Rising Tide - Q4 2022

A WORD FROM OUR LEADERSHIP

January 4, 2023

Dear Fellow Chamber Members –

While 2020 and 2021 felt like they moved at the speed of cold molasses, 2022 felt like it flew by, because it has been a year of action. The decision was made at the beginning of this year within the Chamber leadership to take what we’ve learned and create purposeful and intentional action to make the West Alabama community a better place to live, work, and play.

The benchmarking trips to other communities that we have taken culminated in some self-reflection at the Next Level Summit in Birmingham. In those three days, some very difficult but necessary conversations were had, with clear goals of action from public safety to public education to infrastructure to workforce enhancement. The West Alabama community has answered that call to action, and groups have continued to convene to address these issues head on, including the reformed Downtown Merchants Association and the Education Policy Council. Strides in public safety conversations have been made with a clearer understanding of the bonding process, the juvenile court system, and the funding challenges with law enforcement at every level. While these conversations are still in their early stages, I am confident that they will continue, and West Alabama will be better for it.

It has been my distinct honor to serve as your Board Chairman for the last year. My goal has been to allow the smallest of small business to have a voice at the table with global powerhouses, and I believe that good has come from that. Strides continue to be made in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the Diverse Business Council has continued its work to make sure everyone feels welcome at the table. Young Tuscaloosa continues to grow and help give young professionals a network that can build friendships and business relationships for years to come. The Chamber itself has continued to do what it does best, and that is to convene… the hard conversations have to continue to happen, and the Chamber both demands and facilitates those conversations. I look forward to Michele Coley’s leadership as Chairperson of the Board, and I am proud to see my friend serve as the first African American Female Chair. There is no person more capable or deserving than Michele, and I am anxious to serve under her leadership as immediate past Chair

I cannot let the opportunity pass without saying how much both the Chamber and I personally will miss Jim Page as he departs for his new venture in Huntsville. Jim has been a community minded, action demanding leader, and West Alabama is a better place because of his leadership. The accolades and program expansions that the Chamber has done under his leadership are too long to list. What I will miss the most though is Jim’s thoughtful approach to problem solving, and his unmatched ability to be a friend. We wish only success for Jim, Sara, Elly, and Emery.

I extend warm wishes of success for 2023, and I extend the utmost gratitude to all of you for having given me the opportunity to serve.

Sincerely,

TRIPP POWELL 2022 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WEST ALABAMA

Jim Page, CCe , iom President and CeO (205) 391-0562 · jim@westalabamachamber.com

Donny Jones, CCe , iom Chief OPerating OffiCer (205) 391-0552 · donny@westalabamachamber.com

Barkley garrett, CeCD ViCe President, eCOnOmiC deVelOPment (205) 391-0329 · barkley@westalabamachamber.com

nata’sha BlaCk

mOdern manufaCturing PrOjeCt manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0331 · natasha@westalabamachamber.com

CinDi BraDley

PrOjeCt manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 464-4492 cindi@westalabamachamber.com

Brittani ColBurn

seniOr PrOgram manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0334 · brittani@westalabamachamber.com

traCy CrumPton

direCtOr Of finanCe and OPeratiOns (205) 391-0554 · tracy@westalabamachamber.com

aliCia gregory

direCtOr Of membershiP engagement (205) 391-0561 · alicia@westalabamachamber.com

tammi holley WOrkfOrCe COOrdinatOr, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (334) 310-9511 · tammi@westalabamachamber.com

alex house

direCtOr Of COmmuniCatiOns and marketing (205) 391-0563 · alex@westalabamachamber.com

loWanDa James direCtOr Of infOrmatiOn serViCes (205) 758-7588 · lowanda@westalabamachamber.com

tonya mills

eduCatiOn emPlOyment PrOjeCt manager, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment, (205) 391-0566 · tonya@westalabamachamber.com

tiffany Poe

mOdern manufaCturing Center Of exCellenCe PrOjeCt manager (205) 464-4493 · tiffany@westalabamachamber.com

saBrina thomas

regiOnal WOrkfOrCe COunCil liaisOn, WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment

alabama dePartment Of COmmerCe (205) 526-6523 · sthomas@aidt.edu

khaDiJah torBert marketing and COmmuniCatiOns COOrdinatOr WOrkfOrCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0559 · khadijah@westalabamachamber.com

Carolyn tuBBs

direCtOr Of eduCatiOn PrOgrams (205) 391-0556 · carolyn@westalabamachamber.com

marlee Williams

exeCutiVe assistant tO the President and CeO (205) 391-0555 · marlee@westalabamachamber.com

tanya WinsteaD

direCtOr Of membershiP and resOurCe deVelOPment (205) 391-0327 · tanya@westalabamachamber.com

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Anwar Aiken, Alyson Baxter, Elizabeth Beeker, Mary Virginia Best, Mildred Black, Bobby Bragg, Sydney Burns, David ColemanMichele Coley, Brock Corder, Steven Deal, Heather Dill, David DuBose, Russell DuBose, Amy Echols, Matt Fajack, Matt Feller, Carrie Fitts, Chip Fuqua, Lee Garrison, Jheovanny Gomez, Heyward Gould, Jennifer Hart, Joe Hughes, Carl Jamison, Tony Johnson, Katrina Keefer, Tim Lewis, Jordan Morris, Whitney Oswalt, Dave Pass, Tripp Powell, Jasmine Rainey, David Rains, Nikki Ray, Luke Remmert, Llevelyn Rhone, Kelsey Rush, Mark Tobin, KenTodd,Craig Williams, Elizabeth Winter, JacQuan Winters, Sandra Wolfe

2023 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Immediate Past Chair

Tripp Powell

Yea Alabama

Chair

Michele Coley

Allstate Coley Agency

Chair-Elect

Jheovanny Gomez

Jalapenos Mexican Grill

Vice Chair, Membership and Resource Development

Anwar Aiken

The Grand Event Design & Décor

Vice Chair, Economic Development

Bobby Bragg

JamisonMoneyFarmer PC

Vice Chair, Public Policy and Advocacy

Matt Feller

BFGoodrich Tire Manufacturing

Vice Chair, Education and Workforce Development

Chip Fuqua Mercedes-Benz, U.S. International, Inc.

