The “Stay in Alabama” Training & Certification Initiative is a statewide workforce
development program led by the Alabama Office of Minority Affairs (AOMA). Alabama’s
economic future depends on a well-trained, certified workforce, and this initiative is designed to
equip residents with in-demand skills and industry-recognized certifications while encouraging
them to build their careers within the state. The program offers accessible training opportunities
for Alabama residents across various age groups (from high school students to working adults),
connecting participants with high-demand certifications, career-ready skills, and direct job
placement assistance in key industries such as technology, healthcare, project management, and
skilled trades.

A key element of the initiative is the PMI South Alabama Project Management Boot Camp,
which provides specialized training and sponsorship for the Certified Associate in Project
Management (CAPM®) certification. By partnering with PMI South Alabama, the program
leverages expert resources in project management training, offering participants a comprehensive
boot camp experience that includes classroom instruction, virtual learning, mentorship, and full
coverage of certification exam fees. This partnership exemplifies the initiative’s collaborative
approach – working with industry and community organizations to deliver impactful training.
In summary, the "Stay in Alabama" initiative aims to strengthen Alabama’s talent pipeline. By
aligning training with industry needs and fostering employer connections, AOMA seeks to keep
skilled talent in Alabama, supporting both the individuals in building rewarding careers and
Alabama’s employers in finding qualified local professionals. The following overview details the
program’s objectives, key components, benefits, and implementation plan.