Eastern Shore Chamber Foundation receives Innovate Alabama Network Designation

Foundation to launch paid internship program to strengthen Baldwin County Workforce Pipeline

The Eastern Shore Chamber Foundation is proud to announce the launch of a paid internship program aimed at providing high school students with hands-on career experience while addressing workforce gaps across Alabama. This initiative, supported by the Innovate Alabama Network, will connect students with semester-long internships in high-demand industries, equipping them with essential skills and real-world exposure.

The program, in partnership with leading organizations such as AIDT Maritime Training Center, and local business and industry, will offer students competitive wages of $15 per hour while they gain professional experience.

“Baldwin County CTE, and Work Based Learning are thrilled to be partners with the Eastern Shore Chamber Foundation, in receipt of the Innovate Alabama Grant, which will provide incredible opportunities for our Co-op students,” Morrell Baxter, Career and Technical Education Supervisor, said. “This funding will help us build a strong pipeline for the workforce, connecting students with real-world experience and paving the way for future career success. By investing in their growth, we're not only empowering the next generation of professionals but also meeting the evolving needs of industry and employers."

A Holistic Approach to Workforce Development

The program goes beyond technical training, integrating pre-internship workshops on workplace readiness, goal setting, and resume building. Students will gain exposure to industries including healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and business, with mentorship playing a critical role. Each intern will receive weekly guidance from industry professionals, fostering long-term career development.

“This initiative highlights the power of collaboration,” said Ashley Phillips South Assistant Director of AIDT said. “By combining expertise, resources, and perspectives, we are creating new opportunities for skill-building, innovation, and growth. Partnerships like these cultivate a workforce that is resilient, adaptable, and ready to meet the demands of our future.”

The program aligns with Innovate Alabama’s mission to drive workforce innovation and economic development across the state.

“By equipping our workforce with the resources needed to build and retain talent in Alabama, we are investing in the future of our economy,” said Cynthia Crutchfield, CEO of Innovate Alabama. “These programs are vital to developing a skilled talent pipeline and ensuring that Alabama remains competitive in an evolving job market.”

Christopher Lugo, Director of Workforce Development and Governmental Affairs for the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the program’s long-term impact on regional workforce development.

“This program is more than just an internship, it’s an investment in the future workforce of Alabama,” Lugo said. “By connecting students with meaningful, paid opportunities in high-demand fields, we are not only shaping their career paths but also ensuring that local industries have a strong, skilled talent pipeline for years to come.”

The program aims to expand access to high-demand career pathways, particularly in welding, structural fitting, and other technical fields. The expected outcomes include increased career readiness, stronger local talent retention, and a scalable workforce model that benefits Alabama’s economy.

For more information on how businesses can get involved or how students can apply, contact Christopher Lugo, at clugo@eschamber.com.