Worlds of Work (WOW) is a nationally recognized, hands-on career exploration event that introduces more than 4,000 students to high-demand, high-wage career opportunities across West Alabama annually. Held over two days on the campus of Shelton State Community College, WOW transforms the space into an interactive showcase of the region’s most competitive industries.

Through engaging, real-world demonstrations led by local employers and professionals, students gain a deeper understanding of potential career paths and the skills required to succeed. Hundreds of industry partners participate, using this opportunity to connect with the next generation of workers and inspire interest in their fields.

The Worlds of Work Career Expo is a collaborative initiative led by West AlabamaWorks, the Region 3 Workforce Development Board, and The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. This high-energy, hands-on event offers students, educators, and community members a dynamic opportunity to explore high-demand, high-wage careers across the region.

The goal of the Expo is to raise awareness of exciting career paths while helping to address critical workforce challenges facing our region. With many local employers struggling to fill job openings due to a shortage of skilled workers—and with up to 50% of the workforce expected to retire in the coming years—this event serves as a vital bridge between industry and the future workforce.

Open to all residents of West Alabama’s nine-county workforce region—Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter, and Tuscaloosa—the Expo plays a key role in building a stronger, more prepared workforce for generations to come.