FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 20, 2025

Workforce Secretary Greg Reed Names Franklin Johnson as Chief of the Workforce Pathways Division

MONTGOMERY – Alabama Department of Workforce Secretary Greg Reed announced today that Franklin Johnson has been named Chief of the Workforce Pathways Division for the department.

“Franklin Johnson brings a wealth of experience to this newly created role, and I’m pleased to have him on board,” said Reed. “As we work to navigate our new workforce mission, I believe Franklin will provide positive leadership and strategic growth.”

“I am honored to be named Chief of the Alabama Workforce Pathways Division. I am incredibly excited to serve the state in this role and working with the many stakeholders involved with workforce development in Alabama. A robust workforce is a vital component to a vibrant economy. I have a lot to learn, but I look forward to helping the department relentlessly pursue its mission,” said Johnson.

The Workforce Development Division is a newly created division that centers workforce activity statewide into one central location.

A lawyer, Johnson has worked for the Alabama REALTORS® for over eight years as in-house counsel and formerly served in the Governor’s Office as deputy legal counsel and deputy chief of staff. As Chief, Johnson will oversee the functions of the department focusing on workforce development, including employment services, labor market information, apprenticeships, and STEM training. The role will involve extensive legal, policy, and government affairs components, liaising with the governor’s office, other elected officials, and legislators, as well as related stakeholders.

Johnson is a graduate of Auburn University, holding a B.A. in History, and the University of Alabama School of Law, from which he received his Juris Doctor degree.

Last year’s “Alabama Workforce Transformation Act” legislation added to and renamed the Department of Labor as the Alabama Department of Workforce.

###

Members of the media seeking more information should contact Communications Director Tara Hutchison.

An Equal Opportunity Employer / Program

Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Dial 711 for TTY Accessibility