Drake State Community and Technical College is launching a pilot Skills for Success – Flooring Installation Technician course. This program, the first of its kind in the region, is offered at no cost to participants. The curriculum is designed to prepare course graduates for successful careers in flooring installation.

The course is divided into two parts: an online component and hands-on labs at Drake State, taught by experienced flooring professionals. Participants will earn a recognized credential and gain connections with local and regional employers to meet the rising demand for skilled flooring technicians.

“We are thrilled to offer this program as part of our commitment to workforce development,” said Dr. Patricia Sims, President of Drake State. “This initiative not only equips participants with the technical skills they need for a successful career but also connects them directly with employers who are eager to hire skilled technicians.”

Applications are open and will close on Sept. 5. Participants will be selected on Sept. 6, with the online coursework beginning shortly after. The hands-on portion starts on Sept. 19, and the program concludes on Oct. 11, equipping graduates with the tools necessary to start working in the industry immediately.

“This initiative is a significant step toward bringing awareness to the vast opportunities within the flooring industry,” said Floor Covering Education Foundation Director of Operations Kaye Whitener. “By recruiting new talent and aiding in the funding of students’ education, we are investing in their futures and the future of our industry. This program will facilitate job placement opportunities for these individuals, ensuring they have the skills and connections necessary to embark on successful careers in flooring installation.”

Once the pilot Flooring Installation Technician course is complete, it will be available statewide through any of the 24 colleges in the Alabama Community College System.

The funding provided by the Alabama State Legislature enables the ACCS Innovation Center to offer scholarships and equip Alabamians with the skills needed for success. “The flooring installation course

exemplifies how we bridge the skills gap by uniting community colleges, businesses, and partners,” said ACCS Innovation Center Executive Director Julie Frizzell. “Skills for Success courses like this, built by Alabamians for Alabamians, prepare our workforce for in-demand careers and secure a brighter future for our state.”

Drake State is partnering with the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center, the Floor Covering Education Foundation, and the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration to offer this program.

For more information or fill out the interest form, visit TrainForAlabama.com

For questions, contact Drake State Director of Workforce Development, Ira Jones, at ira.jones@drakestate.edu or (256) 551-5227.