When conditions are ripe for a power outage in Alabama, odds are that linemen like Jay Johnson will be putting in some hard work.

For the Alabama Power lineman, the call to restore power isn’t just part of the job — it’s a mission. On Wednesday, that commitment was recognized when Johnson was named Lineman of the Year by the Energy Institute of Alabama (EIA) during its Lineman Appreciation Day celebration in Montgomery.

Held at Dixie Electric Cooperative, the annual event brought together lineworkers from across the state to honor those who keep Alabama’s homes, schools and businesses connected — often in the toughest conditions imaginable.

Dixie Electric Cooperative hosted the Energy Institute of Alabama’s Lineworker of the Year celebration. (contributed)

Johnson, who works out of Alabama Power’s Prattville operations area, has built a reputation for answering the call — literally. In 2025, he responded to more than 300 after-hours callouts, over a hundred more than any other lineman in the company, all while completing more than 1,600 work orders.

“Just seeing when you get the people’s lights on, especially at nighttime, you know,” Johnson said of the job. “Most of them are so appreciative … and it makes you feel good, makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something when you’re out there helping people and just seeing people cheering you on when you get their power on and thanking you. You feel like a hero, for a moment anyway.”

Energy Institute of Alabama CEO Clay Scofield, left, presents the Lineman of the Year Award to Alabama Power’s Jay Johnson. (Michael Tomberlin / Alabama News Center)

EIA President and CEO Clay Scofield said Johnson and his fellow linemen are heroes and worthy of more than a day of appreciation.

“People take it for granted that they just go flip the switch on and the light comes on, or that their AC or heat is working, or that they turn on their stove and make a meal. People take that for granted. They really do,” Scofield said. “And there’s a tremendous amount of work and effort every single minute of the day that goes into keeping that electricity flowing to our homes, businesses and churches. I think it’s incumbent upon the public to have an appreciation and understanding of what it takes to get electricity out there, because if we didn’t have people like this, we wouldn’t have the comforts that we enjoy. So, I hope that the public will thank a lineman when they see them.”

State Sen. April Weaver, whose grandfather was also a lineman, shared her appreciation for the profession and the sacrifice it requires. She was instrumental in passing legislation recognizing Lineman Appreciation Day in Alabama and in the creation of a state car tag for linewokers that raises money for those injured on the job and for their families.

“This is absolutely one of my favorite days of the year, because we get to come here and celebrate our linemen who mean so much to our communities,” she said. “And these men and women go above and beyond. They sacrifice so much time away from their families, time away from the things that they love, all to take care of us. So today, we’re giving back, and they are so deserving of our appreciation.”

National Lineman Appreciation Day is observed each year on April 18 to honor those who maintain and protect the nation’s electric grid. For Alabama Power, it’s a moment to recognize employees like Johnson who embody the company’s mission of reliability and service.

“I’m proud of our linemen who, like Jay, show up every day to take care of our customers,” said Scott Moore, senior vice president of Power Delivery for Alabama Power. “No matter the hour or the conditions, they work hard to keep our communities connected, and that dedication makes a real difference.”

Weaver noted that linemen are an extension of the companies they work for, and all work with a shared goal of producing energy that matters to those receiving it.

“It’s important that we continue to support our linemen and our power companies, because they play such a vital role in not only economic development, but everything we do as a state, and certainly our linemen go above and beyond every day, and we’re just thankful for them and all the work that they do,” Weaver said.

Johnson said he was a bit stunned to get outside recognition for the hard work he is willing to do at Alabama Power.

“There I was, like, ‘Did they just really call my name?’ I was, was not expecting it,” he said. “I do appreciate it, though.”

1969 was a remarkable year. Apollo 11 made history with its first flight to the moon, making Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin worldwide heroes. Boeing 747 took its first flight. A postage stamp cost 5 cents, a gallon of gas was 35 cents, and Richard M. Nixon was president.

That year, Michael was the most popular boy’s name – fittingly, as Mike Goldman began his long career with Alabama Power. Working at the power company was an easy choice for Goldman, who enjoys being outdoors. Goldman found his calling as a local operations lineman (LOL) and worked safely for 57 years before he recently retired.

