CONNECT
What is WOW?
Worlds of Work (WOW) is a nationally-recognized, immersive experience, showcasing competitive careers in West Alabama to over 4,000 students. WOW allows students to explore career opportunities through hands-on demonstrations with industry leaders. Taking over Shelton State Community College’s campus for two days, the event draws hundreds of businesses and industry partners to showcase their companies and grow their future workforce. The purpose of WOW is to create awareness about exciting career opportunities among students and educators while addressing workforce needs in West Alabama.
WOW is a project formed by West AlabamaWorks! and The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. Industry support makes WOW possible. This year’s sponsors are recognized on pages 24-25. Thank you for your support!
WORLD LEADERS
Agriculture
Laura Miller, Alabama Cooperative Extension SystemAuburn University
Angle Miller, Marengo County Economic Development Authority
Construction
Sara Lavender Burkhalter, Lavender, Inc.
Eden Lindsey, Harrison Construction, Inc.
Cosmetology
LaToya Armstead, Shelton State Community College
Erica Grant, The Charm Academy
Education
Lisa Williams, Shelton State Community College
Energy + Utilities
Lavonda Dodd, Hunt Refining Company
Ben Marsh, Alabama Power
Engineering
Dr. Derek Williamson, The University of AlabamaCollege of Engineering
Healthcare*
Peggy Sease, DCH Health System
Courtney Wingo, DCH Health System
Shawn Hall, DCH Health System
Hospitality + Tourism**
Toby Wilson, Wilson Hospitality
Josh Rivers, Visit Tuscaloosa
Manufacturing + Automotive + Logistics
Tracy Herndon, Phifer Incorporated
Steve Colburn, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.
Public Safety
Ralph Clayton, Tuscaloosa County Sheriff Office
Delia Ozment, Tuscaloosa County EMA
Transportation
Erin Parker, Southland Transportation Group
*2024 Best World Award: Healthcare
**2024 Trailblazer Award: Hospitality & Tourism
2025 WORLDS OF WORK PARTNERS
Becoming... Unstoppable
The best chapters in Alabama’s automotive success story are yet to come. The Mercedes-Benz automobile of the future will be different; greener, more efficient, safe, and even more fascinating. Only one thing will never change — it will wear a star.
Mercedes-Benz U.S. International offers many opportunities for students to develop the skills necessary for success.
Learn more about opportunities with MBUSI: https://mbusi.com/employment
AGRICULTURE
Agriculture is all around us, from the food we eat to the clothes we wear to the homes we live in. It plays a vital role in Alabama’s economy, the health of its citizens, and the beauty of its landscapes. If you’re looking for a career that connects you to the outdoors, agriculture offers exciting opportunities.
Careers in Agriculture
Occupations listed below require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
On The Job Training + Technical Training
Poultry
Bachelor’s Degree
$35,000 - $88,000
$48,060 - $102,510
$35,520 - $48,060
$31,130 - $70,890
$29,640 - $48,060
Interested in attending college?
Occupations listed below and to the right require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Associate Degree
$30,180 - $59,310
Doctorate Degree
Meet Haley Tractor Supply Company Store Manager
“My experiences in the Brookwood High School Ag Department helped me learn about many agricultural topics. This knowledge helped form my career path in sales, marketing, and management with Tractor Supply Company. There are so many avenues for agricultural jobs, and I am lucky enough to work for a business that sells supplies to everyone, including farmers!”
Interested in Agriculture? Ask companies...
What skills are most important for success in agriculture?
What does a typical day look like for you in your role?
Can you describe your career path and how you got into agriculture?
Agriculture Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in agriculture.
Unscramble the careers to discover high-paying, highdemand jobs in West Alabama’s Agriculture industry.
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
CONSTRUCTION
Construction is an important part of our community. As towns and cities grow, construction helps build houses, create jobs, and make roads, schools, and other buildings we all use every day.
Careers in Construction
Occupations listed below require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
High School Diploma + On the Job Training
Occupation
Concrete Finisher
$36,000 - $80,000 Drywall
Apprenticeship + Technical Training Occupation
$36,000 - $90,000
$35,000 - $96,000 Equipment
$35,000 - $61,000
$37,000 - $93,000
$29,000 - $72,000
$35,000 - $99,000
- $114,000
$37,000 - $63,000 HVAC Mechanic
$36,000 - $82,000
$25,000 - $93,000
$38,000 - $101,000
Plumber $37,000 - $60,000
$31,000 - $76,000
- $114,000
$38,000 - $100,000
Interested in attending college?
