Automotive manufacturing is one of Alabama’s most important industries, and inspiring Alabama students for careers in the field is an ongoing mission.

Last week, more than 1,500 students from across the state got a glimpse into automotive career opportunities and other engineering- and manufacturing-related fields during “Field Trip Friday” at the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama at Barber Motorsports Park.

At the center of the day’s events was the “Gear Up Your Career” tent in the race Fan Zone, where a dozen companies, career and college organizations, including Alabama Power, set up shop to provide students with information about quality jobs in automotive, manufacturing and other skilled industries. The tent was open to fans throughout race weekend.

ZOOM Motorsports is the promoter of the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama and other spectator events at Birmingham’s Barber Motorsports Park. ZOOM President George Dennis said the goal of the event was to educate students and racing fans about career opportunities in manufacturing.

“We started ‘Gear Up Your Career’ six years ago with a partnership with Honda’s Alabama auto plant and AIDT,” he said. “Our goal is to showcase the careers that are available in the modern-day auto manufacturing industry in Alabama now and in the future. Students from all over Alabama can tour the area, talk to executives in the industry and participate in hands-on activities, all while watching the living technology on the track.”

Alabama Power is engaged in multiple workforce development initiatives around the state, including programs supported by the community college system and ongoing efforts to broaden diversity and opportunities in fields such as engineering and the utility industry. Learn more here.

(Courtesy of Alabama NewsCenter)