Vice Chair, Strategic Community Initiatives

Carl Jamison

JamisonMoneyFarmer PC

Vice Chair, Communications and Marketing

Jordan Morris

Ward Scott Morris Architecture

Vice Chair, Airport Development

Dave Pass

The Sealy Companies

Vice Chair, Leadership and Member Engagement

Kelsey Rush Visit Tuscaloosa

Legal Council

Blake Madison

Rosen Harwood

President & Chief Executive Officer/Secretary

“No other bank could take care of us like they did.”

Jim Page Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama wabt.com

Wayne and Karen Brown, owners Brown’s Collision Center Tuscaloosa

JIM PAGE ANNOUNCES UPCOMING DEPARTURE

AS CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO

THE LONGTIME CHAMBER LEADER WILL ASSUME AN EXECUTIVE ROLE WITH A HUNTSVILLE-BASED COMPANY IN MARCH

JJim Page, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama for the past decade, announced December 15, 2022 that he will be leaving the organization in March 2023. The announcement was made during the chamber’s board of directors meeting. Page has accepted an offer to become Executive Vice President of MartinFederal Consulting, LLC.

Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, MartinFed has more than 150 employees across nine states providing technical solutions in cyber, engineering, information technology, and training to multiple federal organizations including NASA, the FBI, ATF, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Defense. In this new role, Page will lead all government relations efforts, manage corporate and organizational

partnerships, oversee corporate marketing and branding, and provide leadership for mergers, acquisitions, and integrations.

“I have been blessed to enjoy 20 great years in the chamber industry and I am beyond proud of our extraordinary accomplishments here over the past 11 years, but this is an amazing career opportunity for me in the private sector to join a dynamic, fast-growing company. In addition to working with an incredibly talented team on critically important programs that provide for the safety and security of our nation, it also gives me a chance to scratch a longtime entrepreneurial itch,” Page said. “The icing on the cake is that this takes Sara, Elly, Emery, and I back home to Huntsville and much closer to our family.”

Page has led the chamber since January 2012 and has overseen tremendous organizational growth. He has spearheaded new programs and events to meet the diverse needs of the business community, while dramatically increasing membership, financial resources, and engagement.

Page has also played an instrumental role in significant initiatives impacting the entire community, including the development of The EDGE - Incubator and Accelerator; passage of legislation that created the Tuscaloosa County Road Improvement Commission, overseeing tens of millions of dollars in local infrastructure improvements; the launch and growth of the nationally-recognized West AlabamaWorks!

workforce development system; creation of the West Alabama Workforce and Community Development Center; and chamber industry-leading response efforts to support local small businesses during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama was named the 2021 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

Page is a member of the boards of directors of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, the Business Council of Alabama, and the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama, of which he is a past chairman. He is a graduate of the University of North Alabama and serves as a member of its Board of Trustees.

“Jim Page has worked tirelessly through the chamber to make this community better in so many ways,” Tripp Powell, chairman of the chamber’s board of directors, said. “This opportunity for Jim to take the next major step in his career is one he simply cannot let pass. While I’m sad to see Jim, Sara, and their precious girls leave, I’m excited for their next chapter and for them

getting closer to family. I also know the future of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama is brighter than ever.”

Powell immediately appointed a committee of prominent business and community leaders to facilitate a nationwide search for a new president and CEO. The goal is to have a seamless leadership transition upon Page’s departure in March.

“The timing of this transition has been very important to me because of my love for this organization and its people,” Page said. “The chamber now has a new five-year strategic plan, is completing a highly successful five-year capital campaign, and is settled into its expanded physical footprint in the heart of downtown Tuscaloosa. With a bold vision for the future, exceptional volunteer leadership, and a worldclass professional staff all in place, this organization is stronger than at any point in its 122-year history. I can’t imagine a better time to hand the baton over to a successor to take the chamber to even greater heights.”

COMMUNITY IMPACT

“What I love about Jim Page is that he is a DOER. I remember being in a meeting reviewing the past benchmarking trips that the Chamber had taken, and I made the comment that I felt I knew more about other cities than Tuscaloosa. From that simple comment it sparked Jim to have the idea for the Next Level Series, the Next Level Summit, and the Next Level Initiative. I thought it was masterful how Jim and the Chamber were able to get 100 plus community leaders to engage in such a huge undertaking. At each step of the project Jim could be seen laying the necessary groundwork to get us to the Next Level.

“Jim has been a tremendous asset to the West Alabama community. His philosophy of “it’s the right thing to do” really resonates in all his actions as the leader of the Chamber. I admire him and consider him the model I have patterned myself after in public leadership. As the current Chairman of the Board, I really hate to see him leave, but I will cherish the time I have gotten to serve with him.”

MICHELE

COLEY ALLSTATE

COLEY AGENCY 2023 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR

“Jim Page has made a difference for Tuscaloosa, and will be long remembered as a leader who got things done. Jim was instrumental in being the voices for businesses who were damaged or destroyed following the April 27, 2011 tornado. His advocacy and counsel was crucial to the City as we worked through the complicated issues of rebuilding the 13 percent of our community that was destroyed.

