Center course offerings at https://innovation.accs.edu/