Guest Blog: How the Athens State Career Center is Driving Opportunity in North Alabama

I know now that I was destined to be a history teacher. I loved the period between the Missouri Compromise (in 1820) and the election of Abraham Lincoln (in 1860). And I would really like to believe that I had many students over the years who came to love the past, too. At least some told me then…and many have told me that long after graduation. 

But I didn’t just read history books and lounge by the pool during summer breaks, I always worked. And those jobs were backbreaking. I worked landscaping and became a world champion shoveler and sod layer. We usually logged 12+ hour days, 6 days a week. I was THE pipe crew helping a contractor put in underground utilities and fire hydrants. (There was exactly one employee, me) I also did construction and demolition. 

I did anything I could to make a dollar to offset my tuition as I went back to grad school. I ended up with a master’s in American History and a doctoral degree in Leadership and Professional Practice. 

I loved school and became a doctor. My brother hated school and was three times smarter than me. (He became a very successful farmer) The longer I taught, I increasingly saw kids like my brother sitting in rows in front of me. Tons of potential and talents, but maybe not being plugged into the right situations and places. I tried to cultivate their interests and connect with them…because I wasn’t just that weird old history teacher, I had real world experience in the workforce. 

Until recently, there really hasn’t been a place to send those students to get them help in entering the workforce. Thankfully, our state is working to change that with Workforce Alabama, a project to coordinate and grow workforce readiness. They have partnered with Athens State University to open The Career Center. 

The Career Center will help with resume development, job placement services, educational and vocational training, and employment screening. It will be a place to launch students to new careers and relaunch those looking to redefine and grow their career goals. 

Workforce Secretary Greg Reed noted that the Athens State Career Center will help “benefit residents and employers and will help provide necessary resources, direction, and assistance to enhance the area’s economy and development.”

I still personally believe that an understanding of the Kansas-Nebraska Act (1854) is pretty important…but finding ways to get the people and students in North Alabama career and workforce ready is really why we are there in the first place.

The Career Center is located in Chasteen Hall on the campus of Athens State University and is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

About the Author: Chris Paysinger

Sometimes, the need for a solution shows up and becomes impossible to ignore.  For Elizabeth and Mike Webb, it showed up on sidewalks, in grocery stores, and around town in Florence, Alabama, where people would stop them in public to ask about suspicious spots on their skin. Mike, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, had spent 30 years treating patients in North Alabama. He had also seen the consequences of delayed care up close: skin cancers that might have been caught earlier, treated sooner, and become far less serious. But with dermatologist shortages and long wait times, many people simply could not get answers fast enough. In their Florence clinic, patients sometimes waited as long as 12 weeks for an appointment.

This was a growing need that had to be addressed.

When telehealth began expanding during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Webbs saw an opportunity to do something practical and potentially life-saving. They created CheckMySpot, a hybrid mobile app designed to help people get potentially serious skin lesions evaluated and get treatment sooner. What started as a response to a real healthcare gap became a mission-driven business built in the Shoals.

For Elizabeth, the company’s roots in Florence are part of the story. She and Mike have lived there for 30 years. They built their dermatology practice there, raised their children there, and chose to launch their next chapter there too.

“The Shoals felt like the natural choice,” she said, pointing to a community where neighbors show up, leaders make introductions, and people rally around ideas that solve real problems.

Like many entrepreneurs, the Webbs did not build alone. In the early days of CheckMySpot, the Singing River Trail Launch Tank competition became a turning point. At the time, the company was still young, and the learning curve was steep. But stepping onto that stage helped sharpen their message and strengthen their confidence. More than that, Singing River Trail Launch Tank opened doors. As Elizabeth put it, “Launch Tank was a catapult—connecting us with people who were not only willing, but genuinely excited to help us move our mission forward: getting serious skin cancers to treatment sooner.”

Since then, the company’s journey has taken them far beyond what they expected. They’ve made podcast appearances in New York City and attended national conferences and client meetings across the country. CheckMySpot has also earned national recognition, including Innovator of the Year at the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchasers Coalition’s Annual Forum. But at its heart, the company remains focused on one simple goal: helping people get care sooner. Perhaps that is what makes the CheckMySpot story so inspiring for other founders in North Alabama. Elizabeth offers this reminder: “You don’t have to be early in your career to build something meaningful.” In a region where innovation and community go hand in hand, CheckMySpot is proof that a powerful idea can grow from local experience and become something that changes lives.

