Mays named to workforce council
Gov. Robert Bentley held a ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 217, which creates the new Alabama Workforce Council, on Monday in Decatur at Nucor Corporation.
Bentley has named Zeke Smith, Alabama Power Company Executive Vice President of External Affairs, as chairman of the council. Bentley also named former Phil Campbell mayor Jerry Mays as a member of the Council.
“Gov. Bentley has made job creation his number one priority and the establishment of the Alabama Workforce Council will greatly assist in the state’s efforts to make sure Alabama has the skilled workers needed to recruit new industries and help existing industries expand,” Alabama Republican Party chairman Bill Armistead said.
“I commend the governor for his selection of Jerry Mays to serve on this very important council. The governor and the people of Alabama have gained a great asset in having Jerry on this council. Unfortunately, the time required for Jerry to serve on the Council has caused him to step down as the party’s candidate for Senate District 6. This is a win-win situation for the governor and the people of Alabama as Jerry will be a very effective member of this council.”
Mays is the immediate past mayor of Phil Campbell and was serving in April 2011 when the massive tornado struck Phil Campbell where 28 fatalities were recorded. He also is the current chairman of the Franklin County Republican Party.
“I have worked closely with Jerry since the tornado struck Phil Campbell on April 27, 2011 and was impressed with the way Jerry responded to this devastation,” Bentley said.
“Jerry’s service as a rural mayor, along with his extensive business experience, makes him an excellent choice to serve on this council. I know he will be a tremendous asset as we work together to prepare a skilled workforce to fill the jobs being created in Alabama”.
The Alabama Workforce Council will advise the state’s two-year college chancellor and state school superintendent on policies and programs affecting workforce development.
“One of the recommendations of my College and Career Ready Task Force, created last year, was the development of a statewide workforce council of business and industry leaders who will advise educators and colleges on the workforce needs and the types of jobs needed in Alabama,” Bentley said.
“There is nothing more important than job creation, and having a skilled workforce is one of the biggest components to economic development.”
