The Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s community resource development (CRD) team at Alabama A&M University (AAMU) received a $400,000 Capacity Building Grant from the US Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA). The funding will expand Upward Alabama Phase II, an innovative workforce and entrepreneurship initiative powered by artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and virtual reality (VR) technologies.

Building on the success of the original Upward Alabama project, Phase II will expand the program’s reach into Dallas, Lowndes, and Macon counties. The goal is to create more equitable local economies where income and opportunity are more evenly distributed across social groups.

Transforming Workforce Training

Upward Alabama Phase II is distinguished by its technology-first approach, integrating VR, AI, and ML into workforce education. The program offers self-paced, virtual training where participants engage in immersive, real-world simulations for both career and business development.

Participants will use these tools to accomplish the following:

• Practice job skills in virtual environments.
• Build confidence through hands-on, simulated experiences.
• Prepare for industry-recognized credentials aligned with in-demand careers.

AI and ML technologies enhance the learning experience by delivering personalized training pathways. In addition, participants build marketable skills for today’s workforce.

Community Partnerships are Key

Partnerships with community-based organizations are key to reaching local audiences. County-based support hubs will provide participants with access to technology, mentorship, and hands-on assistance. In other words, the initiative is designed to support—not compete with—existing local programs. Upward Alabama Phase II will enhance current community services by offering new tools, technologies, and additional resources.

Building Skills, Careers, and Businesses

The Go-Getter Pathways program will use the Upward Alabama Phase II technologies—AI, ML, and VR—to prepare up to 300 participants for success in employment and entrepreneurship.

• The Go-Getter Career Pathway focuses on job readiness, resume development, interview skills, workplace success, and earning industry-recognized micro-credentials tied to Alabama’s workforce needs.
• The Go-Getter Entrepreneur Pathway supports aspiring business owners with training in business modeling, market identification, sales strategies, and operations, as well as access to capital.

Participants will also receive one-on-one support, mentorship, and job or business referrals through a strong network of community colleges, nonprofits, and workforce partners.

Expanding Opportunity

Upward Alabama Phase II represents more than a program—it represents a shift in how Alabama Extension connects people to opportunity. For example, the project includes a robust research component that will:

• Build capacity for AAMU, partners, and industry leaders to implement VR and AI in workforce education.
• Provide insights for scaling technology-driven workforce programs across 1890 land-grant institutions.
• Evaluate long-term outcomes from prior program participants.

Additionally, new Go-Getter partner hubs will be established in Dallas, Lowndes, and Macon counties. At least 15 partner organizations will collaborate to expand access to opportunity and promote equitable hiring and contracting practices.

Driving Measurable Outcomes

Upward Alabama Phase II aims to achieve meaningful, measurable impact, which includes the following:

• Increased income through employment or entrepreneurship.
• Sustained employment or self-employment.
• Reduced reliance on government assistance.
• Expanded access to skills and credentials for career advancement.

A Vision for Inclusive Innovation

The Alabama Extension CRD team at AAMU continues to grow; its impact is far-reaching—touching individuals, families, and entire communities. By combining cutting-edge technology with strong, local partnerships, Upward Alabama Phase II offers a model for inclusive, community-centered economic development.

While Phase II expands into Dallas, Lowndes, and Macon counties, other participating counties include Jefferson, Madison, Mobile, and Montgomery. Organizations, agencies, and community programs interested in partnering in those locations are encouraged to connect with Community and Economic Development Specialist Terence Norwood at 256-372-5023 or tpn0004@aces.edu.

This work is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, 1890 Capacity Building Grants Program, award #2025-38821-45441.