Goldman’s career covered a wide range of jobs. He started March 4, 1969, as a laborer at North Birmingham Stores, where materials were shipped to sites across the division. After a few months, he joined a tree-trimming crew, gaining skills that helped him advance to an apprentice lineman job on a Transmission crew.

Goldman later served as an apprentice on a Gardendale line crew before transferring to downtown Montgomery. A friend who was hired for a lineman job in Southern Division encouraged him to move there, saying, “Come down here, things are really hopping.” Goldman did and became a lineman in Livingston, where he worked for seven years. He also worked in Montgomery, Demopolis and Selma, eventually becoming a lead lineman. Goldman later served as a crew foreman for about a year in Selma and Winfield but returned to Montgomery for crew work.

“I figured I liked doing the work better than telling people what to do,” said Goldman, who was still climbing power poles at 78 years old. He moved to an LOL position in Greenville and settled in Wetumpka, where he worked the last 25 years of his successful career.

Most of his calls involved troubleshooting. Goldman’s pride came from doing the job safely and correctly. On a recent day, he completed 14 work orders, doing everything from repairing security lights to replacing meters and connecting service for new customers. While serving the Wetumpka area and beyond, Goldman was on call every third week – at all hours, day and night.

“If a storm or something major happens, we all get called out to come help,” Goldman said. “Power outages occur because of dead trees that fall on lines and customers have loose connections that must be checked – there is something all the time.”

He received call-outs to restore power after outages caused by Mother Nature, either trees or animals.

“Electricity is such a necessity these days,” Goldman said. “You do your work safely, but if you can get the lights on, you do it – you don’t wait for somebody else. Do what you were taught to do – do your job.”

Future focus

Easing into retirement, Goldman is in excellent health after years of on-the-job exercise, including climbing in and out of the bucket truck. Now that he’s put away his demanding work, Goldman is spending more time with his wife, Jackie, to whom he’s been married 55 years, as well as his three children, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

“Jackie is an angel,” he said. “She goes out of the way for me like I always went out of the way for work – I was well-blessed and always had a good meal when I went out for call-outs.”

Goldman said that one constant remains in his life.

“I always ask God for His protection,” Goldman said. “I’ve got a litany of prayers I say every morning and every night for my family, for my friends, for the sick and for the people at Alabama Power, that we are protected and our families are protected while we’re at work.”

Tyrone TJ Morris and Andy Gore work for Alabama Power at the same crew headquarters in Montgomery.

But this year that partnership went from the bucket truck to the baseball field when the two started assistant coaching the same youth league baseball team in Clanton.

Morris says this is the first year of many to come.

The coaching partnership was born out of a desire to “step in to help, and by understanding that being around the youth was bigger than our ego,” he said. “We do a great job of naturally splitting up the work, headed by Coach Trent Gray.”

Saturday is National Lineman Appreciation Day, and Gore and Morris are prime examples of why line workers everywhere are worthy of celebrating for much more than keeping the lights on. These two men share a built-in chemistry that carries over from the workplace to the sandlot.

“Proverbs 22:6 says, ‘Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it,’” Gore said. “That verse really reflects how I view volunteering in the community.”

Morris agreed.

“It’s mixing work life and humor with something you both care about outside of work,” he said. “There’s already a level of trust and communication. You know each other’s personalities and strengths, which helps with running practices and games smoother.”

That coordination was more than apparent on a recent Tuesday afternoon when their Hot Rods 6-and-under team took the field at Clanton City Park. Their warm-up routine started with stretches, then sprints, followed by prayer and a team countdown.

“One. Two. Three. Hot Rods!”

On offense, Gore coaches third base while Morris makes sure the batters know their place in the lineup. On defense, Gore assists with the fielders, while Morris works behind the plate with the catcher. Additional coaches help with other duties, all under the direction of the head coach.

“At the 6U level, the kids require a lot of instruction,” Gore said, “so it keeps us actively involved and working together to keep them focused and learning.”

Morris, who’s originally from Childersburg and now lives in Clanton, has been a lineman with Alabama Power for seven years.

“The best part is knowing you’re helping people, especially during storms or outages,” he said. “When you restore power, you’re bringing people back to normal life.”

Gore, who has been a lineman and currently works on the substation side, said he’s thankful for a job that allows him to take care of his family and still be home with them every night.