Occupations listed below require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Bachelor’s Degree
Civil Engineer
Construction Manager
Estimator
$62,000 - $109,000
$66,000 - $114,000
$37,000 - $106,000 Inspector
Project Manager
Quality Control Specialist
Safety Professional
$40,000 - $104,000
$66,000 - $114,000
$38,000 - $85,000
$42,000 - $106,000
Meet Scottie Pickens Academy, Class of 2022
Attended WOW 2019 | Welder, Lavender, Inc.
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to come to WOW?
“Find the areas that have the job you are interested in but also pay attention to all areas because you might find something you enjoy better.”
Q: What was your favorite thing about WOW? “My favorite thing was being able to see all the hands-on preparations and outcomes.”
Interested in Construction? Ask companies...
What are the different career paths in construction? What skills are most important for success in the construction industry? What advice would you give to someone starting out in construction?
Construction Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in construction.
Unscramble the careers to discover high-paying, high-demand jobs in West Alabama in the industry.
Career Connect
Career Connect, an initiative of West AlabamaWorks, is a dynamic blend of platform, process, and people—strategically designed to connect job seekers with training, support services, and meaningful employment opportunities.
At its core, Career Connect leverages cuttingedge technology to find, engage, and guide individuals—especially those traditionally disconnected from the workforce, such as high school students, justice impacted individuals, and those in rural areas.
westalabamajobs.com/kiosk
COSMETOLOGY
Working in cosmetology allows you to meet new people and give them confidence by helping them look and feel their best. You may have the opportunity to work in an existing salon, studio or spa, work individually for special events, or even open your own salon as a small business owner.
Careers in Cosmetology
Apprenticeship + Technical Certificate
Occupation
Esthetician
Hairstylist
Makeup Artist
Massage Therapist
Nail Technician
Salon/Spa Manager
Wedding and Event Stylist
$23,000 - $73,000
$24,000 - $90,000
$28,000 - $45,000
$46,000 - $105,000
$26,000 - $83,000
$21,500 - $55,000
$25,000 - $53,000
Meet Greyting
Holt High School, Class of 2024
Attended WOW 2019 | Shelton State Cosmetology Student
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to come to WOW?
“Explore the sections with jobs you’re already interested in, but don’t forget to check out all the other areas as well. You might discover a new passion you never knew you had.”
Q: What are your career goals in cosmetology?
“I hope to own a salon in the future where I can perform facials, eyebrow waxing, and more.”
Interested in Cosmetology? Ask the schools...
What kind of education or training is necessary to become a cosmetologist?
What are the requirements for obtaining a cosmetology license or certification?
How important is hands-on experience, such as working in a salon, for a career in cosmetology?
Cosmetology Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in cosmetology.
By using the salary table, match the occupation with the salary range.
Spa Manager
Esthetician
Hairstylist
Makeup Artist
Massage Therapist
$46,000 - $105,000
$24,000 - $90,000
$21,500 - $55,000
$23,000 - $73,000
$28,000 - $45,000
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
Myca Mack Beauty
EDUCATION
Teaching gives you the opportunity to make a lasting impact on people’s lives. As an educator, you can shape not only someone’s knowledge, but also their way of thinking and personal growth. Education is both rewarding and meaningful, and skilled professors are needed in schools, colleges, universities, and beyond.
Careers in Education
Occupations listed below require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
High School Diploma
$25,000 - $58,000 Child Nutrition Program
- $19,807 Computer Technician
In-school Intervention Monitor
Substitute Teacher
$41,000 - $74,000
$21,397 - $30,206
$67.32- $100.00/day
Interested in attending college?
Occupations listed below require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Associate Degree
Occupation
Bookkeeper
$30,000 - $65,000 Licensed
$40,000 - $73,000 Receptionist
Bachelor’s Degree
- $74,000
- $54,000
$24,000 - $33,000
$27,279 - $33,272 Teacher’s
Master’s Degree
Occupation
College
- $62,000
$49,623 - $227,163
$48,000 - $98,000
$65,000 - $158,000 Librarian
Psychologist/Psychometrist
$45,000 - $98,000
$56,000 - $75,000
Interested in Education? Ask...