EvaLux Charging began with a simple but powerful idea: EV charging in North Alabama could be better. What began as a response to inconvenient and inconsistent charging options has grown into a vision for premium, reliable EV experiences.

Charles Manns is the Founder & CEO of EvaLux Charging, North Alabama’s first premium EV charging experience. EvaLux isn’t just about plugging in your car. It’s about transforming what charging looks and feels like.

From Frustration to Innovation

The Singing River Trail Launch Tank Effect

Why North Alabama?

More Than a Charging Station

Looking Ahead

Space Command Coming to Huntsville: How Local Small Businesses Can Turn Momentum into Opportunity

U.S. Space Command is moving to Huntsville—and that momentum creates real opportunity for entrepreneurs. In this guest blog, the Huntsville Chamber shares how small businesses can plug into the region’s growing defense and innovation ecosystem and position themselves for growth.

The arrival of U.S. Space Command in Huntsville reinforces what the community has long known: this region is built for mission-driven innovation. Space Command strengthens Huntsville’s identity as The Rocket City by anchoring a critical national security mission in a place that combines space and missile defense expertise, strong civic leadership, and a mature business, government, community ecosystem.

That mission-driven focus creates meaningful opportunities for local founders, particularly in the development of dual-use technologies that can scale across both defense and commercial markets. Huntsville has been intentional about building pathways to support this work through resources such as the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s (UAH) Invention to Innovation Center (I²C), the Cummings Research Park DefenseTech Accelerator, the Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship’s Government Contracting Center, the APEX Accelerator, and other community organizations. As prime contractors and government agencies increasingly seek faster, more modular capabilities, small and non-traditional tech companies are well positioned to serve as agile problem-solvers. Through subcontracting, applied research and development, and engagement with accelerators, the Chamber’s monthly programming, the SBDC’s annual Matchmaker, Government organizations small business days, and networking organizations such as HASBAT (among many others), these companies can gain direct access to federal agencies, prime contractors, and investors, creating clear on-ramps to growth and long-term participation in the Space Command ecosystem.

This activity also accelerates applied research across aerospace, defense, cybersecurity, and adjacent fields such as biotechnology. Huntsville’s research infrastructure is uniquely positioned to operate across technology readiness levels and close mission-critical capability gaps. Universities, like UAH and Alabama A&M University (AAMU), and research institutions, like HudsonAlpha, play a central role by providing tailored research capacity and cultivating talent pipelines. Looking ahead, employers and educators should prepare for sustained demand for STEM talent, particularly in science, engineering, and cyber, with a growing emphasis on mission-ready skills aligned to federal and industry needs.

While Space Command’s presence is rooted in defense and national security, its influence extends well beyond those sectors. Growth in employment also drives expansion in housing, healthcare, childcare, professional services, and STEM education, strengthening the foundational industries that support a thriving workforce.

To fully realize these benefits, local businesses are encouraged to engage by plugging into Chamber and community events, tracking emerging space and defense needs, and positioning their offerings as clear, testable solutions that can scale. As a community, Huntsville will continue to strengthen entrepreneur pipelines and invest in STEM talent development. Together, these efforts ensure that Space Command’s arrival not only advances a national mission but also fuels sustained opportunity, innovation, and growth for Huntsville’s small businesses and entrepreneurs.

*Contacts for organizations mentioned in this article can be found on the Chamber’s Small Business Resource page.

When Walter and Janelle Jaeger founded Jaeger Technology Group in Decatur, Alabama, they set out to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. What began as a small workshop focused on large-format 3D printing has quickly evolved into a regional leader in advanced manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and biomedical research.

JaegerTech is proving that local ingenuity can drive global impact, using advanced 3D printing and design to create everything from aerospace components and industrial tools to innovative biomedical devices – all built in the heart of North Alabama.