“I also take a lot of pride in the safety side of the work,” he said. “It’s important to me to be part of a team that looks out for each other and makes sure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.”

The hardest part of being a lineman is the long hours and the occasions when they have to be away from family. Morris said he’s had to travel as far as Vidor, Texas, to assist with power restoration.

“It takes a lot of mental and physical toughness,” he said.

“One of the most challenging parts of the job is the physical demand, especially as you get older,” Gore said. “It requires you to take care of yourself and stay sharp. You also have to be able to adapt to new ways of doing things and adjust as the job continues to evolve.”

Alabama Power encourages all of its employees to volunteer and be involved in the community. Gore and Morris were on the same page about what makes volunteer coaching so rewarding.

“Watching the kids grow — not just as players, but as people. Seeing their confidence build and them having fun is the best part,” Morris said. “I like coaching the younger kids because you get to be the foundation of their sports experience. You get the opportunity to make them fall in love with the game.”

Gore graduated from Chilton County High School in Clanton in 2002 and spent some time playing college baseball as a pitcher. After that, he worked a few different jobs before going to work at Alabama Power in 2008.

He started coaching youth baseball in 2019 when his son started playing T ball. “Since then, I’ve coached league ball teams from T ball up through 10U, as well as travel teams up to 12U,” he said. “I’ve also spent time working with older kids as a pitching instructor.”

He started coaching youth football in 2021, “so staying involved with youth sports has become a big part of my life.” (Morris plans to join Gore on the gridiron starting this fall.)

Gore said he enjoys teaching the fundamentals and helping kids learn how to play the game the right way, especially proper mechanics.

“I also take a lot of pride in working with pitchers and helping them understand how to think through the game, not just throw,” he said. “More than anything, I try to instill values like discipline, respect and faith. While football is the sport I enjoy coaching the most, I carry that same approach into both sports.”

Gore and Morris say their faith is foundational to everything they do as men … in their homes, on the job and in the community.

“As a Christian, I feel a responsibility to pour back into the community and help instill what truly matters, not just in sports, but in life. That includes their character and spiritual foundation,” Gore said. “Coaching at the youth level isn’t easy, but the focus is always on helping these kids grow in every area of their lives, and that’s what keeps me committed to it.”

Gore and his wife, Hannah, have been married for 15 years. They have two sons, River, 11, and Evin, 6. They also have a 2-year-old silver labrador named Maizy.

“I’m just thankful for the opportunity to do what I do, both in my career and in the community,” he said. “Being able to support my family and pour into these kids is something I don’t take lightly. At the end of the day, it’s about showing up and making a positive impact where you can.”

Morris said he wants to be remembered as a good husband, father, and someone who showed up for others and did things the right way.

“I think the highest and most important achievement I’ve seen is improvement through effort while keeping God first. I’ll coach for as long as I can and as long as I’m making a positive impact,” he said. “I believe if you’re able to give back, you should. These kids are the future. It comes from how I was raised – people poured into me, so I feel it’s my responsibility to do the same for others.”

Morris and his wife, Delilah, have seven children: Aiyana, 14; Zaiden, 12; Ah’nylah, 10; Aziah, 10; Zakari, 8; Tyriq, 6; and Zoey, 4.

“I’m grateful — for my family, the opportunity to coach, and the chance to make an impact in my community,” he said. “And to the parents who trust in me to coach their children … thank you.”

Coaches gather for prayer with their Hot Rods 6U baseball team before a recent game. (Anthony Cook/Alabama News Center)

The Alabama Energy Infrastructure Training Center’s HVAC Fast Track Program has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for excellence in Heat Pump Installation and Heat Pump Comfort Advising — a distinction that runs through February 2029.

The Training Center is a public-private workforce development partnership between the Alabama Legislature, the Alabama Community College System, Alabama Power and other industry partners.

“The Energy Infrastructure Training Center is a perfect example of what’s possible when education, industry and community come together with a shared purpose,” said Dr. Joel Hagood, president of Bevill State Community College. “This Department of Energy recognition affirms that our students are receiving training that meets the highest national standards and that Bevill State is playing a meaningful role in building the skilled workforce Alabama’s energy industry depends on.”