“Jim also played an integral role in the creation of The Edge in Tuscaloosa by fostering a successful partnership between the Chamber, the City, and The University of Alabama. His vision is now delivering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Tuscaloosa which will continue to expand in the coming decades.

“Jim’s accomplishments are too many to detail, but the bottom line is this – He made our community and all of us better because he served. Personally and professionally, I am going to miss him, but have no doubt that his next chapters in life will be successful.”

MAYOR WALT MADDOX CITY OF TUSCALOOSA

"Jim has always been a partner before a boss, working to change the face of our Chamber to be truly innovative.

"He cares about our community and about our organization. The difference he has made in not only West Alabama, but the entire state, is tremendous. I’ve had the pleasure of being in the “fox hole” with Jim on countless local, state and federal initiatives and we could count on Jim’s steadfast focus on making a difference in the life of our citizens and the success of our business community.

"I remember so many late nights working on the buildingchanging tiles, painting walls, building cabinets. He’s a picture of a true leader, never asking someone to do something he was not willing to do himself. He did what it took to get the job done and focused on results rather than politics.

"I can’t be more thankful for what he’s done for my family, our team and our community. He’s the epitome of what a leader should be."

DONNY JONES COO, CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WEST ALABAMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WEST ALABAMAWORKS!

“It’s hard to put into words the positive impact that Jim has had on the community, the Chamber world, and most of all the team that he has led over the last 11 years. As a strong supporter of professional growth, he has given myself the encouragement and confidence that has allowed me to advance within an organization that I have grown to love.

“He has been a great example of what a true leader should look like, and the type of leader I strive to be one day. Jim is intelligent, a visionary, and puts his trust in the team to get the job done. He truly demonstrates to the highest of World’s Best Boss.”

ALICIA GREGORY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WEST ALABAMA

COMMUNITY IMPACT

“I was fortunate to be a part of the search committee for the Chamber of Commerce when we located and interviewed Jim Page for the position of President and CEO. I remember the initial conversation that Lin Moore and I had with Jim as we were vetting candidates to come in for personal interviews. Jim’s confidence, passion and vision were immediately evident during our discussion, and he quickly emerged as a lead candidate in spite of his relatively young age.

“Jim provided us with an impressive list of references, including (interestingly enough) John Seymour, his boss at the time of his interview. All of Jim’s references spoke glowingly about his work ethic and credentials, but at the same time indicated how sad they would be to see him go and what a hit the Decatur Chamber and community would take as a result of his departure.

“I recall Jim’s confidence during the interview process, which was not rooted in arrogance, but instead in conviction that he knew he could make a difference in improving our Chamber and by extension our business community. Jim communicated that he already had a great love for Tuscaloosa, and in spite of several previous opportunities for career advancement, it was the chance to be in Tuscaloosa that really intrigued him. Obviously, we made the right choice in hiring Jim, and from day one when I was serving as Jim’s first Chairman, he has continued to exceed every expectation we had of him at the time. He managed to congeal and rebuild a somewhat beleaguered staff, create an extremely positive relationship with our city and county governments, and develop a Chamber that is nationally respected and exceptionally well- resourced for the future.

“As Jim moves on to pursue other career opportunities, I will certainly miss his leadership of our Chamber of Commerce. But more importantly, I will personally miss his influence in this community as an individual of character and as one with a genuine desire of making Tuscaloosa County and West Alabama a better place to live and to do business.”

MARK SULLIVAN BRYANT BANK 2012 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR

COMMUNITY IMPACT

“In my opinion, part of Jim’s legacy in Tuscaloosa will be that of the Great Convener. Jim has a gift of being able to bring people together. Somehow, Jim can manage to gather people in a room and set the right environment for real discussion to take place. A great convener is someone who does not shy away from honest, meaningful conversation, and Jim does not.

"I was privileged to work with Jim the most, even more than my year as Chair, during the Chamber’s purchase of its current building from Regions Bank. I think the vision that Jim had for the building, and the reality that has resulted, perfectly illustrates Jim’s unique and exceptional ability to bring groups together (in this case, under one roof) for common good. Jim’s gift for productive collaboration has served Tuscaloosa well, and our community will be indebted to Jim for always pushing to make us the best we can be together!”

ELIZABETH WINTER REGIONS BANK 2021 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR

“When it comes to Jim’s tenure with the Chamber, it’s become natural to find a leader that’s poised, innovative, collaborative, and entirely dedicated to the community he calls home. I have incredible admiration for people like Jim who consistently lead with courage and conviction. There’s no question that his commitment to Tuscaloosa – its businesses and its people – has been unwavering.

“However, one quality that I appreciate most about Jim is his ability to find the potential. It pairs well with one of my favorite quotes from Brene Brown: “Leaders take responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and have the courage to develop that potential.” I’ve watched Jim excel at this and it’s evident in the success of the Chamber, but even more-so, the businesses and organizations he’s helped over the years as well. Thank you, Jim, for showing up day-in and day-out for Tuscaloosa and for West Alabama!”

KELSEY RUSH

VISIT TUSCALOOSA CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

“Jim’s impact to the West Alabama region will be felt and seen for generations to come. He was instrumental in the creation of The Edge incubator and accelerator, advocating for gamechanging infrastructure investments through the Rebuild Alabama Act and the Tuscaloosa County Road Improvement Commission, and the Chamber’s lead role in workforce development through West Alabama Works. Generations of West Alabamians will enjoy the shade from the oaks he has planted.

