FORT PAYNE– DeKalb Works has earned an Innovate Alabama Network designation and a monetary award to support new workforce initiatives in DeKalb County.

The nonprofit was formed by the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority. It focuses on workforce development, economic mobility, and talent attraction.

Through the designation, DeKalb Works joins a statewide network focused on Alabama’s innovation economy. The network connects organizations working to develop talent and create new opportunities.

In addition, the award will support several projects in DeKalb County over the next 12 months.

New Workforce and Talent Initiatives Planned

DeKalb Works plans to create a digital Workforce Alignment Hub. The organization will also hold quarterly Talent Development Roundtables.

In addition, it plans to launch a pilot Talent Attraction and Retention Campaign. The award will help support those projects as they move forward.

Together, the initiatives will connect employers, educators, workforce organizations, and community leaders. They are also designed to help DeKalb County attract and retain workers.

Dr. Brett Johnson serves as executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority. He is also CEO of DeKalb Works.

Johnson said innovation has long played an important role in DeKalb County.

“Innovation is in DeKalb County’s DNA,” Johnson said.

He pointed to industries and railroads that transformed local communities in the late 1800s. Later, hosiery manufacturing became a major part of the county’s economy.

Agriculture has also changed through the use of science and technology, Johnson said. Farmers have used those advances to improve production on local farms.

Today, thousands of DeKalb County residents work in several advanced industries. Those include automotive manufacturing, energy, structural steel, electrical components, and distribution.

Johnson said that history gives DeKalb County a strong foundation for future growth.

“That same spirit makes DeKalb County a great place for innovators to build a life, a career, a business, or a family,” Johnson said.

As a result, the talent campaign will focus on telling DeKalb County’s story. It will also highlight the county’s workforce, communities, and economic opportunities.

Effort Builds on Existing Workforce Programs

The new projects will build on DeKalb Works’ broader workforce efforts.

The organization works to connect people with career opportunities. It also helps local employers strengthen their workforce pipelines.

In addition, DeKalb Works promotes partnerships among education, industry, government, and community organizations.

The Innovate Alabama designation will provide another opportunity for collaboration. DeKalb Works can now work more closely with similar organizations across Alabama.

Through those connections, participants can share ideas, resources, and workforce strategies.

DeKalb Works said the overall effort will strengthen DeKalb County’s ability to attract talent. At the same time, the organization hopes to retain more workers and support continued economic growth.