Press Release

Atmore, Ala.  – Poarch Creek Indians proudly announce the appointment of Shelly Chavira to the newly established Alabama Workforce Board created by Governor Kay Ivey.  The merging of the Alabama Workforce Council and the State Workforce Development Board into the Alabama Workforce Board is part of Governor Ivey’s efforts to overhaul the state’s workforce development initiatives, and better allow business and industry leaders to guide critical decisions impacting the state’s public workforce.

Chavira’s appointment to this board brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership experience, particularly in advancing the interests of Tribal communities.  She has been a dedicated employee of the Tribe since 2009, initially serving in the Health Department as a medical assistant.  In 2019, she assumed a position within the Tribe’s Education Department and became the coordinator of the WIOA Grant in 2022.  Her passion for helping people has always been evident. During this time her diligence and unwavering effort played a pivotal role in facilitating career guidance for adolescents, young adults, and other Tribal citizens.  Chavira’s endeavors over the years have been instrumental in dismantling employment barriers and enhancing employability for those within the community.  

 “As Shelly’s direct supervisor, I’m very proud of her for being appointed by the Governor for this new initiative,” said Magen Weaver, Senior Manager Education Department, Poarch Creek Indians. “I know that Shelly will add a unique perspective to the board that will be valuable to Tribal Citizens and the people of Alabama,” she added.  

“The appointment to the board came as a complete surprise,” said Chavira, Workforce Development Manager, Poarch Creek Indians.  “I have gained valuable insight from my experiences serving on the SWAPTE (Southwest Alabama Partnership for Training and Employment) Board, as well as the sub-committee for the SWAPTE Youth Grants and Programs.  I intend to use that knowledge and experience in serving on the Alabama Workforce Board to help not only our Tribal citizens but the citizens of the state of Alabama in improving and revitalizing the Alabama workforce for the future.”   

 “We are extremely proud and gratified that Shelly Chavira has been selected to serve on the Alabama Workforce Board,” noted the Poarch Band of Creek Indians’ Chairwoman and CEO, Stephanie Bryan. “Shelly has a deep understanding of the challenges of developing a workforce in rural America, and she is deeply committed to ensuring that Alabamians — no matter where they live and work in our great state — have opportunities to acquire the training they need for high-skill, high-wage jobs that will support families, attract and grow businesses and move our economy forward.”