The Energy Infrastructure Training Center in Jasper is home to the HVAC Fast Track Program recognized for excellence in Heat Pump Installation and Heat Pump Comfort Advising by the U.S. Department of Energy. (Alabama News Center file)

Located in Jasper and operated in partnership with Bevill State Community College, the Training Center provides hands-on instruction with the latest HVAC systems and tools, helping students build real-world skills that serve customers and strengthen Alabama’s workforce.

The recognition highlights the Training Center’s commitment to preparing technicians for the next generation of energy-efficient technologies and aligns its curriculum with the DOE’s clean energy transition goals. It also positions program graduates for meaningful, in-demand jobs as the HVAC industry evolves toward sustainability and innovation.

“At Alabama Power, we believe our role goes far beyond providing electricity it’s about investing in people and the communities we serve,” said Stevie Searcy, Director of Workforce Development & Training at Alabama Power. “The DOE’s recognition of the HVAC Fast Track Program shows what can happen when we invest in local talent and strong partnerships. Together, we’re preparing a workforce ready to support the infrastructure that keeps Alabama moving forward.”

The DOE recognition also means graduates and the companies that employ them will stand out in online searches as trusted experts in energy-efficient home upgrades. Through DOE’s collaboration with Google and other contractor listing sites, businesses with employees who hold this credential will display the Energy Skilled design mark in their search results, signaling to consumers that they meet national standards for quality and efficiency. This recognition enhances the program’s credibility, helps contractors attract homeowners seeking qualified professionals and connects the training directly to federal incentives for heat pump installations and other energy-saving improvements.

Beyond the Fast Track Program, the Training Center offers a wide range of courses and certifications for professionals at every stage of their careers — from introductory HVAC fundamentals to advanced topics in heat pump technology, geothermal systems, duct fabrication and high-efficiency water heating. Supported by dozens of manufacturers and distributors, the facility’s 53,000-square-foot space includes state-of-the-art labs and classrooms designed to keep Alabama’s technicians at the forefront of industry innovation.

A global automotive components manufacturer will establish a new production facility in Opelika, bringing 75 jobs and more than $9 million in capital investment to east Alabama’s growing advanced manufacturing sector.

GMB USA Alabama Inc. will produce precision automotive components for hybrid electric vehicles at its new operation in the Orr Industrial Park, further positioning the region as a hub for next-generation automotive technology.

The company’s decision to locate in Alabama reflects confidence in the state’s automotive manufacturing ecosystem and skilled workforce.

“GMB USA Alabama Inc. strengthens Alabama’s position as a leader in automotive manufacturing,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “We’re pleased to welcome GMB to Opelika and appreciate their confidence in Alabama’s skilled workforce and business climate.”

The facility will manufacture components critical to hybrid electric vehicle performance, including active purge pumps, electric water pumps, electric oil pumps, integrated thermal management systems and mechanical water pumps. These precision-engineered parts enhance vehicle efficiency, reduce energy loss and contribute to lower emissions.

“GMB’s decision to locate in Opelika is another strong endorsement of our community, our workforce and our commitment to supporting industry,” said Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith. “This $9 million investment and the creation of 75 new jobs will provide new opportunities for our residents and further strengthen Opelika’s position as a key manufacturing hub in Alabama.”

GMB brings decades of international experience manufacturing automotive components for major global automakers. The company’s expertise in advanced automotive systems aligns with the industry’s transition toward electrified powertrains.

Byoung Young Song, president of GMB Korea Corporation, emphasized the company’s commitment to the local community and advanced manufacturing. “Leveraging our long-standing expertise and quality competitiveness in the automotive parts industry, GMB aims to create stable jobs and revitalize the local economy in Opelika,” Song said.

The new facility will help meet increasing demand from automotive manufacturers across North America for hybrid electric vehicle components, supporting the region’s expanding automotive supply chain.

“The company’s investment in Orr Industrial Park demonstrates the continued demand for Opelika as a location for advanced manufacturing and highlights the strength of our workforce and infrastructure,” said John Sweatman, director of Opelika Economic Development.

The project aligns with Alabama’s long-term economic development strategy to attract innovative manufacturers, strengthen the automotive sector and create sustainable, high-skilled job opportunities across the state.

