Calhoun Launches Warhawk Workshops to Empower North Alabama Community with Career Skills and Creative Learning

New initiative offers accelerated workforce training, hobby courses, and lifelong learning opportunities for all ages

Decatur, AL — Calhoun is opening its doors wider than ever before in downtown Decatur with the launch of the Warhawk Workshops, a community-focused initiative designed to give residents of North Alabama access to both career-building training and personal enrichment courses. Officially launching in January 2026, with a special series of preview classes at the end of October 2025, the workshops will provide an inviting space for adults, teens, and retirees to explore new skills, advance their careers, and pursue lifelong passions.

“This initiative is about helping people believe in themselves again,” said Nivea King, Calhoun Workforce Solutions Community Engagement Facilitator. “I have met so many parents, retirees, and professionals who have said, ‘I wish I could go back to school, but it’s too late.’ Watching them take that first small step into learning, whether for a hobby or a new skill, is incredibly powerful. That’s what motivates me: showing people that education has no expiration date.”

Warhawk Workshops will offer a diverse range of courses. Career-focused programs provide accelerated training in areas such as welding, cybersecurity, heavy equipment operation, nutrition, and fitness, giving participants hands-on skills and recognized certifications that help them move quickly into high-demand jobs. These courses are developed in partnership with local employers to meet workforce needs and strengthen the regional economy.

Alongside professional training, Calhoun is offering fun and lifestyle courses to inspire creativity, joy, and connection. Community members can try cookie decorating, Latin dance, painting, guitar, pottery, acting, or technology workshops. These courses encourage participants to explore interests they may never have pursued, connect with others, and grow personally while also fostering a sense of community.

“Stepping outside my comfort zone, I recently auditioned for a local play and received two callbacks to perform,” King added. “It reminded me how powerful it is to keep challenging ourselves and embracing new opportunities at every stage of life. I hope to inspire others to take that same leap, try something new, and rediscover the excitement of learning and living fully.”

Warhawk Workshops are open to all Alabama residents. Interested participants can register for three preview classes that kick off on October 28 and run through November 19 with multiple sessions to choose from. Those sessions include cookie decorating with Oh Darling Sugar Cookie Company, a lively Latin dance session, and a Computer & Smart Devices workshop with FavGeek. Full registration for the complete January 2026 sessions will open soon, with courses held at Calhoun’s Decatur and Alabama Center for the Arts campuses. Evening options ensure flexibility for working adults and families.

Calhoun is also seeking instructors and experts to teach in areas ranging from workforce certifications to lifestyle courses. Instructors do not need formal teaching experience but must have expertise and a passion for sharing it. Calhoun provides space, equipment, and materials, and instructors are compensated for their time. Community members can pitch their own course ideas through the Warhawk Workshop Instructor Interest Form on Calhoun’s website.

“This program is about helping people develop their talents and grow their confidence,” King said. “I see moms and dads rediscovering their purpose, men and women exploring the skills they have always carried, and teachers reigniting their love for teaching. The Warhawk Workshops strengthen our community while living out Calhoun’s mission of promoting student success and community development through quality education, cultural enrichment, and workforce training.”

To browse courses, register for preview sessions, or suggest a class idea, visit www.calhoun.edu/warhawkworkshops.

About Calhoun Community College
Calhoun Community College has served North Alabama for decades by providing high-quality education, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities. Calhoun offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for careers, further education, and personal growth.

About Calhoun Workforce Solutions
Calhoun Workforce Solutions partners with local businesses, organizations, and the community to provide training, certification, and enrichment programs that address regional workforce needs while supporting lifelong learning and personal development.

All media inquiries must be directed through the Calhoun Public Relations Team at 256-306-2560 or 256-306-2965.