Oxford, AL – Students from Cleburne County now have enhanced access to regional career training thanks to CREATE, East Alabama’s Regional Workforce Center, which is expanding its program offerings and school partnerships for the 2025–2026 academic year.
During the previous school year, CREATE served more than 300 Oxford High School students in career pathways including Engineering, Robotics, Green Power, Computer Science, and Modern Manufacturing. With new funding secured during the 2025 legislative session, the center is now welcoming students from additional school systems—including Cleburne County Schools.
Legislative leaders including Senator Keith Kelley, Representative Chad Robertson, and others were instrumental in securing a $1.1 million state appropriation to support CREATE’s operational and staffing costs. This funding allows the center to grow its programming and serve students from across East Alabama.
New pathways being introduced this fall include:
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Criminal Justice
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Cybersecurity
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IMPACT Electrical & Mechanical Industrial Maintenance (dual enrollment with Gadsden State)
Cleburne County students in grades 10–12 are eligible to enroll, with available seats in:
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AP Computer Science Principles & AP Computer Science A
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Law Enforcement
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Engineering
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Green Power
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Robotics
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Industrial Maintenance
Students or parents interested in enrolling should speak with school principals or guidance counselors. For program-specific questions, Melanie Brooks, Career Tech Director for Oxford City Schools, is available via email.
Additionally, CREATE continues to offer free evening commercial construction training for adults, with over 400 individuals served last year. The next 12-week session begins August 18, 2025, and includes hands-on instruction in trades such as carpentry, welding, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. Classes are held twice a week in the evenings and are open to all adults aged 18 and older.
Registration details are available on the CREATE website or social media platforms.