This story originally appeared on the Made in Alabama website.

Mercedes-Benz plans to invest $4 billion at its Tuscaloosa County plant by 2030, as the German automaker continues to build on a legacy that launched Alabama’s dynamic automotive industry.

Company officials announced the move Tuesday at a ceremony where they also unveiled the latest versions of the GLE and GLS SUVs and marked a production milestone of 5 million vehicles at the facility in Vance.

Mercedes selected Alabama for its first U.S. plant in 1993, then in 1997 debuted the pioneering M-Class SUV that put the state’s auto workers in the international spotlight.

Today, the operation known as Mercedes-Benz U.S. International employs about 5,800 people and represents an investment of more than $7 billion. The plant regularly exports about 60 percent of its annual output, sending Alabama-made luxury vehicles to markets around the world.

In the body shop, the individual sheet metal parts, which were previously manufactured in the press shop, are assembled into a complete body-in-white. (contributed)

Governor Kay Ivey credited the company’s strategic vision and its expert Alabama workforce for the continued investment in the state.

“Thirty years ago, Mercedes-Benz changed the landscape of Alabama, and there is no doubt that Alabamians have changed the landscape of Mercedes-Benz,” the governor said. “We are excited and proud to see that transformational partnership going strong into another decade as our state leads ingenuity and innovation in the global automotive industry.”

Tuesday’s ceremony, punctuated by a performance from the University of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band and an appearance by former Alabama head football coach Nick Saban, celebrated not only the high-quality products and highly-skilled workforce but also the company’s deep roots in a community that has embraced the global automaker.

Ola Kaellenius, Mercedes-Benz CEO and Chairman of the Board of Management, is a former head of MBUSI and also was part of the original team at the Alabama plant in the 1990s.

Kaellenius said he knows firsthand the commitment of the local workforce.

“These vehicles don’t just carry the Mercedes star. They carry the passion, precision and pride of an entire region,” he said. “This state and the spirit of its people have always been an inspiration to us.”

In the body shop, the individual sheet metal parts, which were previously manufactured in the press shop, are assembled into a complete body-in-white. (contributed)

Michael Schiebe, Board of Management member overseeing production, quality and supply chain management, said the care and craftsmanship of the workforce is evident in every vehicle.

“This plant has built something remarkable, not just cars but a legacy,” he said.

Schiebe said the new $4 billion investment signals the company’s strong commitment to the Alabama plant.

“We believe in Tuscaloosa. We are staying, we are growing, we are committed,” he said.

Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said Mercedes’ continued investment in the state the sends a clear message about Alabama’s leading role in the global auto industry.

“Mercedes-Benz is a true Alabama success story that is an example for companies across our state and those who have yet to call us home,” McNair said. “With each expansion and each new model, this elite auto plant, its workforce and the surrounding supportive community have risen to the challenge and far surpassed expectations. We are eager to see the future unfold at MBUSI, powered by yet another significant capital investment in our state.”

Tuesday’s ceremony also drew other Mercedes-Benz board members, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Alabama’s U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville and state and local officials.

Mercedes’ selection of Tuscaloosa County as the site of its first U.S. factory was a strategic move for the company that set the foundation for Alabama’s automotive industry.

In the years since, automakers Honda, Hyundai and Mazda-Toyota have built their own vehicle assembly plants in Alabama, adding to a sprawling network of suppliers and support services. Combined, the state’s automotive assembly lines now build more than 1 million vehicles per year, putting Alabama among the top states for U.S. auto production.

Mercedes’ current production lineup in Alabama includes the GLE, GLS and GLE Coupe SUVS, along with AMG performance variants and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS. The plant also produces the all-electric EQE SUV, EQS SUV and Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV.

In addition, the GLC SUV is headed to the Tuscaloosa County assembly lines in the next few years.

Mercedes’ $4 billion investment in Alabama is part of a total U.S. investment of more than $7 billion. Along with the Alabama plant, the automaker’s U.S. presence includes a van assembly operation in South Carolina, a U.S. headquarters and research and development hub in Atlanta and a network of dealers across the country.

This story originally appeared on the Made in Alabama website.

A precision metal casting and manufacturing company will expand its Alabama operations in a $6.24 million project that will create 50 jobs and add new equipment and technology across Calhoun and Talladega counties.

