There are thousands of jobs available in the construction industry across Alabama. To help close the gap to fill the positions, Skills for Success is offering no-cost training in several operator positions.

A program of the Alabama Community College System, Skills for Success is developed in partnership with the state’s businesses and industries.

More than 1,500 Alabamians have registered for training in industries such as construction, food and beverage, and trucking. The program is now offering free training to operate bulldozers and skid steers.

“Alabama is facing a critical shortage of skilled workers,” said Keith Phillips, vice chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development for the Alabama Community College System. “By delivering rapid training, Skills for Success quickly provides the trained workforce employers need to fill in-demand jobs.”

The first part of the training is offered online. Upon completion, students then take 16 hours of hands-on training with qualified instructors at any of the state’s 24 community and technical colleges.

To learn more about Skills for Success and to register for training, visit  innovation.accs.edu.

The Innovation Center is a division of the Alabama Community College System that brings together the state’s community colleges, business and industry, and community partners to deliver Skills for Success training. Visit innovation.accs.edu for more information.

David Palmore is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News