Meet Eboni
Paul W. Bryant High School, Class of 2020
Attended WOW 2015
Woodland Forrest Elementary, 3rd Grade Teacher
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to come to WOW?
“I would tell them to be open-minded and lean into what grasps their attention. Take advantage of the knowledge and incredible experiences at the event.”
Q: What was your favorite memory about WOW?
“One of my favorite memories of WOW was the many interactive setups and conversations with people about the different careers.”
What age group or subject do you enjoy teaching the most, and why?
What inspired you to pursue a career in education? What qualifications are needed to become an educator?
Education Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in education.
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
Searching for high-wage, high-demand careers in West Alabama is easier than you think. WOW opens up a wide range of possibilities to find a career.
Bookkeeper
Earn
ENERGY + UTILITIES
Our lives center on energy. Without it, your morning would have been different with no alarm clock, hot water, hairdryer, stove, or television. All these things depend on natural gas, electricity, or oil. Challenges are ahead in reliably providing energy to a growing world while minimizing the impact on the environment. Find out more about how you can get into energy at www.getintoenergy.com.
Careers in Energy + Utilities
High School + Experience
Occupations listed above require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
Interested in attending college?
Occupations listed below and to the right require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Meet Miranda
Tuscaloosa County High School, Class of 2012 Engineer at Alabama Power
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to enter a career in your industry?
“My biggest advice is to be proactive and intentional. Engineering values both technical skills and a problem-solving mindset, so be ready to discuss projects, internships, or coursework that highlight those strengths. When you have opportunities to meet potential employers, be sure to engage in meaningful conversations and ask about company challenges, team dynamics, and growth opportunities. Showing curiosity and creativity sets you apart—engineering thrives on innovation and asking the right questions.”
Q: What is your favorite aspect about your industry?
“What I love most about engineering is the ability to solve real-world problems and see tangible results from your work. Whether it’s designing systems, improving processes, or building something from the ground up, there’s a deep sense of impact. I am excited to see how the next generation is shaping the future through engineering.”
Interested in Energy + Utilities? Ask companies...
Can you describe a typical day in your job and what your main responsibilities are? What led you to pursue a career in the energy and utilities industry? What college majors or programs are best suited for a career in energy and utilities?
Energy + Utilities Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in energy + utilities.
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
ENGINEERING
Engineers are problem solvers. They design, build, and manage the infrastructure of our communities. From buildings, vehicles, power grids, and satellites to new materials, medical devices, drinking water plants, and manufacturing processes. Engineers are critical to most industries and improve our quality of life. If you are seeking a creative and rewarding profession, consider pursuing a career in engineering.
Bachelor’s Degree
A Career in Engineering requires at least a Bachelor’s Degree.
Interested in Engineering? Ask...
Meet Gage
Northside High School, Class of 2023
Attended WOW 2019
University of Alabama Junior, Majoring in Engineering
Q: What made you choose engineering at UA?
“I chose engineering because of the many different ways I could apply the degree to the workforce, and the security for finding a job after graduating.”
Q: What advice you would give to a student thinking about engineering?
“The best thing you can do is meet and talk to professional engineers in the fields you are interested in to hear their experiences and see if it’s something you would be passionate doing in the future and getting a small sample of them all.”
Can you describe a typical day in your job and what your main responsibilities are?
What led you to pursue a career in the engineering industry?
What are the different types of engineering, and how did you choose your specialty?
Engineering Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in engineering.
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
By using the salary table, match the occupation with the salary range.
Mechanical Engineer
Civil Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
Consulting Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Software Engineer
$63,403 - $150,640
$117,000 - $173,000
$66,000 - $168,000
$76,293 - $188,910
$69,148 - $157,470
$62,108 - $156,530
WOW POWERED BY OUR SPONSORS
Sponsors are companies who make WOW possible.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
HOST SPONSOR
DIAMOND SPONSORS
COMMUNITY WOW SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
PARTNERING SPONSORS
(205) 345-2718
VIP BREAKFAST SPONSORS
HEALTHCARE
Did you know that healthcare careers are not limited to doctors and nurses? Using science and problem-solving skills, people in healthcare create new medications, discover cures for diseases, comfort the sick, and operate high-tech tools for diagnosing and treating illness and injury. Whether taking care of patients or working behind the scenes, healthcare in Alabama has an opportunity for everyone.