“Jim is a dynamic leader with a collaborative and innovative approach to problem solving. He built a very talented team at the Chamber who will continue to build on its great legacy by driving change through innovation and thought leadership. That is a testament to him as leader of people. The recent accolades from the ACCE as the Chamber of the Year highlights Jim’s ability to face challenges head-on without a playbook, and often, by rolling up his sleeves to get it done. We knew that to be true throughout his eleven years here by working alongside him, but that recognition from the chamber industry’s best of the best really meant something to him to the entire Chamber team.

“I have no doubt that Jim will bring fresh new ideas to MartinFederal and be a tireless leader and advocate for the company and its employees. In short, they will be a better organization because of Jim’s involvement.

“I know this amazing professional opportunity will take him away from our community, but Jim can rest easy that his legacy will continue on. It will also be great for Sara, the girls, and his parents, so that makes me very happy for them.”

BOBBY BRAGG JAMISONMONEYFARMER PC 2020 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR

ALICIA GREGORY RECOGNIZED AS TOP 40 UNDER 40 BY THE ASSOCIATION OF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVES

TThe Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama's Director of Membership Engagement, Alicia Gregory, has been recognized by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) as a top 40 Under 40 honoree.

ACCE is the professional development and membership association for chambers of commerce throughout the United States and North America. The 40 Under 40 program recognizes the top emerging leaders in the chamber of commerce industry who have demonstrated success in their careers and made significant contributions in the communities they represent.

“Since joining the chamber in April 2018, Alicia has quickly emerged as a highly respected leader among her colleagues and a recognized difference-maker to external audiences because of her organizational skills, relentless work ethic and thorough understanding of chamber operations. She played a pivotal role in our innovative COVID-19 response efforts and in positioning the chamber to be named ACCE Chamber of the Year in 2021,” Jim Page, President and CEO of the Chamber, said.

“It’s an honor to be recognized and thought of as an emerging leader in the chamber industry,” Gregory said. “With the countless amount of training opportunities offered by ACCE and the knowledge and collaboration of our own staff, it has made the last five years the best growing opportunity for me, both personally and professionally.”

A native of Kentucky, Gregory earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Murray State University and is a 2022 graduate of Leadership Tuscaloosa.

NEW CHAMBER EMPLOYEES

MARLEE WILLIAMS

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT AND CEO

Marlee has been a member of the Chamber Staff since September 2022. She is responsible for the maintenance of The Chamber facility, conducts and plans Executive Committee and Board of Director meetings each month, Oversees the tenants in the building, provides administrative support, assists with set up and take down of Chamber events, handles the schedule for use of Chamber meeting spaces.

Prior to joining the Chamber team, Marlee served as Transaction Coordinator for Keller Williams (Global Homes Group) and spent several years working for Express Employment Professionals as a Staffing Consultant for the Industrial Division before that.

Marlee loves spending time with her family. She is married to Andrew, and they have two daughters, Emalyn and Piper. She is a huge Arkansas Razorback football fan.

TONYA MILLS

EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT PROJECT MANAGER, WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Tonya joined the Chamber staff in November 2022. She is the project manager for the I.G.N.I.T.E Student Employment Program and the Second Chance Program.

Tonya received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Rehabilitation Counseling both from the University of Alabama. Prior to joining the Chamber and West Alabama Works! Tonya served as a school counselor for 25 years and as senior employment counselor for Easter Seals of West Alabama.

Tonya enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and playing with her boxers, Jack and Ciri.

TIFFANY POE

MODERN MANUFACTURING CENTER OF EXCELLENCE PROJECT MANAGER, WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Tiffany joined the Chamber staff in July 2022. She focuses on ensuring fidelity and core competency with the curriculum for the Modern Manufacturing Center of Excellence schools in regions 1, 2, 3, and 5. She also works to build partnerships with schools, ensure that classroom needs are met, coordinate trainings, conduct evaluations, compile data, and monitor outcomes of the Modern Manufacturing Center of Excellence programs from each region.

Prior to joining the Chamber of West Alabama team, Tiffany served as the Compliance and Lead Case Manager for the United Way of Central Alabama Priority Veteran program. Tiffany completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science from Troy University in 2008 and her Master’s degree in Management from Troy University in 2022.

CHAMBER EVENTS

MEMBERS HIT THE GOLF COURSE TO SUPPORT ADOPT-A-SCHOOL

TThe Rumsey Environmental team was the overall tourney winner at the 32nd Annual Nocor Steel Tuscaloosa Adopt-A-School Golf Tournament. The team won $250 for each of their designated schools, Duncanville Middle School and Hillcrest High School.

Martin L. King, Jr. Elementary School and Rock Quarry Elementary School tied for the most golfers (elementary), and will receive $500, and Holt High School will receive $500 for having the most golfers (secondary). A random drawing was also held including all schools represented and Vance Elementary School was selected to receive $500.

1ST PLACE NET

(TOURNAMENT WINNERS)

RUMSEY ENVIRONMENTAL

DANIEL WILLIAMS

DAN WILLIAMS

COE BAXTER

RICHARD BURKLEW

E&A TEAM

MARK ENGLISH

BILL MILLER

HAL THURMOND

RON ALDY

2ND PLACE NET

BEARING SERVICE COMPANY

JEFF ALLEN

STEVE MCELROY

HUNTER WALKER

DAMIEN BOYD

HARRISON CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

WILL KELLY

NATHAN GLASSCO

COURT HENDRICKS

TAYLOR WHITLEY

3RD PLACE NET

NSK CORPORATION

DAVID SCHULTZE

DAVID PLYMAN

GREG TATE

WENDELL ROSS

SOUTHLAND TRANSPORTATION GROUP

LUKE SHAW

DAVIS PEARCE

FELLER MORRISON

TYLER HITCHNER

SPONSORS

WINNERS OF OTHER PRIZES

PUTTING CONTEST – LUKE SHAW

LONGEST DRIVE – DANIEL WILLIAMS

CHAMBER EVENTS

The Longest Drive winner won a recliner from Spiller Furniture & Mattress

CLOSEST TO THE PIN -JAMIE RIDDLE

The Closest to the Pin winner won a $1,000 gift certificate to Your Golf Superstore, donated by Wilson Machine & Welding, Inc.