After decades of working with major manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, and medical industries, Walter realized he wanted to create a company that worked directly with customers and turn ideas into real-world solutions.

JaegerTech’s portfolio is full of stories that show what happens when cutting-edge technology meets Southern ingenuity. Their projects range from lightweight polymer tooling for Alabama foundries to advanced 3D-printed systems that improve equine health.

The Jaegers’ say one of their proudest ventures so far is their low-cost bioprinter project, developed in partnership with Alabama universities. The system uses dual printheads for hydrogels and UV-crosslinking, giving students and researchers access to technology that will soon be commonplace in labs worldwide. Several biomedical companies are already exploring ways to use the systems for surgical modeling and pathology research.

But their impact doesn’t stop there. Jaeger Technology Group is playing a role in helping industries innovate more efficiently, especially at a time when global supply chains face constant challenges. With tariffs, shipping delays, and overseas bottlenecks disrupting operations, JaegerTech is helping companies stay agile through local production and rapid iteration.

One client, for example, couldn’t source gaskets for a new water pipe reducer. The JaegerTech team measured, redesigned, and 3D-printed a dozen prototypes, then built molds to cast the final parts in urethane. The result? Hundreds of thousands of dollars saved and months of downtime avoided.

“That’s our niche,” Walter said. “Listen closely, move quickly, and deliver results that matter.”

For the Jaegers, the decision to set up shop in Decatur was both strategic and personal.

“From the first time we visited North Alabama, we knew this was home,” Walter said. “Between the Robotics Technology Park in Tanner and the incredible talent pool across the region, this is one of the best places in the country to grow a high-tech business.”

The Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center (E-Center) played a pivotal role in helping JaegerTech expand. After connecting with E-Center director John Joseph, the company found the space, stability, and support to grow sustainably.

“The E-Center team doesn’t just talk about helping entrepreneurs. They show up when you need them,” Walter added.

What’s most striking about North Alabama’s entrepreneurial community, according to the Jaegers, is the culture of collaboration.

“Coming from larger cities, I expected more competition and isolation. Instead, we found a community that genuinely wants small businesses to thrive,” Janelle said. “People here share contacts, advice, and encouragement, it’s a place that believes in rising together.”

The culture of collaboration combined with the region’s technical expertise has made North Alabama a magnet for innovation-driven companies like Jaeger Technology Group.

JaegerTech’s long-term vision is to make North Alabama a recognized hub for advanced manufacturing and biomedical innovation. Through partnerships with regional universities and continued investment in STEM education, the company is training the next generation of designers, engineers, and makers.

“We’re proud of Alabama’s foundry heritage,” Walter said. “3D printing is the next chapter in that story.” The Jaegers’ advice to others in the region? Do your research, know your market, and then go for it.

“This region offers world-class resources and a community that wants you to succeed,” Janelle said. “Bring passion, persistence, and humility, and you’ll find North Alabama is one of the best places in the country to start a business.”

About Jaeger Technology Group

Learn more

When Sherry Jefferson thinks back on her childhood in Athens, Alabama, one memory shines brighter than most: the tradition of birthday candles. Her mother always made sure each of her children had a candle glowing on top of their birthday treat. This small act became a family tradition. Even after her mother passed away in 2014, Sherry and her siblings continued the tradition of mailing candles across state lines to celebrate one another’s birthdays.

In 2020, the pandemic almost led to ending their tradition, but Sherry had an idea. “Have no fear,” she told her siblings, “I’ll make the candles this year.” What began as a way to keep her family’s memory alive sparked a much bigger flame. That spark became Flirty Flame Candle Company, a North Alabama business built on community and the power of fragrance to unlock forgotten memories.

At first, Sherry laughed at herself. “I’m not a candle person,” she admitted. But as she experimented with scents, she realized fragrance was something she cherished. One whiff of sweet pipe tobacco brought her back to her grandfather’s lap, watching Alabama football games. Honeysuckle instantly transported her to her grandmother’s backyard.

Those moments fueled her passion. Sherry began sharing her candles at farmer’s markets, vendor fairs, and through a mobile candle bar at community events. Soon, people in Athens recognized her on the street as “the candle lady.”