Careers in Healthcare
Meet Hannah, Employed as a mother/baby registered nurse at DCH Homeschooled, 2021 Graduate | Attended WOW 2016
Q: What is your favorite memory about WOW?
“The highlight of WOW for me was the labor and delivery simulator where I got to deliver a baby. It really piqued my interest in mother/baby nursing, and now I work as a registered nurse at DCH in the mother/baby unit. Ironically, the nurse who led the simulation that I was a part of is now my boss.”
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to come to WOW?
“I would tell a student preparing to go to WOW to be open-minded and keep their options open. Go to each career path booth and participate. At the end of the day, think about what experiences you enjoyed the most at WOW. It could definitely give you direction for your future.”
Interested in Healthcare? Ask companies...
What high school courses would you recommend for someone interested in healthcare?
What qualities do you think are essential for someone working in healthcare?
How important is volunteering or gaining experience in a healthcare setting while still in school?
Healthcare Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in healthcare.
Unscramble the careers to discover high-paying, high-demand jobs in West Alabama.
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All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
HOSPITALITY + TOURISM
Hospitality and Tourism is one of the world’s largest industries, covering hotels, restaurants, travel, events, and entertainment. It’s all about making people feel welcome and creating great experiences—whether that’s at a hotel, a theme park, a concert, or while traveling to new places. Careers in this field include hotel managers, chefs, event planners, tour guides, cruise staff, and more. If you enjoy meeting new people, traveling, problemsolving, and working in a fun, fast-paced environment, Hospitality and Tourism could be the perfect career path for you.
Careers in Hospitality + Tourism
High School Diploma + On the Job Training
$28,000 - $58,000
$42,000 - $105,000
Interested in attending college?
Occupations highlighted in this section require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Bachelor’s Degree
$30,000 - $48,000
$26,000 - $45,000 Housekeeper
$34,000 - $74,000 Referee, Umpire,
$25,000 - $93,000 Associate + Technical Training
Chef/Head
$36,000 - $96,000
$46,000 - $75,000
Spa Services Manager $36,000 - $111,000
Occupations listed above require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
Caterer & Catering Manager
$34,000 - $75,000 Convention and Event Planner
$35,000 - $101,000
$22,000 - $60,000 General Manager
$43,000 - $225,000
$25,000 - $155,000 Marketing
$77,000 - $199,000
$47,700 - $135,000 Park Ranger
$38,000 - $95,000
Playground Designer $40,000 - $71,000
Restaurant Manager
Sales Manager
$33,000 - $75,000
$34,000 - $135,000
Meet Aireal
Tuscaloosa County High School, Class of 2004
General Manager of the Hampton Inn Tuscaloosa-University
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to enter a career in your industry?
“Take the time to learn everything that goes into giving the guests the very best experience.”
Q: What is your favorite aspect about your industry?
“I love having the opportunity to positively impact someone’s day. We deal with so many people each and every day. It is important to ensure that guests are happy and feel comfortable where they stay.”
Interested in Hospitality + Tourism? Ask companies...
What college majors or programs are best suited for a career in hospitality and tourism?
What are the different career paths within the hospitality and tourism industry? What opportunities are there for advancement or specialization within your industry?
Hospitality + Tourism Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in
By using the salary table, match the occupation with the salary range.
General Manager
Sous Chef
Caterer
$77,000 - $199,000
$34,000 - $75,000
$46,000 - $75,000
$42,000 - $105,000
$38,000 - $95,000
$43,000 - $225,000
Learn employability, safety, technical, and hands-on skills
Earn industry-recognized credentials in high school
Access apprenticeship opportunities
Secure a full-time job with benefits after graduation
MANUFACTURING + AUTOMOTIVE + LOGISTICS
Manufacturing employees are in high demand in our region, state, country, and world. Careers in production, maintenance, welding, logistics, and engineering offer a wide range of opportunities at every level of education. Whether immediately following high school or completing a bachelor’s degree, exciting manufacturing careers in West Alabama can provide competitive wages and considerable job security.
Careers in Manufacturing + Automotive + Logistics
High School Diploma + Technical Training Occupation
$31,000 - $76,000
$40,000 - $190,000 Machine
$28,000 - $50,000 Machinist
$36,000 - $59,000 Material Handler/Forklift Operator
$32,000 - $57,000 Mechanic
Interested in attending college?
