Power in Partnerships in Prattville, AL
Initiatives empower local students to kick-start careers in the region.
Educational institutions are expanding their presence in Prattville, creating new opportunities for local students to start promising careers.
Central Alabama Community College (CACC) has sprung into action with its new, innovative campus in Prattville. CACC has served Autauga County since 2018 from its Pratt’s Mill Shopping Center location; however, with increased enrollment and limited space, the Autauga County Commission and Prattville City Council gave unanimous approval to create a more expansive facility. The sprawling 50,000-square-foot facility sits on 124 acres of land and is a permanent home to CACC in Autauga County.
Dual Enrollment
A partnership between CACC and Autauga County Schools offers dual enrollment opportunities in STEM, welding, medical assisting technology, computer information science, general business, office administration and general studies.
“These programs provide both traditional instruction as well as hands-on learning opportunities in lab settings. Students are often taking classes on the college campus or online with other college students, learning from college professors,” says Brandy Mitchell, associate dean and Prattville campus administrator. “These programs have the same rigor and expectations as any college class, giving students an introduction to what college is like and preparing them for their futures.”
Whether students are interested in a career technical two-year program or a four-year degree, dual enrollment prepares them for the transition from high school to college and gives them a head start on their futures, she says.
“Dual enrollment scholarships are available, so many students don’t have any out-of-pocket costs for these college courses. We like to partner with our school systems on sharing career opportunities with the students and their parents. We are always meeting and striving to offer our schools the very best in education and workforce training.”
Brandy Mitchell, Associate Dean and Prattville Campus Administrator
Investing in a Tech-Savvy Workforce
In March 2022, city, county and community officials broke ground on the Autauga County Technology Center’s (ACTC) 18,290-square-foot expansion project.
The expansion project offers local students new opportunities for dual career and technical education enrollment. Programs at ACTC include career paths in the automotive industry, welding, fire science and health science.
In February 2023, the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce showcased ACTC with an open house. Thanks to the expansion project, the open house featured the hands-on resources that high school students will have access to. The partnership with Autauga County Schools and the Autauga County Technology Center will introduce students to lucrative industries, ultimately paving the way to successful career paths.
Get to Know Prattville
Want to learn more about living and working in Prattville, AL? Check out the latest edition of Livability Prattville, AL.