The Alabama Workforce Council met for the first time on Monday in the state Capitol. Alabama Power External Affairs Executive Vice President Zeke Smith was appointed chairman of the 31-member council by Gov. Robert Bentley.

Bentley opened the meeting by thanking the members of the council, which includes leaders from all aspects of business, industry, government and education. Bentley spoke of the importance of bringing diverse groups together for the common good of the state.

“During a recent trip to the United Kingdom to recruit aerospace industries, Alabama was the only state who had the vision and forethought to bring some of our top education representatives with us,” Bentley said. “Alabama has the best workforce training of any state in our country and it’s going to get better because of what this council will accomplish.”

Smith discussed the advisory duties of the council, which include reviewing ways to streamline and align the existing workforce development functions of the state, evaluating ways to increase awareness and educate students on opportunities in the industry sectors, and evaluating partnerships to create industry-funded scholarships for community colleges, vocational schools and dual enrollment programs.

“None of us can do this alone, but you can accomplish much with the power of many,” Smith said. “I am excited to work with all of you to take the bar that’s been set and raise it higher.”

The members of the council discussed challenges the state faces in meeting demand for qualified workers in skilled crafts. Many members agreed that a major concern is the lack of knowledge for both students and parents about careers in the industry sector. “We must continue to work together to develop ways to educate others about skilled trades,” Smith said.

The governor said it is important to persuade more students that skilled crafts lead to career jobs that pay well. “With the help of this council, I know the greatest days of Alabama are still ahead,” Bentley said.

The council will meet again in August and have regular meetings through the remainder of 2014.