Occupations listed below require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Associate Degree Occupation
$46,000 - $125,000
- $190,000
$33,000 - $83,000 Shift
$49,000 - $88,000
$65,000-
$41,000
Occupations listed above require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
Bachelor’s Degree
Meet Jackson
Tuscaloosa County High School Class of 2025
Mechanical Maintenance Apprentice at Phifer Incorporated
Q: How did WOW impact your career choice?
“WOW showed me jobs I didn’t know existed. You don’t realize how many different jobs are out there until you get to see it at WOW.”
Q: What is your favorite memory about WOW?
“Meeting people from all the different career fields and getting to participate hands on activities.”
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to come to WOW?
“Be open to everything, try different things and don’t rule out a world just because you don’t think there would be a job you would like.”
Interested in Manufacturing + Automotive + Logistics? Ask companies...
What are the different career paths in manufacturing + automotive + logistics? What skills are required for a job in this career field?
Are there any high school courses that would be beneficial for someone interested in this field?
Manufacturing + Automotive + Logistics Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about different careers in the manufacturing + automotive + logistics industry.
By using the salary table, match the occupation with the salary range.
Production Coordinator
Machinist
Operations Management
Mechanic
Assembly & Production Worker
Welder
$36,000 - $59,000
$33,000 - $83,000
$38,000 - $56,000
$31,000 - $76,000 $87,000 - $144,000 $86,000 - $144,000
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
PUBLIC SAFETY
A career in public service ensures our society will continue to function in a just and orderly manner. Police officers, firefighters, and corrections officers are career options available in our community through local branches of service. Military careers require some of the same personal and professional characteristics, but they have a wider global impact.
Careers in Public Safety
High School Diploma + On The Job Training
Interested in attending college?
Occupations listed below require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Occupations listed above require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
Meet Delia
American Christian Academy Graduate, Class of 2014
EM Specialist for Tuscaloosa County Emergency Management Agency
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to enter a career in public safety?
“My advice to a student preparing for a career in Public Safety would be to focus on developing strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Clear communication ensures information is shared accurately and quickly, while collaboration builds the teamwork needed to respond to complex situations. By practicing active listening, tailoring communication to different audiences, and building trust, they’ll be better prepared to work seamlessly with partners and serve their community effectively.”
Q: What is your favorite aspect about your industry?
“My favorite aspect of working in the Public Safety industry is the opportunity to truly make a difference in people’s lives. The most rewarding part of my career has been being able to step in and provide help during someone’s time of greatest need. There is a sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from knowing your work directly supports the safety and well-being of your community. For me, that impact makes all of the challenges worthwhile and continues to motivate me every day.”
Interested in Public Safety? Ask companies...
What college majors or programs are best suited for a career in public safety?
How important is gaining experience through internships or volunteering in public safety? What are some of the most rewarding aspects of working in public safety?
Public Safety Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in public safety.
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
Searching for high-wage, high-demand careers in West Alabama is easier than you think. WOW opens up a wide range of possibilities to find a career.
Firefighter FBI Agent Deputy
McAbee has called Tuscaloosa home and proudly employed a local workforce since 1962. Visit our WOW booth to learn more about our di erent rewarding roles in heavy industrial construction, fabrication, plant maintenance, crane rental, HVAC services, and more!
Quality service is the main ingredient in everything we do.
At Bu alo Rock, every day we strive to provide quality service to our customers. It’s a reputation we’ve built for more than a century, and a source of pride to us. We are equally proud of the communities we serve, and we stay dedicated to making them better places to live and work. The positive impact that we have in the places we do business will always be one of the most important services we o er.
For the West Alabama community, Wednesday, October 8 2:00 - 6:00 PM
Shelton State Community College Martin Campus
WANT A CHANCE TO WIN A FREE SEMESTER AT A LOCAL COMMUNITY COLLECE?
APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY
APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY
Applicant must be a high school or home school senior graduating Spring 2026. They must also attend WOW session for high school students on Wednesday, October 8, 2026 to enter the drawing for a scholarship.
Applicant must be a high school or home school senior graduating Spring 2026. They must also attend WOW session for high school students on Wednesday, October 8, 2026 to enter the drawing for a scholarship.
DESCRIPTION OF FUNDS
DESCRIPTION OF FUNDS
The recipient will receive a one-time nonrenewable scholarship (72 credit hours) to use during the Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 term. The recipient will have the choice to use the scholarship at Shelton State Community College, Bevill State Community College or Wallace Community College Selma.
