The Alabama Technology Network (ATN) will officially celebrate its transition to the Alabama Training Network with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for January 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in Montgomery.
The name change reflects the organization’s continued focus on workforce development and industry support, while more clearly aligning its identity with its training-driven mission to strengthen Alabama’s economy.
According to ATN, the organization was formed in 1987 with the launch of five Centers of Excellence designed to address workforce needs tied to economic growth across the state. Throughout the 1990s, the network expanded its footprint, making its services more accessible to employers and workers across the state.
The event will take place at The Alabama Community College System, located at 135 S. Union Street, and will be followed by a reception with light refreshments in the President’s Conference Room.
In 1996, ATN was designated Alabama’s official center for the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). Through this program, ATN works directly with manufacturers to develop new products, improve operational efficiency, adopt advanced technologies, and strengthen supply chains. ATN continues to serve as Alabama’s MEP center and remains among the top-performing programs nationally.
The organization became an entity of the Alabama Community College System in 2004, further integrating its mission with statewide workforce education and economic development efforts. Today, ATN operates across Alabama and serves all 67 counties, providing customized training, technical assistance, and engineering services to support industry needs.
ATN’s staff is organized into specialized subject-matter teams that work directly with manufacturers to improve productivity, increase profitability, and support long-term growth. The network continually updates its training materials and equipment to reflect industry best practices and emerging workforce demands.
In 2008, ATN earned ISO 9001 certification, reinforcing its commitment to quality management and continuous improvement through regular audits and ongoing evaluation of internal processes.
The January ribbon-cutting will formally mark the organization’s transition to the Alabama Training Network as it continues its statewide work supporting workforce training and industry development across Alabama.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