The Adopt-A-School program would like to thank all the businesses and organizations who provided support for the Golf Tournament. Without their support, this event would not be possible.

TITLE SPONSOR

NUCOR STEEL

EAGLE SPONSORS

ALABAMA CREDIT UNION

BAMA CONCRETE PRODUCTS COMPANY, INC.

BF GOODRICH TIRE MANUFACTURING

BRYANT BANK

BURNUM-HAHN EXTERMINATORS, INC.

COMPLETE PIPELINE SERVICES & SUPPLY

COWIN EQUIPMENT COMPANY, INC.

PERFECT SHINE, INC.

PHIFER INCORPORATED

RUMSEY ENVIRONMENTAL

SYNOVUS

TUSCALOOSA COCA-COLA BOTTLING COMPANY

TUSCALOOSA MEMORIAL PARK & CHAPEL

WEST ALABAMA BANK

WHITESKY COMMUNICATIONS, LLC

AWARD RECEPTION SPONSOR

JALAPENOS MEXICAN GRILL

LUNCH SPONSOR

CHICK-FIL-A NORTHPORT

FAVOR SPONSOR

RUMSEY ENVIRONMENTAL

PUTTING CONTEST SPONSOR

RUMSEY ENVIRONMENTAL

GOLF CART SPONSOR

BUFFALO ROCK COMPANY / PEPSI-COLA

SCORECARD SPONSOR

CLOSEST TO THE PIN SPONSOR

WILSON MACHINE & WELDING, INC.

LONGEST DRIVE SPONSOR

SPILLER FURNITURE & MATTRESS

DONORS

ADAMS BEVERAGES

BUFFALO ROCK COMPANY / PEPSI-COLA

TUSCALOOSA HUMAN RESOURCE PROFESSIONALS

TUSCALOOSA RADIO

WVUA 23

HOLE SPONSORS

ADAMS BEVERAGES, ALABAMA CREDIT UNION, ALABAMA POWER, BAMA CONCRETE PRODUCTS COMPANY, INC., BANKFIRST,BFGOODRICH TIRE MANUFACTURING, BRYANT BANK, BURNUM-HAHN EXTERMINATORS, INC., CB&S BANK, CHICK-FIL-A NORTHPORT, COMPLETE PIPELINE SERVICES & SUPPLY, LLC, COWIN EQUIPMENT COMPANY, INC., DCH HEALTH SYSTEM, THE DISTRICT ROOM, ELLIS ARCHITECTS, INC., EXIT CAPSTONE REALTY, HARRISON CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC., INNISFREE IRISH PUB, JACQUAN D. WINTERS, REALTOR – PRITCHETT-MOORE REAL ESTATE, THE LANCE HOCUTT FINANCIAL GROUP, MCABEE CONSTRUCTION, INC., MCGIFFERT & ASSOCIATES, LLC, MERCEDES-BENZ U.S. INTERNATIONAL, INC., MOTION INDUSTRIES, NUCOR STEEL TUSCALOOSA, INC., PERFECT SHINE, INC., PHIFER INCORPORATED, P.R.I.D.E. OF TUSCALOOSA, ROBERTSON BANKING, RUMSEY ENVIRONMENTAL, SHELTON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, SPECTRUM REACH, SYNOVUS, TIGER ROCK MARTIAL ARTS—NORTHPORT, TTL, INC., TUSCALOOSA COCA-COLA BOTTLING COMPANY, TUSCALOOSA MEMORIAL PARK & CHAPEL, UAB CALLAHAN EYE, WEST ALABAMA BANK, WEST ALABAMA MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE, WHITESKY COMMUNICATIONS, LLC, WVUA23

TUSCALOOSA RADIO WJRD -WMHZ-92.1 THE POSSUM-96.1 THE BLESSING

Attendees also players won fantastic raffle prizes at the event donated by AC Hotel Tuscaloosa Downtown, Alabama Central Credit Union, Alabama ONE, Amore Catering, BFGoodrich Tire Manufacturing, Billy’s Sports Grill, BloGo Salon + Skin Wellness, Blue Water Vinyl, Buffalo Rock Company/Pepsi-Cola, Buffalo’s Café, CB&S Bank, Chick-fil-A Tuscaloosa South, Chuck’s Fish, Country Inn & Suites Tuscaloosa, Effie’s, Great American Cookie and Marble Slab Creamery, House Plant Collective, Hudson-Poole Fine Jewelers, Innisfree Irish Pub, Jalapeños Mexican Grill, Jason’s Deli, Kentuck Art Center & Festival, The Locker Room, Lorrie Lane Studio, McDonald’s, RPH Management, Inc., Motion Industries, Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa, Inc., Poppin Sisters Popcorn & Treats, RiverFall Credit Union, Sealy Furniture Company, Smile Doctors of Tuscaloosa, Speedy Oil Change, Inc., Tuscaloosa Eye Care, Urban Bar & Kitchen, LLC, and Whataburger.

CHAMBER IN SESSION: STATE OF THE ECONOMY

CChamber members from a range of industries turned out to hear from economic experts at our Chamber in Session: State of the Economy, presented by The University of Alabama.

The event, held at Embassy Suites November 15, looked at the current health of the local, state and national economy while providing attendees a future forecast in key areas of growth.

