Now, with their 2022 POWER award, Wallace State’s Supporting Electric Vehicle Manufacturing and Maintenance in North Alabama project will put their assessment into action. Students in the Mechatronics, Automotive Services, and Diesel Technician programs will now focus more closely on smart manufacturing, servicing electric vehicles and electric heavy-duty trucks, and other automotive and skills certifications for emerging industry needs. The project will partner with renowned organizations such as the American Trucking Association, Freightliner, Kenworth, and Mercedes-Benz to ensure students are both equipped for potential employers and connected to high-wage opportunities.  

By protecting existing automotive workers, and training both incumbent and new workers, for continued relevance and upward mobility, Wallace State is helping build a competitive workforce prepared for the increased demand for electric vehicles. They hope to serve 230 students by the third year of programming, with a business impact supporting 15 counties in north central Alabama.  

Learn more about ARC’s role in growing the automotive industry in Alabama and Mississippi in this discussion from Stop #3: Building Appalachian Businesses of the Appalachia Envisioned Roadshow.