Associated MetalCast plans upgrades at two facilities in Oxford, as well as the skilled manufacturing positions that will be added over the next six years. Average annual wages of the new jobs are expected to top $49,000 annually.

Founded in 1998, Associated MetalCast serves customers in industries including waterworks, automotive, heavy truck and industrial equipment. The company provides ferrous and non-ferrous cast components along with machining, finishing and assembly services.

Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said the expansion reflects the state’s world-class manufacturing workforce and its competitive business climate.

“Associated MetalCast is exactly the kind of company Alabama wants to grow — innovative, technically advanced and deeply committed to quality,” McNair said. “This expansion is a testament to the strength of our manufacturing workforce and the competitive business environment we’ve built in this state. We’re proud to support the growth of a company that has earned its reputation through precision, performance and results.”

The project has drawn widespread local support including the city of Oxford, Calhoun County, Talladega County and the Calhoun County Economic Development Council. In addition, AIDT will provide its worker training services, a key benefit as the company scales its capacity to meet growing customer demand.

Associated MetalCast’s business model centers on innovation and value-added service, offering customers not only precision-manufactured components but also integrated supply-chain support, inventory management and assembly services that help streamline production and control costs. The company operates from a modern manufacturing and warehouse facility with an emphasis on quality, efficiency and tight tolerances.

McNair said the investment by Associated MetalCast signals strong confidence in Alabama’s workforce and the communities that support advanced manufacturing.

“When a company with this track record chooses to deepen its roots in Alabama, it sends a clear message: our workforce is world-class, and our communities are ready for growth. We look forward to watching Associated MetalCast and the people of Oxford build something exceptional together.”

This story originally appeared on the Made in Alabama website.

For nearly two decades, members of the Alabama Power Service Organization (APSO) have helped bring the joy of reading to classrooms across the state through their participation in Read Across America.

The annual initiative, which coincides with Dr. Seuss’s March 2 birthday and often extends into April, reaches kindergarten through fourth-grade students and encourages a lifelong love of reading.

Members of the APSO E.C. Gaston Chapter got into character by dressing as the Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2 while reading at several schools.

“It’s a lot of fun and the kids love it,” said Gaston Power Generation Analyst Jessica Kennedy. “One of the kids was captivated by ‘The Cat in the Hat’ character, following them around in awe. Moments like these remind us why our efforts matter.”

Plant Billingsley and Plant Central Alabama were among APSO E.C. Gaston readers, including Valencia Boyd, Amy Calloway, Jeff Fleming, Tarance Gardner, Tabetha Lemonds, Jason Mandrell, Jeff McCord, Zach Oliver, Danielle Tomlin, Jocelyn Vigneulle, Jodi Webb, Melissa Williamson and Kennedy.

Volunteers from the APSO Plant Miller Chapter read to students at Cordova, Sumiton, Valley and West Jefferson Elementary schools. Chapter President Dion Oliver said members enjoy children’s responses during storytelling.

“It’s so much fun seeing the reaction we get from students,” said Oliver, a condition-based maintenance specialist and a community youth coach for baseball, basketball and football. APSO Plant Miller readers included Renell Barger, Terri Black, Savannah Blackburn, Rachel Edgil, Chris Goodman, Blayke Handley, Tara Harris, Natasha Kilpatrick, Andrew Lawhorn, Mickey Mooney, Wendy Robertson, Candi Robinson, Mary Pat Turner, Michele Willoughby and Oliver.

Jennifer Adkinson from the APSO Southeast-Farley Chapter read at Webb Elementary School with her daughter Faith Alligood. An APSO youth volunteer, Alligood also read at Rehobeth Elementary and Primary schools in Dothan. Brittany Killingsworth read at Headland Elementary and Lakeisha Russaw read at Phenix City Elementary.

Adkinson, 2026 APSO Southeast-Farley Chapter president, said Read Across America is essential for children. She pointed to research that shows reading to a child 20 minutes a day exposes students to 1.8 million words per year.

“In schools and libraries across the U.S., Read Across America is huge – it’s a nationwide event,” Adkinson said. “I think it’s important to be a part of that growth and that love for reading. We always make that an important factor in our organization.”

