Walker County Development Authority to Open Satellite Office on Bevill State’s Sumiton Campus
February 27, 2025
Bevill State Community College (BSCC) and the Walker County Development Authority (WCDA) are proud to announce the opening of a WCDA satellite office on the Sumiton Campus of Bevill State Community College. This strategic partnership underscores the critical role of workforce development and industrial recruitment in Walker County, a region positioned for significant growth due to its proximity to I-22 and ongoing industrial development initiatives.
This new satellite office will allow WCDA to better serve businesses, industries, and community partners, ensuring that workforce development efforts align with the growing economic and industrial opportunities in Walker County.
“Bevill State Community College is committed to supporting economic development by providing industry-aligned training programs that prepare students for in-demand careers,” stated Dr. Joel Hagood, President of Bevill State Community College. “By partnering with the Walker County Development Authority and housing a satellite office on our Sumiton Campus, we are strengthening the connection between education, workforce training, and industrial recruitment. The Sumiton Campus is uniquely positioned for growth, located near I-22, just 15 miles from the I-65 exchange, and within close proximity to the Birmingham and Jefferson County markets. This strategic location, combined with our workforce training capabilities, makes Bevill State a key resource for industries looking to establish or expand in the region. We look forward to working together to attract new industries and provide the skilled workforce they need to thrive.”
David Knight, Executive Director of the Walker County Development Authority, commented: “The partnership between education, workforce training, and economic development is more critical now than ever before. Today’s advanced manufacturing processes require a skilled workforce that can hit the ground running and adapt quickly to new technologies as they develop. Bevill State is a key ally in our economic development efforts. With the growth of new development opportunities countywide, we are excited to establish a satellite office of the Walker County Development Authority on the Sumiton Campus. This expanded partnership will allow for more streamlined and efficient project management. Direct access to Bevill State’s facilities will also enable us to more effectively showcase the robust training capabilities the college provides to new and expanding industries.”
A Hub for Workforce Training & Economic Growth
Walker County has recently seen major industrial development initiatives, including projects like Heritage Industrial Park, infrastructure investments, and land acquisitions for future industrial growth. With Bevill State’s Sumiton Campus positioned in the heart of this development corridor, the College serves as a critical training resource for new and expanding industries.
Recent investments in Career Technical Education (CTE) programs on the Sumiton Campus further strengthen this workforce pipeline. Upgrades have been made to key training programs in:
- Automotive Technology
- Electrical Technology
- Machine Tool Technology
- Welding Technology
As part of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), Bevill State is committed to fulfilling its role as the state’s workforce training solution. ACCS institutions provide industry-driven education that equips students with the skills needed for Alabama’s evolving job market, helping businesses access a well-prepared workforce.
Strengthening Partnerships for Future Growth
This partnership between Bevill State and the WCDA highlights a shared commitment to fostering economic growth, attracting new industries, and positioning Walker County for long-term success. The WCDA satellite office on the Sumiton Campus will serve as a hub for collaboration, connecting business leaders, educators, and workforce development professionals to create new opportunities for the region.
For more information about the Walker County Development Authority, visit www.wceida.com.
About Bevill State Community College (BSCC):
Bevill State Community College is a public, two-year, "open door" institution committed to providing comprehensive education and support services for people in West Central Alabama and beyond. As a member of the Alabama Community College System, Bevill State serves over one-quarter million people across a seven-county area through its four main campuses and one instructional site. This expansive service area covers more than 4,600 square miles, from the Birmingham city limits to the Mississippi state line.
For more information, contact Tana Collins-Allred at 800.648.3271 ext. 5742 or by email at tana.collins@bscc.edu. Please visit our website at www.bscc.edu.