A workforce training partnership between Gadsden State Community College and the Anniston Munitions Center is expanding opportunities for Alabama workers while earning recognition for those helping lead the effort.
Through Gadsden State’s Skills for Success Innovation Program, employees connected to the Anniston Munitions Center, which operates as a tenant organization at Anniston Army Depot, have completed Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A training and Hazardous Materials Entry-Level Driver Training at no cost to either workers or their employer.
The initiative is designed to help employees gain essential certifications required for transporting sensitive materials while addressing workforce needs across Alabama’s logistics and defense sectors.
In recognition of the program’s success, the Anniston Munitions Center presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Darrell Horton, honoring his leadership and contributions to the CDL initiative. Horton’s efforts directly enabled five Anniston Munitions Center employees to obtain their CDL licenses, strengthening the organization’s operational capacity. The center also previously recognized Gadsden State’s Shayondra Griffin for her administrative support of the effort.
Gadsden State officials said the program removes cost barriers that might otherwise prevent workers from advancing their careers.
“This partnership is a strong example of how Gadsden State is helping employers meet workforce needs while removing financial barriers for employees,” said Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College. “By offering no-cost CDL and HAZMAT training, we are supporting career advancement for workers and strengthening the regional workforce.”
The partnership is supported by the Alabama Community College System Innovation Center, which works with employers and community colleges statewide to deliver industry-recognized training aligned with workforce demand.
Anniston Munitions Center leadership emphasized the program’s direct impact on mission readiness.
“Our partnership with Gadsden State Community College is a critical force multiplier for our mission. This program provides our valued employees with essential, no-cost training to further their careers, which in turn directly enhances our operational readiness and safety,” said Lt. Col. Steve Wallace, commander of the Anniston Munitions Center. “By equipping our team with the necessary CDL and HAZMAT certifications, Gadsden State is making a direct and meaningful investment in the Anniston Munitions Center and the security of our nation’s warfighters.”
Interest in the program has grown through referrals, with additional Anniston Munitions Center employees enrolling in upcoming training classes.
Following federal Department of Transportation changes implemented in 2022 requiring expanded Entry-Level Driver Training, CDL certification costs have increased nationwide. Gadsden State’s program helps offset those costs while providing hands-on instruction and safety training designed to prepare participants for immediate entry into transportation and logistics roles.
College officials said initiatives like this support Alabama’s broader workforce development goals by expanding access to high-demand training and strengthening the state’s industrial and defense workforce pipeline.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
