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Sponsor and exhibitor registration is now open for Worlds of Work (WOW) 2026, a nationally recognized, hands-on career exploration experience that introduces more than 4,000 students annually to career opportunities throughout West Alabama. This year’s event will be held Wednesday, October 14, and Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Shelton State Community College’s Martin Campus.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Worlds of Work, celebrating a decade of connecting students with careers, strengthening partnerships between education and industry, and preparing West Alabama’s future workforce. Each year, WOW brings together hundreds of businesses, industries, educators and community partners to provide students with an interactive look at careers available throughout the region.

Businesses and organizations are invited to be part of this year’s milestone event as sponsors and exhibitors. Exhibitors provide hands-on experiences that allow students to explore different industries and interact directly with professionals, while sponsors help make the event possible and support its mission of strengthening West Alabama’s workforce.

“As we celebrate 10 years of WOW, we are grateful for the employers, sponsors and community partners who have helped make this experience possible and look forward to another year of connecting students with opportunities throughout West Alabama,” said NaTa’sha D. Black, Senior Director of Workforce and Lead Modern Manufacturing Project Manager.

Businesses and organizations interested in participating in WOW 2026 can learn more and register using the links below:

Sponsor Registration
Exhibitor Registration

Exhibitors are encouraged to register by August 17 to ensure inclusion in the WOW 2026 event book. Exhibitor registration will remain open after this date; however, registrations received after August 17 may not be included in the printed event materials.

Since its launch in 2015 by West Alabama Works and The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, Worlds of Work has grown into a nationally recognized model for workforce development. The continued support of industry and community partners has helped WOW connect thousands of students with career opportunities and build stronger connections between education and industry throughout West Alabama.

For more information, contact NaTa’sha D. Black at natasha@westalabamachamber.com.

About West Alabama Works

The Region 3 West Alabama Works Council, in partnership with The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, leads workforce development efforts throughout West Alabama. Together, we facilitate and implement a comprehensive, coordinated, and seamless workforce development system for the region and support workforce training activities. With a mission to promote regional economic prosperity by providing support services to both employers and job seekers, West Alabama Works serves as the central hub for workforce development efforts and training.

Photo: 2024 Worlds of Work (WOW) | Source: West Alabama Works