Alabama Association For Public Continuing And Adult Education
Mr. Barry May
Adult education is more than a second chance; it's a critical entry point into Alabama's workforce. When we intentionally connect adult learners to training and career pathways, we don't just change individual lives; we strengthen our entire economy.
Barry May serves as the Vice Chancellor of Workforce Operations for the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), where he leads statewide efforts to align workforce training and adult education with Alabama’s economic and workforce needs. In this role, he works closely with the system’s 24 community colleges, business and industry partners, and state leaders to create pathways that connect individuals to high-demand careers and support the state’s talent pipeline.
With more than 15 years of experience in manufacturing as an engineer, supervisor, and business unit manager, Barry brings a strong industry perspective to workforce development. His background enables him to effectively bridge the gap between employers and education providers, ensuring that training programs are responsive to real-world workforce demands.
Barry is deeply committed to advancing opportunities for adult learners across Alabama. He is focused on strengthening the connection between adult education and workforce programs, helping individuals build foundational skills while creating clear, accessible pathways into postsecondary education, industry-recognized credentials, and sustainable employment.
Through his work at ACCS, Barry has supported the expansion of work-based learning, short-term training programs, and industry partnerships that deliver measurable outcomes for both individuals and employers. His efforts are centered on improving lives, increasing labor force participation, and helping Alabama’s communities and businesses thrive.
The Flame of Knowledge of Adult Education
ALAPCAE enables educators to realize their self-efficacy in transforming adult education in Alabama and beyond. Our commitment to revolutionizing and empowering adult learners is unparalleled, as we champion such educational maxims as maintaining and disseminating the epistemological dimensions of our collective understanding. Each year, we pen professional advocacy and achieve success at our annual summer conference by reaffirming our steadfastness to adult learners in Alabama and further afield. By joining our non-profit organization, you will receive networking opportunities, professional development, and andragogical resources.
Our Guiding Principles
Mission
Support and promote high-quality adult education programs across Alabama that empower individuals, strengthen families, and contribute to a skilled and educated workforce.
Vision
Advance the field of adult education through professional development, legislative advocacy, and strategic partnerships.
Values
- Equity
- Empowerment
- Collaboration
- Innovation
- Excellence
“60 Years of Learning: A Diamond Celebration”
highlights from the 2025 ALAPCAE SUMMER CONFERENCE
State Support
the REACH Act: Reviving Aspirations
The Restoring Educational Advancement of Completing High School (REACH) Act was signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey on June 1, 2025, formally codifying the High School Diploma Option (HSDO) program into Alabama Law, ensuring it remains a viable nontraditional pathway to graduation for eligible individuals.
National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week Proclamation: A Renewed Commitment
National Adult Education Literacy originated in 2009 when the National Coalition for Literacy (NCL) worked with then-Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO), then-Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN), and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to create a Congressionally-recognized designation that would pinpoint the importance of adult education and family literacy. Since its inception, the NCL has sponsored National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week every September, while working with congressional members in the Senate and House of Representatives to have the week permanently recognized through resolutions.
Gov. Kay Ivey annually renews her commitment to adult education and family literacy by raising awareness to its multifaceted aims and purposes in September. During this yearly event, adult education administrators, policymakers, practitioners, scholars, and students highlight the indelible impact of adult education by attending family literacy events, sharing success stories, and volunteering at local non-profit literacy organizations.
