A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Monday for a state-of-the-art regional workforce development facility in Oxford.

The Choccolocco Research, Education, Arts, and Technology Experience (CREATE) center allows Oxford High School students and adults the chance to prepare for high-paying, in-demand job opportunities in a variety of fields including engineering, modern manufacturing, computer science, and green power.

Having just opened in August, the CREATE center already has close to 300 Oxford High School students enrolled as well as approximately 100 adults.

Multiple elected officials were on hand at the ceremony to mark the occasion. Governor Kay Ivey spoke about what the center will achieve going forward.

“CREATE is not just about putting people in jobs; it’s about building brighter futures for our families and the whole state of Alabama,” said Ivey. “This is a program that will lift up all generations and transform Alabama’s future, one skilled worker at a time.”

Today, I cut the ribbon on CREATE, a regional workforce development center.

Here, Alabamians will learn trades that fit the workforce demands of the 21st century.

I even got to spend time with CREATE students who showed me what they’re working on — impressive! #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/ZaZWxWPZLw

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) November 18, 2024

U.S. Congressman Mike Rogers commented on the collaboration between the City of Oxford, Oxford City Schools, and economic leaders in the area.

“CREATE is a shining example of how teamwork can transform lives and strengthen our communities,” said Rogers. “I know this is going to be a tremendous success for the community. I just urge everybody to recognize this is the way to do it. And after this program, let’s use the same kind of secret sauce for the next program.”

Dr. Shannon Stanley, Superintendent of Oxford City Schools, shared the long-term goal for the school system.

“Our vision is for continued growth and success for our region and all of the school systems in it,” she said.

Melissa Battles represented Senator Katie Britt at the ceremony.

“CREATE is a transformative investment that aligns with Senator Britt’s commitment to expanding opportunities,” said Battles.

According to Business Alabama, there are plans for the center to begin accepting additional students from Calhoun, Cleburne, Clay, Talladega, and St. Clair counties. The center will soon allow students to train in cybersecurity, mechanical and electrical industrial maintenance, mechatronics, transportation, distribution, logistics, STEM research, innovation and technology development.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten