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Workforce Secretary Greg Reed Names Meredith Smith as Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship – Workforce Alabama 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 17, 2025
Workforce Secretary Greg Reed Names Meredith Smith as Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship
MONTGOMERY – Alabama Department of Workforce Secretary Greg Reed appointed Meredith Smith as the Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship (AOA) on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
“I’m pleased to elevate Meredith Smith to the role of AOA Director,” said Reed. “She has spent many years dedicating herself to furthering our mission to improve Alabama’s workforce and to make our economy the best it can be. She brings drive and commitment to the agency, and we are all lucky to have her here.”
Smith previously served as the Assistant Director of the AOA. In her role at the organization, she leads efforts to expand apprenticeship as a strategic workforce solution across the state. With a strong focus on outcomes rather than inputs, the AOA works to connect Alabamians with the skills they need to meet employer demands and build successful, long-term careers.
“I am honored and excited to step into the role of Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship. I look forward to partnering with our employers and communities to expand apprenticeship opportunities that build a stronger workforce, drive economic growth, and create lasting pathways to success for Alabama’s citizens,” said Smith.
The AOA collaborates closely with employers to design and implement training programs that address critical workforce gaps, including the certification of high-quality pre-apprenticeship programs, ensuring they align with industry standards and provide clear pathways to employment.
A former educator, Smith brings a deep commitment to learning and career development. She leads statewide initiatives to identify and scale effective work-based learning strategies that support both workers and employers.
Smith replaces former Director Josh Laney, who recently retired after serving as Director for six years. Smith is a graduate of the University of Montevallo and lives in Birmingham with her family.
Last year’s “Working for Alabama” legislation brought the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship under the umbrella of the Alabama Department of Workforce.
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