Since then, her business has grown. She now also offers wax melts, room sprays, reed diffusers, and body oils. At every step, her goal of creating quality products that spark joy and memories has remained the same.

In 2023, Sherry heard about the Singing River Trail Launch Tank Competition. With encouragement from her daughter, she applied and was accepted as a finalist. Sherry got on stage and pitched her idea for a mobile candle bar that could bring fragrance and fun directly to her community. The experience wasn’t without its challenges. On competition day, her presentation was interrupted by a malfunctioning clicker. “I can’t believe I was taken out of this competition by a clicker!” she recalled. But she persevered, leaning on the encouragement she’d received from the Launch Box team in Athens and the confidence she had built while preparing. When the winners were announced, Sherry’s name was called for first place. She was stunned. “I could not believe I won, after all of that!”

For Sherry, the Launch Tank competition provided her prize money, amplified her business, gave her confidence. “It gave me the push I needed to make myself more visible in the community,” she said. “The resources and encouragement from the Launch Box team and the Chamber of Commerce were monumental.”

The exposure led to new opportunities. Her products have been displayed in storefront windows downtown, she’s participated in speaking engagements, and she has gained partnerships with local organizations.

Today, Sherry remains passionate about making her community even better as an ambassador for the Singing River Trail. She continues to grow her product line, testing wooden wick candles, soaps, and all-purpose cleaners. She also gives back to her community, hosting events like Candles, Cocktails, and Cowgirls to raise money for local scholarships.

Through it all, she’s guided by advice from her grandmother: “Find something you love to do and figure out a way to get paid for it. You’ll always have a job.” Launch gave Sherry the tools, visibility, and confidence to grow Flirty Flame Candle Company, but it was her determination, creativity, and focus that kept the flame alive. As Sherry puts it: “I don’t know exactly where we’re going next, but I do know this — I’m going to enjoy the ride. And it’s going to be lit.”

Flipping the Script: How Flip Out 19 is Making an Impact in Decatur

He noticed a gap. High school cheerleaders needed tumbling and stunting skills, and kids in local dance classes needed extra tumbling experience. Flip Out 19 filled that niche and quickly became a go-to training ground for young athletes in the area.

Today, Flip Out 19 operates five days a week, offering a joyful and supportive environment that keeps kids coming back year after year. Athletes who have grown up in the program value the close-knit, uplifting culture Coach Michael has created.

Parents also recognize the impact the gym has made. They see Flip Out 19 as part of a larger small business ecosystem in Decatur – one that thrives on community support and creates lasting value for families.

Today, Flip Out 19 operates five days a week, offering a joyful and supportive environment that keeps kids coming back year after year. Athletes who have grown up in the program value the close-knit, uplifting culture Coach Michael has created.

Parents also recognize the impact the gym has made. They see Flip Out 19 as part of a larger small business ecosystem in Decatur – one that thrives on community support and creates lasting value for families.

Launch’s Entrepreneurship Pillar is proud to support business owners like Michael who are turning their ideas into sustainable ventures. By equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and connections they need to grow, Launch helps create more opportunities across the region.

For Michael, that support has meant greater success and deeper roots in the community he loves.

Turning a Reluctant Start into a Powerful Calling

What began as reluctant entrepreneurship has since grown into a thriving business. Face To Face Marketing helps small businesses craft consistent, professional branding through social media management, website design, graphic design, and communications support. Starting a business in North Alabama wasn’t easy. “This is a relationship-driven region, and I didn’t have a network,” Morris explains. But she leveraged her natural ability to connect, slowly building trust by joining organizations, serving in leadership roles, and focusing on authentic relationships.

Today, she runs multiple marketing ventures and leads RISE Networking, a relationship-focused community for innovators. She credits North Alabama’s entrepreneurial ecosystem for much of her success. “If you’re willing to serve and show up, this community meets you with opportunity,” she says.

For Morris, entrepreneurship has been the hardest, most rewarding journey of her life. “Now, I get to work with organizations that align with my values and contribute to the economic engine of our community. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Learn more about Vicki Morris and how she is impacting North Alabama at vreneeconsulting.com.