Anoop Mishra, Vice President and Regional Executive, Birmingham Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, provided a fed perspective on the current economic outlook. Discussing the current rise in

inflation, Mishra stated that he’s cautiously optimistic as we’re starting to see inflation ease a bit, but it’s contingent on the current supply chain and manufacturing issues.

Brian Hamilton of Trillion Communications Corporation also spoke of the supply chain issues and that the biggest concern was the disparity between the effects this current economic environment is having on the lower, middle and upper middle class.

During the presentation, attendees were able to provide their input in an interactive session on the state of our local economy.

Which statement best describes your outlook for supply chain conditions in 2023 relative to 2022?

Which best describes your view of the U.S. economy in 2023:

Which statement best describes your outlook for labor conditions (recruitment and retention) in 2023 relative to 2022?

Which statement best describes your organization's projected wage growth for 2023 relative to 2022?

What impact has the rapid rise in interest rates had on your organization's budgeting / spending?

had any impact on our budgeting / spending.

How would you characterize the Fed's response to inflation?

Which dynamic are you most concerned about looking into 2023?

The 2022 Prosperity Index, featuring the vital metrics that impact our community’s economic success was also released, and is available at WestAlabamaChamber.com

SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR

UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

GOLD SPONSOR

EMBASSY SUITES

SILVER SPONSORS

SHELTON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

TUSCALOOSA COUNTY COMMISSION

BRONZE SPONSOR

CB&S BANK

TABLE SPONSORS

ALABAMA ONE

BANKFIRST

BRYANT BANK

CITY OF TUSCALOOSA

EXIT CAPSTONE REALTY

JAMISONMONEYFARMER PC

RAYMOND JAMES

SMARTBANK

SYNOVUS

TUSCALOOSA TOURISM & SPORTS

UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA SYSTEM

WEST ALABAMA REGIONAL COMMISSION

WORKFORCE

A CHAMBER AT WORK

FIVE COUNTIES IN WEST AL REMAIN IN GOOD STANDING AT ACT WORKFORCE SUMMIT

ACT held its Workforce Summit “Work Smarter” October 3-5 in the “Big Easy” at The Sheraton New Orleans Hotel.

During the summit, communities from across the country were presented with plaques for being certified as a Work Ready Community, and those communities that are maintaining the certified status. Among the awards, West Alabama received five plaques maintaining status for Bibb, Fayette, Hale, Lamar, and Tuscaloosa Counties.

Attendees heard from leaders in education, business, workforce board members, economic development, and government agencies that shared ideas and best practices to develop and maintain a strong workforce ecosystem.

The ACT Workforce Summit, is a one-of-a-kind annual event to assemble the many different stakeholders involved in workforce development, and a great opportunity to network and collaborate with fellow educators, workforce and economic developers, employers, ACT Work Ready Community leaders, human resource specialists, and industry partners.

ALABAMAWORKS! INNOVATOR AWARD GOES TO MERCEDES-BENZ U.S. INTERNATIONAL WORKFORCE

FFriday, September 9th, AlabamaWorks! was pleased to recognize Mercedes-Benz U.S. International as this year’s Innovator Award recipient for Region 3 for their role in helping to launch the Modern Manufacturing Program at Brookwood High School.

Mercedes-Benz US International Inc. (MBUSI) is an integral partner of West AlabamaWorks (WAW) strategic plan and process. When WAW launched the Modern Manufacturing Program at Brookwood High School MBUSI did not hesitate to come on board to support the program, teachers, administrators and students. MBUSI staff serve as advisors to the program where they share the vision of MBUSI and the workforce

needs with the students. They also go above and beyond to support the program through donations to the program so students are able to learn with hands-on materials they would encounter at the plant.

As the modern manufacturing program was replicated with other schools in our region MBUSI added to their commitment by donating a GLE SUV to each participating school for students to take apart and put back together each semester to gain knowledge of the manufacturing process. As the program has been launched in three other regions MBUSI has shared the process of how they partner with our K-12 school system for other regions to replicate.

This year MBUSI added to their commitment by breaking down barriers to implement a youth apprenticeship program for 16–18 year-old students.

This unprecedented thought process took much planning and approval but was an important part of the process to train our future workforce for success. So far MBUSI has hired and trained 24 students who are a part of the paid apprenticeship. They work with the students’ schedules to allow them to complete valuable work experience while still enjoying their high school experience. Youth apprentices at the plant have a uniform that identifies them and their role and allows other team members to assist them and mentor them while they are working in the plant. After graduation, students are hired as full-time employees with benefits and a raise. Many students have already moved from entry level jobs to team leaders due to the support and

guidance of the apprenticeship program. With MBUSI’s leadership they have shared their process of the youth apprenticeship model with their suppliers who have been able to replicate this success and give students more opportunities in the automotive field.

Donny Jones, West AlabamaWorks Executive Director stated “the partnership between MBUSI and WAW is a great example of how business and industry partners can invest in and encourage our youth who are their future workforce.”

The awards were developed to highlight people and programs across the state that take an innovative approach to solve workforce challenges and help advance Governor Ivey’s Success Plus attainment goal of adding 500,000 highly skilled workers by 2025.

WORLDS OF WORK EXPO 2022

SUCCESS BY THE NUMBERS

WWorlds of Work (WOW) Career & Industry Expo was back in person for a 2-day event October 13-14, 2022, on the Martin campus of Shelton State Community College.

The WOW Career event saw a total of 4,030 students and their guardians with 3,675 of those students in attendance and engaged during the WOW event for ninth graders Oct. 13th & 14th.