The recipient will receive a one-time nonrenewable scholarship (72 credit hours) to use during the Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 term. The recipient will have the choice to use the scholarship at Shelton State Community College or Bevill State Community College.
WINNER SELECTION & ANNOUNCEMENTS
WINNER SELECTION & ANNOUNCEMENTS
The winner will be announced the following week and will be contacted via the email address given at the event check-in.
The winner will be announced the following week and will be contacted via the email address given at the event check-in.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF RECIPIENTS
RESPONSIBILITIES OF RECIPIENTS
The recipient must be actively enrolled at Shelton State Community College, Bevill State Community College or Wallace Community College Selma during the Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 term.
The recipient must be actively enrolled at Shelton State Community College, Wallace State Community College, and Bevill State Community College during the Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 term.
TRANSPORTATION
Careers in transportation are found in a variety of places. Everything we use is transported by roadway, railway, airway, or waterway. The level of education required varies from high school graduate to a bachelor’s degree. After successfully completing high school, some students enter directly into the workforce. Some positions, such as a mechanic, may only require on-the-job or technical training. Other careers, such as maintenance director, recruiter, safety specialist, and marketing representative, require an associate’s degree. A bachelor’s degree may be required for positions such as safety or account managers.
Careers in Transportation
$50,000- $70,000
$50,000 - $90,000
$30,000 - $50,000
Occupations listed above require a high school diploma. Some occupations may require additional on-the-job training, work experience, or certifications.
$50,000 - $110,000
Interested in attending college?
Occupations listed below require a degree from a community college or four-year university.
Career Spotlight: Diesel Mechanic
Because of their efficiency and durability, diesel engines have become the standard in powering our nation’s trucks and buses. Other heavy vehicles and mobile equipment, including bulldozers and cranes, also are powered by diesel engines, as are many commercial boats, passenger vehicles, pickups, and other work trucks. Diesel service technicians who service and repair these engines are commonly known as diesel mechanics.
Interested in Transportation? Ask companies...
What are the different career paths in transportation?
What skills are essential for success in the transportation industry?
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in transportation?
Transportation Exhibitors
Exhibitors are companies that will attend WOW. You can talk to them directly about various career opportunities in transportation.
All careers represented in this field require employees to be drug-free.
Unscramble the careers to discover high-paying, high-demand jobs in West Alabama in the industry.
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APPRENTICESHIPS AND WORK BASED LEARNING GET PAID TO LEARN A TRADE
Apprenticeships combine a full-time job with training and prepare workers to enter in-demand careers. Apprenticeships provide affordable pathways to high-paying jobs and careers without the typical student debt associated with college. More info: apprenticeshipwestalabama.com
Alabama Power Energy + Utilities
ALIGN PRECISION
Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
BF Goodrich Technical Scholar Program
Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Brose
Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
DCH Regional Medical Center
Healthcare | Hospitality + Tourism
Demopolis Fire Rescue Public Safety
Flex-N-Gate
Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Gestamp
Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Hunt Refining Company
Operations Co-Op Energy + Utilities
LAVENDER, INC.
Construction
Marathon Electric
Construction
McElroy Truck Lines
Transportation
Mercedes-Benz Industrial Maintenance Program Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Mercedes-Benz Automotive Tech Program (Advanced Automotive Technology) Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Nucor Technical Academy Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Premier Service Company
Construction
Phifer Incorporated Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Skilled Trades of West Alabama (STOWA)
Construction
TJAC Local 372 Plumbing & Pipefitters
Construction
The University of Alabama Construction | Healthcare
University of West Alabama Manufacturing | Healthcare
Warrior Met Coal Energy + Utilities
Westervelt Lumber Manufacturing | Automotive | Logistics
Meet Oscar Northridge Class of 2023, Attended WOW 2022 Premier Service Company, Electrician Apprentice
Q: What advice would you give to a student preparing to come to WOW?
“Make sure you take it seriously. It’s a big opportunity that can lead to a potential job.”
Q: What was your favorite thing about WOW?
“Meeting people from the business and making real connections. It’s great to look back and see how me and my friends gained opportunities to have early success because of WOW.”
FUNDING YOUR FUTURE
Saving for college — you can use a combination of different sources to pay for college. For example, if you have enough scholarships, grants, and savings to pay for your college costs, you may not need to borrow through student loans, or you may need to borrow less money.
