Alabama Community College System hosts graduation for inaugural Customer Service Training Program

Joey Blackwell

The Alabama Community College System hosted a graduation of the inaugural class of its Customer Service Professional Training Program last Thursday. Ten graduates completed the eight-week program, which was taught at Jefferson State.

“The program is amazing, and just the feedback from the candidates that I’ve received already makes me aware that this is a very beneficial program to anyone who has that passion for customer service,” said Angelia Hale, who works as the instructor. “I would recommend it to all businesses that want to enhance their hiring of customer service professionals.”

RELATED: Alabama’s community colleges contribute $8.1 billion to state’s economy

The program is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to excel in customer service roles. The classes are held in the evening, making it easier for those with busy schedules to attend. Curriculum covers a wide variety of skills, including call center and in-person customer service fundamentals, expectations, and work environment, business etiquette, communications, CRM (Customer Relationship Management Software), and product promotion and sales.

Partner companies consist of Alabama PowerBlueCross BlueShield of AlabamaSpireProtective Life InsuranceALFA InsuranceASK TelemarketingGuardian Credit Union, and Regions Bank.

“We are incredibly proud of our graduates and the strong partnerships that made this program possible,” said Leah Bigbee, Jefferson State’s Dean of Workforce. “By collaborating with industry leaders, we’ve built a curriculum that directly addresses workforce needs and prepares students for real-world success. This graduating class is a testament to what can happen when education and industry work hand-in-hand.”

On May 28, the program interviewed with partner companies. Hale hopes to see all 10 graduates walk away with great careers at great companies.

The future of the program is bright, with the next class slated to be hosted at Trenholm State. While the official start date of the class isn’t set in stone, Hale said late summer/early fall is the anticipated timeframe for the next program. Lawson State is also expected to host classes later this year.

“I had a great group, and they asked many questions, and I received texts after hours regarding class work, and I was always there for them,” Hale said. “We couldn’t have had a better class.”

If you or someone you know is interested in taking part in the program, prospective applicants can submit interest forms by using the following links for either Lawson State Community College,  Trenholm State Community College or Jefferson State Community College.

Courtesy of Alabama News Center