University of Montevallo Recognized at Shelby County Chamber Workforce Development Luncheon

September 10, 2026

The Shelby County Chamber recognized the University of Montevallo as an honoree in industry and innovation at its luncheon highlighting notable businesses and organizations at its Workforce Development Luncheon.

UM was celebrated side-by-side with Jefferson State Community College among local industry partners for its role in educating and developing the next generation of workforce employees and leadership. The Shelby County Chamber specifically highlighted UM’s role in healthcare leadership by enhancing the training provided to students with leading-edge technology in the classroom and clinical experience in real-world settings.

“The University of Montevallo is proud to be recognized among industry partners as a leader in workforce development,” said UM President Michelle Johnston. “Preparing our students for meaningful employment is part of our institutional mission and we’re constantly seeking innovative ways to connect our students with business and industry partners.”

The Shelby County Chamber also highlighted the University’s use of Handshake, the career networking and job search app, to connect current students and alumni with business partners in Shelby County through the Career Development Center.

In addition, UM features the Falcon Scholars in Action program, a service-learning program that places students in agencies and programs throughout Shelby County to gain credible experience and training beneficial toward their degree or professional goals while serving the needs of our community.

The Career Development Center provides additional guidance on career planning, including a personalized career action plan, and highlights opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience through an online job listing board.

The University was noted alongside businesses and organizations for these specific initiatives along with several more efforts, including:

• investment in Shelby County and our communities providing continued growth and prosperity
• outstanding employment opportunities for our future workforce
• innovative and interesting products and services sold around the nation and world from Shelby County
• talented corporate leadership and technical talent in advanced manufacturing, automotive supply, biotechnology, professional business services (B2B), software and more

Established in 1896 as the Alabama Girls’ Industrial School, the mission of Alabama’s public liberal arts University is to develop the next generation of leaders, innovators and professionals.