Alabama High School Seniors Step into the Workforce at Ready to Work Regional Signing Days

Across North and Central Alabama, high school seniors, local employers, educators, and community partners came together for a different kind of celebration. Rather than committing to athletic programs or college campuses, these students signed letters of intent to begin something just as meaningful: their careers.

Hosted by Ready to Work, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by The Ōnin Group and dedicated to workforce development, Regional Signing Day honored graduating seniors entering Alabama’s workforce through full-time jobs, apprenticeships, certification programs, or associate degree paths.

Students from high schools across Limestone, Madison, and Lawrence counties in North Alabama and Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, and Shelby counties in Central Alabama were recognized in two separate Signing Day ceremonies. These events reflect a growing shift in how students and communities define success—valuing not just higher education, but also meaningful careers and active involvement in industry.

“This is a wonderful day for all of us—it’s kind of like Christmas for me,” said Hugh Thomas, Managing Partner of The Ōnin Group. “I love being around leaders and winners. Leaders are willing to take steps that others don’t. And by you guys engaging in this program, you did something that other people don’t.”

High School Ready to Work equips high school students with practical training, interview coaching, and direct connections to employers who are committed to their development. For many participants, Signing Day marks not just a first job, but the first step toward long-term personal and professional growth.

“Ready to Work has definitely helped me throughout the entire time I wanted to interview and things like that,” said a student graduate. “They had all the companies I actually wanted to work for. So that’s a plus—that’s a good opportunity.”

These Signing Day ceremonies also highlighted the vital role that Alabama employers and educators play in shaping the state’s workforce. By offering more than just jobs—by providing mentorship, training, and a path forward—these employers are helping build a talent pipeline that begins in local classrooms and extends into sustainable careers.

“We’re watching partnerships build between students and employers in real-time,” said Jessica Derrick, Talent Acquisition Manager at The Ōnin Group. “These young adults are showing up with grit, curiosity, and ambition. Alabama companies are meeting them with opportunity, investment, and belief in their potential—because that’s how real workforce transformation begins.”

Together, students, educators, and employers are redefining what it means to be career-ready—and building a more dynamic, inclusive, and resilient workforce for Alabama’s future.

If you’d like to learn more about the Ready to Work Program—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to building a pipeline of skilled workers—please visit readytowork.org.