SCHOLARSHIPS
CO-OPS APPRENTICESHIPS
SAVINGS
EARNED MONEY
(Such as work-study, work based learning or other employment)
GRANTS FAFSA
STUDENT LOANS
Ways to fund your educational journey:
APPRENTICESHIPS are paid experiences that often lead to full-time employment. The training typically combines classroom learning with hands-on work.
CO-OPS are programs that balance classroom theory with periods of practical, hands-on experience prior to graduation. Students are able to alternate academic study with full-time employment, gaining practical experience in their field of study.
EARNED MONEY is income gained by working part or full time jobs.
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Colleges use FAFSA data to determine a student’s federal aid eligibility.
GRANTS are money for college that do not have to be paid back, as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. A grant is usually provided by the state or federal government.
SAVINGS is money an individual has saved to put towards costs for school.
SCHOLARSHIPS are a form of gift aid that doesn’t have to be repaid and can be used to cover tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, and more.
STUDENT LOANS is money borrowed for college that students must pay back—even if they don’t graduate.
WORK-STUDY is a part-time job for students that is usually on campus and has flexible hours that generally work around a student’s class schedule.
PREPARING YOUR PATH
Explore at your school. Talk with your counselor.
Study hard and do your best to achieve good grades.
Browse the web. There are many funding opportunities available for students. Be involved and engaged in your community and with the things you’re passionate about.
Search your community for credit unions, civic groups, parents’ employers, religious organizations, local businesses, etc. who offer opportunities for scholarships.
START EARLY
Whether it’s saving for college, selecting the right classes in high school, applying for scholarships, or researching college costs, the earlier you start, the more prepared you will be. If you haven’t started already, start today.
EDUCATE YOURSELF
There’s plenty of bad information out there and financial aid rules can change from year to year. For more information, ask a reputable source like a school counselor or college representative.
MAKE A PLAN
Creating a plan for tackling scholarships, completing the FAFSA application, saving, and doing well in school gives you the chance to openly discuss ideas and share the responsibility. Remember your community is behind you and will support your education and career path.
FIND SUPPORT
Perhaps most importantly, never give up. Not every scholarship will work in your favor. Being able to bounce back is the key to succeeding. Nobody’s first attempt at a scholarship essay is perfect. If you need help, your english teachers, career coaches, college advisors, and scholarship coordinators can help you along the way.
The Phifer Story
In 1952, J. Reese Phifer, our founder, established Phifer Incorporated as a weaver of aluminum insect screening. Our family-owned and operated company has since become a leading manufacturer of innovative, precision-woven metals and textiles as well as coated yarns and related materials for filtration, reinforcement, ventilation and a variety of other industrial applications. Phifer’s weaving expertise has broadened over the years, allowing our company to enter and flourish in the sun control fabrics and outdoor designed fabrics industries, both domestically and internationally. Our products and workforce reflect the diversity and commitment to customer service expected in today’s marketplace.
Employee Benefits
Tuscaloosa,
Career Opportunities
From production to management, Phifer’s employees play an integral role in the world-class manufacturing of our products. Phifer dedicates resources, provides training and fosters communication to create an environment in which each employee can contribute their skills, talents, and ideas to a never-ending process of improvement, problem solving and innovation. An equal opportunity employer, Phifer offers an excellent benefits package to eligible full-time employees.
• Free On-site Medical Clinic, Pharmacy, Chiropractic, Imaging and Physical Therapy
• Vacation and Holidays
• Veteran Preference
Scan this QR code to view career opportunities on our website.
Build Your Future. Protect What Matters. Power Communities.
At Jackson Security Services, Buford Locksmith, and Premier Service Company, we believe in more than just providing services; we believe in creating peace of mind. From safeguarding families and businesses, to keeping homes comfortable year-round, and delivering dependable solutions for large-scale commercial projects, our work makes a lasting impact every day.
We’re proud to be more than service providers — we’re partners in protection, comfort, and progress. Built on a foundation of integrity and expertise, our companies are committed to serving both homeowners and businesses with excellence that stands the test of time.
Where Reliability Meets Integrity.
For decades, our names have stood for dependability and care. Whether it’s reliable security, fast locksmith solutions, or expert home services, Jackson Security Services, Buford Locksmith, and Premier Service Company are united by one mission: making life safer, easier, and more comfortable for the people we serve.