Stevi Gandy, community development specialist in Tuscaloosa, said APSO Western Division members read at several schools: Leah Banks at York West End Jr. High; Karen Burklew at Huntington Elementary; Wendy Dobbs at Maddox Intermediate; Elanie Fetzer at Westside Elementary; Brody Gurganus at Oakman Elementary and Jenna Madison at Huntington Elementary. Gandy read at Moundville Elementary.

APSO Mobile Division Chapter members Erin Delaporte, Brittany Dinc, Ryan Howard, Adrienne Johnson, Sonja North, Jeff Schmitz and Erica Wells read at several schools. Dinc and North were at J.U. Blacksher Elementary School in Uriah on March 3, where they thrilled kindergarteners by gifting each youngster a copy of “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish,” Goldfish crackers and a Dr. Seuss ring.

Customer Accounting Specialist Dinc, who has helped with the APSO Mobile Division Chapter’s program for two years, said, “I’m thankful Alabama Power allows us to volunteer.”

APSO Southern Division Chapter’s Mackenzie Calhoun, Zanetta Irby and Anthony Sellers read to pre-K students at Blount County Elementary and Michelle McCary read to students at Kidz Klubhouse of Selma.

According to APSO Eastern Division Chapter President Stephanie Mitchell, more than 40 chapter members read at several elementary schools: Heriberto Brito, Carl Hill, Elizabeth Green, Tyler James, Kristina Love, Danita Mascarenas, Colin Robertson, Tammy Williams and Arnita Woodall at Ashville, Pell City and Steele; Lisa Colley, Cody Edmondson, Adam Hanvey, Leah Holloway, Tarrica K. Jones, Candace Simpson, Brandi Sullivan, Coy Thomas, Breanna Walker, Kirby Welsh and Crystal White at Clay County/Roanoke; Michael Barber, Helen, Sean and Trent Dean, Will Freeman and Jerry Treadwell at Cleburne County; Allye Buttram, Jessica Cech, Tchkandice Cunningham, Steve Marlowe, Khalil Pope and Blake Teal at Oak Grove; Dana McFarland and Patricia Tripplett at Ohatchee; Keisha, Vanasia and Vonquel Chapman, Roger Lynch and Kiyunda Smoot at Talladega; and Mitchell and LaToya Zackery at Weaver.

APSO efforts will continue into April with Magic City Chapter members reading to children at the Harris Early Learning Center in Birmingham to celebrate the Week of the Young Child.

A $21 million manufacturing expansion is bringing more than 100 new jobs to Fort Payne as Phos Window significantly scales its vinyl window production operation in DeKalb County.

The Fort Payne City Council approved incentives to support the project, which will more than triple the size of the company’s facility near the I-59 corridor. Once complete, the operation will span nearly 140,000 square feet and employ between 150 and 200 workers — a substantial workforce investment that reflects confidence in the region’s manufacturing capabilities.

Company leaders cited DeKalb County’s skilled labor pool and strategic tri-state location as decisive factors in choosing to expand locally rather than relocate production capacity.

“This investment reinforces DeKalb County as the proven place for business,” said Brett Johnson, executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority. “Companies like Phos Window continue to choose this region for our tri-state location, skilled workforce, and transportation advantages.”

The expansion strengthens Northeast Alabama’s emerging construction manufacturing cluster. The region already houses producers of structural steel, manufactured block and corrugated pipe. The addition of vinyl window production further diversifies the industrial base and creates opportunities for workforce specialization in building products manufacturing.

“Phos Window’s decision to expand in Fort Payne demonstrates the competitive advantages Alabama’s manufacturing workforce brings to the table,” said Alabama Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair. “Our workers possess the technical expertise and adaptability that modern manufacturers require. This project reflects both the innovative capacity of Alabama’s construction products sector and the skilled workforce that makes these advanced manufacturing operations possible.”

“We appreciate Phos Window’s continued confidence and look forward to supporting their long-term growth,” said Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine.

Construction is expected to begin soon, with hiring to follow in phases as production capacity comes online.

The project positions Fort Payne to capture a larger share of the regional building products market while providing career opportunities for skilled manufacturing workers across Northeast Alabama.

This story originally appeared on the Made in Alabama website.