Forestry and Alabama’s Economic Development: How to Sustain Growth Through Workforce Pathways

Guest Opinion by Nicole Jones Wadsworth, PhD, MBA, MS; Site Selector, Economic Developer, and Candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Alabama

Forestry has long been an integral part of Alabama’s economy and cultural identity. With more than 23 million acres of timberland, which covers approximately 70 percent of the state’s total land area, Alabama ranks among the nation’s leaders in both timber supply and forest product manufacturing. Our state’s abundant forest resources provide environmental benefits and serve as a foundation for economic development and workforce opportunity.

Economic Impact

The forestry sector contributes an estimated $28 billion annually to Alabama’s economy and supports tens of thousands of jobs across the value chain. From timber harvesting and primary processing to advanced manufacturing and bio-based innovation, forestry represents a critical economic engine—particularly in rural counties, where mills and logging operations are often among the largest employers and tax revenue generators.

Global market trends further underscore Alabama’s competitive advantage. The growing demand for renewable building materials, sustainable paper products, and biomass energy positions our state to expand its presence in both domestic and international markets. Unlike cyclical industries that may relocate, forestry’s renewability and reliance on local land ownership ensure that its benefits remain deeply rooted in Alabama’s communities.

Career Pathways – Workforce Development

The breadth of forestry-related careers provides opportunities across a range of skills and education levels. Key pathways include:

• Forest Management and Conservation – Professional foresters and conservation scientists manage timber resources while balancing ecological considerations such as wildlife habitat, soil health, and water quality.
• Logging and Operations – Skilled equipment operators and technicians play a central role in modern timber harvesting, utilizing advanced machinery and safety practices.
• Wood Products Manufacturing – Alabama’s network of sawmills, pulp and paper facilities, and engineered wood plants requires a workforce of millwrights, electricians, engineers, and production managers.
• Sustainability and Environmental Science – Careers are emerging in areas such as carbon accounting, biomass energy, and sustainable supply chain management, which align with global shifts toward renewable resources.
• Research and Technology – The integration of drones, satellite imaging, and geospatial data analytics has created opportunities for professionals in applied sciences and information technology.

This range of career options demonstrates that forestry is a multidimensional field that encompasses traditional skills, technical trades, and knowledge-driven professions.

As Alabama seeks to maintain and expand its leadership in forestry, workforce recruitment and training are paramount. Challenges include replacing an aging workforce, raising awareness among younger populations, and aligning educational programs with industry needs.

Strategic approaches include:

• Educational Integration – Expanding forestry curricula in high schools, community colleges, and universities to increase awareness and prepare students for career entry.
• Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning – Strengthening partnerships between industry and training institutions to provide pathways from education to employment.
• Targeted Recruitment – Engaging underrepresented populations, including veterans, rural residents, and displaced workers, to meet workforce demand.
• Industry Collaboration – Enhancing cooperation among economic developers, employers, and state agencies to coordinate messaging, incentives, and training investments.

Forestry is both a legacy and a future-oriented industry for Alabama. Its economic contributions, environmental stewardship, and broad career opportunities position it as a cornerstone of sustainable growth. By investing in workforce recruitment, education, and technological innovation, Alabama can ensure that forestry continues to generate prosperity while strengthening our state’s competitiveness in a global economy.

Dr. Nicole Jones Wadsworth

President, Jones Wadsworth

Republican Candidate, Lieutenant Governor of Alabama, nicoleforalabama.com

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