355 students and their guardians were in attendance for WOW Varsity held for our 10th – 12th grade students on October 13th from 2pm-6pm with a focus on getting parents involvement.

102 exhibitors participated over the span of 2 days. The WOW VIP Breakfast took place Friday October 14th from 7:30am-9am at Shelton State Community College Gymnasium with business and industry leaders and education partners in attendance. There were also two communities visiting from Great Falls, Montana and Tallahassee, Florida during the 2-days.

The fourth Educator Workforce Academy (EWA) Graduation was held during the WOW VIP Breakfast. Last year, educators visited numerous places including Brose, Phifer Inc, McAbee Construction, BF Goodrich, career technical centers, workforce centers, and heard from key leaders in education on workforce development. We appreciate each of these companies who supported the Academy this year. Each participant had to complete action plan and participate in 100% of the sessions to graduate.

We are happy to announce that 37 education leaders in our region graduated on October 14th from the program as educator workforce fellows. During the WOW VIP Breakfast, we welcomed our new 2022-2023 Educator Workforce Academy class with 81 top level educators participating, representing seven counties.

[BU:ST] LLC

AUGUST THROUGH NOVEMBER

3535 Pelham Road, Suite 201

Greenville, SC 26915

Phone: (864) 382-0191

Mark Wyman Consultants

A&R TAX AND BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

1105 Southview Lane Ste. 103 #417

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 826-1678

Amber Wells Tax Preparation

ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION SERVICES

1400 James I Harrison Jr Pkwy E., Suite 300

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 554-1300

Caitlin Hynes Government

APRIL LEIGH - DHI RESIDENTIAL A

D.R. HORTON COMPANY

11388 Tingle Tangle Road

Vance, AL 35490

Phone: (205) 526-4215

Terica Bexley Marable

Rental Properties

Real Estate / Apartments / Condo

AUTOTREAD, INC.

2224 3rd Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233

Phone: (205) 320-7000

LaToya Colvin

Automobile - Service / Parts / Collision Repair Services

BOBAMANIA

1800 McFarland Blvd, Suite 434

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (828) 989-6799

Shannon Grady Restaurants

CENTRAL MESA

519 Greensboro Ave

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (256) 682-5104

Brandon Tribble Restaurants

CRIMSON CUTS

2115 University Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 565-8614

Jack Mauldin Hair Salons/ Barber Shops

CROUX

2324 2nd Avenue N

Birmingham, AL 35203

Phone: (205) 533-3444

Lindsey Founder Employment Contractors / Staffing

D.R. HORTON INC.

2188 Parkway Lake Drive

Hoover, AL 35244

Phone: (205) 822-1611

Hannah Reilly Construction - General Real Estate / Realty / Realtors

DAVID ALLEN CAPITAL, INDEPENDENT AGENCY

58 Cumberland Park

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 737-5400

Amy McDaniel Financial Services

DRUID CITY WELLNESS CENTER

653 Helen Keller BLVD

Tuscaloosa, AL 35466

Phone: (205) 301-0769

Ella Williamson

Health Care Services - Outpatient Mental Health Services

ELITE RECRUITING

130 Hargrove Road

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 554-8013

Heather Fikes Employment Contractors / Staffing

FMS MANAGEMENT SERVICE LLC

9420 Ranch Circle

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 774-6896

Sheri Harshaw

Logistics / Transportation

INDIAN HILLS PLASTIC SURGERY

3601 Watermelon Road

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 462-7372

Anna Shiew Spa - Medical

LI- CYCLE

1601 Boone Blvd.

Northport, AL 35476

Phone: 1-877-542-9253

Greg Montgomery

Manufacturing & Production

NEW HEIGHTS

COMMUNITY CENTER

1210 21st Ave

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 759-3700

Tesney Davis

Schools - Other Non-Profit Organizations

NEWCASTLE HOMES

121 Bishop Circle

Pelham, AL 35124

Phone: (205) 326-7406

Madison Benson

Real Estate Developers

NORTHPORT LIVING MAGAZINE

Tuscaloosa, AL 35402

Phone: (205) 301-4763

Patricia Blondheim

Advertising & Marketing

PARTY WOW OF TUSCALOOSA, LLC

2610 McFarland Boulevard East

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (659) 239-6601

Samuel Rubenstein

Retail - Specialty Retailer

PAYCOR

11428 Stella Way

Northport, AL 35475-4578

Phone: (205) 454-0478

Brandon Howard

Human Resource / Payroll

PEACH COBBLER FACTORY

1130 University Blvd, Suite B4

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 502-4326

Wade Johnson

Restaurants

Bakeries - Retail

PHROPRO DESIGNS

566 Killdeer Road

Newbern, AL 36765

Phone: (803) 719-1211

Advertising & Marketing

Artists & Art Instruction

PRESS PLAY ENTERTAINMENT AND INFLATABLES LLC

14100 Preston Woods

Northport, AL 35475

Phone: (205) 535-0619

Mallory Smith

Entertainment / Recreation

Rental Services / Supplies

R-N-T LAWN AND TRIMMING/ LANDSCAPING

1900 Rice Mine Road North, Apt. 107

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 496-4322

Rick Townsend

Landscape / Lawn Care

RAUSCH COLEMAN HOMES

3825 Lorna Rd., Ste 214

Hoover, AL 35244

Phone: (205) 650-2037

Katie McWilliams

Real Estate Developers

REGENCY RETIREMENT VILLAGE

5001 Old Montgomery Hwy

Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Phone: (205) 752-5500

Jennifer Anderson

Nursing / Retirement / Assisted Living Homes

RODGERS CONSULTING GROUP, BROKERED BY EXP REALTY

11897 Hwy 86

Carrollton, AL 35447

Phone: (205) 799-0796

Debbie Rodgers

Real Estate Management Business Development

RONALD TURNER REAL ESTATE

2123 9th Street, Suite 201

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 242-3656

Ronald Turner

Rental Properties

SOCAL CANTINA

2808 University Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 247-3205

Emma Neal Restaurants

STAR COOPERATION USA, INC.

