The Women’s Foundation of Alabama announced it has scheduled two prominent speakers for its upcoming annual research showcase. This year’s will be “Clearing the Path: The Business Case for Child Care.”

The featured speakers for the event, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Suzanne P. Clark, and Alabama Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth will address a variety of topics, with a particular focus on childcare.

During her remarks, Clark will share her perspective on creating and maintaining a successful national economy, while Ainsworth will give insight on Alabama’s current workforce needs and potential solutions  for solving the issue of the state’s low labor force participation. The Lt. Governor believes that the problem can be partially solved by investing in quality, affordable, and accessible child care.

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“Child care is an essential resource for Alabama’s workforce. As Alabama succeeds in industry recruitment and job creation, the lack of affordable, accessible, and quality child care will continue to be a glaring and, substantial barrier to work, impacting the economic progress across our entire state,” said Lillian Brand, Women’s Foundation of Alabama Vice President, External Affairs.

“Backed by data-driven solutions, the foundation is proud to partner with elected officials, businesses, and civic leaders in this watershed moment and pivotal opportunity to break down the barriers impacting over 85,000 Alabama families.”

“Together, we can create game-changing public policy that opens the door for all Alabamians to earn and fill quality jobs.”

The event will take place on January 25 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Harbert Center in Birmingham.

This year’s event is presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.