Key Takeaways
- The Alabama Technology Network (ATN) is changing its name to the Alabama Training Network to reflect its focus on workforce development and industry support.
- The organization was formed in 1987 and has expanded its services to support employers and workers across the state.
- ATN is designated as Alabama’s official center for the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP).
- The network provides customized training, technical assistance, and engineering services to support industry needs and serves all 67 counties in Alabama.
- ATN has earned ISO 9001 certification, demonstrating its commitment to quality management and continuous improvement.
Introduction to the Alabama Training Network
The Alabama Technology Network (ATN) is set to celebrate its transition to the Alabama Training Network with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in Montgomery. This name change reflects the organization’s continued focus on workforce development and industry support, while more clearly aligning its identity with its training-driven mission to strengthen Alabama’s economy. The ceremony will take place at The Alabama Community College System, located at 135 S. Union Street, and will be followed by a reception with light refreshments in the President’s Conference Room.
History of the Alabama Technology Network
The Alabama Technology Network was formed in 1987 with the launch of five Centers of Excellence designed to address workforce needs tied to economic growth across the state. Throughout the 1990s, the network expanded its footprint, making its services more accessible to employers and workers across the state. In 1996, ATN was designated Alabama’s official center for the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). Through this program, ATN works directly with manufacturers to develop new products, improve operational efficiency, adopt advanced technologies, and strengthen supply chains. ATN continues to serve as Alabama’s MEP center and remains among the top-performing programs nationally.
Integration with the Alabama Community College System
The organization became an entity of the Alabama Community College System in 2004, further integrating its mission with statewide workforce education and economic development efforts. This integration has enabled ATN to provide more comprehensive support to industries across the state. Today, ATN operates across Alabama and serves all 67 counties, providing customized training, technical assistance, and engineering services to support industry needs. ATN’s staff is organized into specialized subject-matter teams that work directly with manufacturers to improve productivity, increase profitability, and support long-term growth.
Commitment to Quality Management and Continuous Improvement
In 2008, ATN earned ISO 9001 certification, reinforcing its commitment to quality management and continuous improvement through regular audits and ongoing evaluation of internal processes. This certification demonstrates ATN’s dedication to providing high-quality services to its clients and its commitment to continuous improvement. The network continually updates its training materials and equipment to reflect industry best practices and emerging workforce demands. This ensures that ATN’s clients receive the most up-to-date and relevant training and support, enabling them to stay competitive in their respective industries.
Transition to the Alabama Training Network
The January ribbon-cutting will formally mark the organization’s transition to the Alabama Training Network as it continues its statewide work supporting workforce training and industry development across Alabama. This name change reflects the organization’s evolving mission and its commitment to providing high-quality training and support services to industries across the state. As the Alabama Training Network, the organization will continue to provide customized training, technical assistance, and engineering services to support industry needs and drive economic growth in Alabama. With its strong track record of success and its commitment to quality management and continuous improvement, the Alabama Training Network is well-positioned to continue making a positive impact on the state’s economy and workforce.