10097 Brose Drive, Suite 100

Vance, AL 35490

Phone: (205) 240-3223

Emre Altindal Transportation

THEDAPPERGROOMER

3801 Millcreek Ln

Tuscaloosa , AL 35404

Phone: (205) 579-0518

Arista Garcia

Veterinarians / Pet Boarding / Grooming

TUSCALOOSA CIVIL RIGHTS

HISTORY & RECONCILIATION FOUNDATION

2515 Shoal Place

Northport, AL 35473

Phone: (205) 369-3406

Tim Lewis Non-Profit Organizations

TUSCALOOSA COUNTY

BRANCH OF NAACP

P.O. Box 2671

Tuscaloosa, AL 35403

Phone: (205) 887-3701

Lisa Young Non-Profit Organizations

UAB CALLAHAN EYE

1720 University Boulevard, Suite 305 Birmingham, AL 35233

Phone: (205) 325-8239

Leah Glenn Health Care Facilities

UNITI FIBER

107 St. Francis Street, Suite 1800

Odenville, AL 35120

Phone: (205) 422-8689

Daniel Callins Telecommunications & Phone Systems

VIBE SALON LLC

1406 22nd Avenue

Tuscaloosa , AL 35401

Phone: (205) 764-5200

Kaitlin Nixon Hair Salons/ Barber Shops

WARRIOR INVESTMENT GROUP

100 Towncenter Boulevard, Suite 201

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phone: (205) 634-2400

Mitchell Loper Financial Planners / Consultants

WARRIOR SECURITY, LLC

7351 Mockingbird Rd

Cottondale, AL 35453

Phone: (205) 527-4488

Corey Mason

Security Systems / Equipment / Monitoring

Phone: (205) 320-7000

Phone: (205) 737-5400

Amy McDaniel

Phone: (205) 861-2546

Misty Garrison

Phone: (205) 539-2696

Danielle Edison Lee

LaToya Colvin

Phone: (205) 394-7352

Jasmine Prewitt B.

Phone: (205) 391-4585

Mary Virginia Best

Phone: (828) 989-6799

Shannon Grady

Phone: (205) 771-4444

Sonya Chappell

Sheri Harshaw

INDIAN HILLS PLASTIC SURGERY 3601 Watermelon Road

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

Phoone: (205) 462-7372

Anna Shiew

MC SOCIAL, LLC

12949 Rolling Meadows Cir

Northport, AL 35473

Phone: (205) 394-7880

Nikki Taylor

STEVEN FIKES: ALLSTATE INSURANCE

130 Hargrove Road

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 248-0303

Steven Fikes

JASON'S DELI 2300 McFarland Blvd. East, Suite 10 Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 752-6192

Christian LeBlanc

PAYCOR

11428 Stella Way

Northport, AL 35475-4578

Phone: (205) 454-0478

Brandon Howard

TAYLOR HARDIN SECURE MEDICAL FACILITY

1301 Jack Warner Pkwy NE

Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Phone: (205) 462-4506

LiJessica Mack

LI-CYCLE PLANT 1601 Boone Blvd. Northport, AL 35476

Phone: 1-877-542-9253

Greg Montgomery

SOCAL CANTINA 2808 University Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 247-3205

Emma Neal

TEMPORARY EMERGENCY SERVICESMOBILE SHOWER UNITS

1705 15th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 758-5535

Karen Thompson-Jackson

THOMPSON ENGINEERING

2900 8th Street

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 759-3221

Craig Williams

TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT

2816 McFarland Blvd. East

Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405

Phone: (205) 462-8800

Haley McBride

VIBE SALON, LLC

1406 22nd Avenue

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Phone: (205) 764-5200

Kaitlin Nixon RIBBON CUTTINGS AND GROUNDBREAKINGS (CON'T)

CHAIRMANS CIRCLE

CEO COUNCIL Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama | JamisonMoneyFarmer PC | Paragon HM Wealth Mgt. at Morgan Stanley | Pass Family, LLC | Peco Foods, Inc. | Premier Service Company |Schnellecke Logistics | Synovus | The Nine | TTL | Tuscaloosa Association of Realtors

INVESTOR LEADER Alabama Credit Union | BankFirst | Barge Design Solutions Inc. | Camgian Microsystems | Cintas | Lear Corporation | Onin Staffing | Parker Towing Company | Pritchett-Moore, Inc. Insurance and Real Estate | Rosen Harwood Attorneys At Law | Spire | The Builders Group | Thompson Tractor | TownSquare Media

GROWTH PARNER Allstate Coley Agency | ARD Logistics | Buffalo Rock | Cinta's | Duncan Coker Associates, P.C. | Ellis Architects, Inc. | Fitts Agency | Hampton Inn | HFS Holding | Lear Corporation | McAbee Construction | Northport Auto Supply Co. Inc. | Plaster, Scarvey and Shumaker | Robertson Banking | Star Cooperation USA, Inc. | The Frazer Lanier Company | The Radiology Clinic | Totalcom, Inc. | Urban Bar & Kitchen, LLC | Ward Scott Architecture

The EDGE is a partnership with The University of Alabama, the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce and the City of Tuscaloosa. Resources from all three groups come together to help grow a vibrant ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship, business growth, and personal enterprise.

The Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute is a campus-wide, UA initiative powering the programs that are offered at The EDGE.