The Business Advocate

Published as part of the statewide magazine, Business Alabama, The Business Advocate highlights BCA’s work on behalf of the varied needs of business at the state and federal level, spotlights BCA events and members, and includes information from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers. BCA members receive a complimentary subscription to Business Alabama.

Volume 14

2023 Issues

Issue 8 - September 2023

From creating over 1,800 jobs and in-store value, to local charity donations, America’s Thrift Stores has a far-reaching impact on communities across Alabama.

Issue 7 - August 2023

Spire is a natural gas utility company providing services to nearly 520,000 customers statewide and employing nearly 1,100 people across Alabama.

Issue 6 - July 2023

By creating jobs, connecting businesses, and investing in the state, The Alabama Port Authority is moving more than just cargo. It's moving Alabama's economy.

Issue 5 - June 2023

Alabama aircraft maker Airbus has been developing Mobile's rich workforce talent pool through a number of innovative programs and apprenticeships.

Issue 4 - April 2023

With a proven track record of establishing the programs and opportunities necessary, UNA is helping to meet the training, education, and workforce needs of employers across the state. UNA is developing cutting edge programs and curricula based on demand and in direct collaboration with large employers across a wide variety of industries.

Issue 3 - March 2023

Angus Cooper, III, is one of the strongest business leaders in our state, driven by the simple mantra – “stay hungry and work hard.” Cooper serves as president of The Cooper Group of Companies, an Alabama-based, innovative organization employing thousands worldwide. The multifaceted, maritime firm impacts an astonishing array of industries throughout the world, from agriculture, energy and chemicals to construction, food service and tourism.

Issue 2 - February 2023

When considering the top issues that Alabamians care about, economic development and job creation consistently rank at the top of the list. This legislative session, our state’s leaders have the opportunity to renew the Alabama Jobs Act and Growing Alabama legislation, signifying these top issues are a key priority.

Issue 1 - January 2023

The 2022 Alabama Small Business of Year Awards were held on December 3rd in conjunction with the BCA and CCAA Annual Meeting and Partnership Event.

Volume 13

2022 Issues

Issue 11 - December 2022

Headquartered in Albertville, AL, Progress Rail prides itself on global leadership and commitment to the local community while continuing to safely move the 21st century railroad industry across the world.

Issue 10 - November 2022

The Alabama Manufacturer of the Year Awards recognize excellence in Alabama's top manufacturers. Award recipients lead the way representing dedication to leadership, performance standards, profitability, and workforce relations.

Issue 9 - October 2022

Brasfield & Gorrie is well-established in Alabama, which the company has called home since its founding in 1964. Its deep roots have supported significant recent growth, and the company is poised to continue that trajectory.

Issue 8 - September 2022

Having a seat at the table of public policy and connecting to other businesses can dramatically improve your organization. Learn how the Business Council of Alabama can help to facilitate your business needs.

Issue 7 - August 2022

Intuitive Research and Technology Corporation grew from a small two person operation to one of Huntsville's most competitive and well respected technical solutions contractors.

Issue 6 - July 2022

Birmingham-based Big Communications unpacks extensive research to explain how Alabama is uniquely positioned to attract the best talent from the next generation of workers.

Issue 5 - June 2022

Jim and Will Wilson are carrying on their father's legacy of business integrity and entrepreneurship while diversifying the company's focus and assets.

Issue 4 - May 2022

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and Regions Bank partnered to create a unified space for Tuscaloosa's job creators, developers, and seekers.

Issue 3 - March 2022

Laura grill refuses to let covid define EAMC's future

Issue 2 - February 2022

BCA names first African-American chairman of the board.

Issue 1 - January 2022

The 2021 Alabama Small Business of Year Awards were held on December 3rd in conjunction with the BCA and CCAA Annual Meeting and Partnership Event.

Volume 12

2021 Issues

Issue 11 - December 2021

An Alabama based engineering firm with a culture of giving back is changing the lives of mobility challenged children at home and across the world.

Issue 10 - November 2021

Manufacturing moves Alabama's economy forward, and the Business Council of Alabama and the Alabama Technology Network are honored to celebrate Alabama's top manufacturers each year.

Issue 9 - October 2021

Henry County recently received a major economic investment when an abandoned textile factory was flipped into a state-of-the-art sawmill providing lumber to companies across Alabama.

Issue 8 - September 2021

Cullman County-based HomTex shifted gears during the pandemic to solve a national supply-chain shortage. With plans to add 300 jobs to Dallas County, they're doubling down their efforts to become America's mask manufacturer.

Issue 7 - August 2021

Southwestern Alabama's Outokumpu is leading the charge in producing clean stainless steel to meet worldwide demands with sustainable and profitable manufacturing methods.

Issue 6 - July 2021

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians are challenging expectations and growing the economy. With nearly 6,000 direct jobs created throughout the country, PCI is serving the country and putting people to work.

Issue 5 - June 2021

Birmingham based Shipt's commitment and caring for their shoppers and customers is at the core of their revolutionary growth. Now serving over 5,000 cities, they pride themselves in delivering southern hospitality all across the U.S.

Issue 4 - May 2021

During a year of working apart from each other, the Business Council of Alabama focused its time and resources on ways to build and reunite Alabama's business community utilizing unconventional strategies and new technologies.

Issue 3 - March 2021

Operation Warp Speed outlined a requirement of cold chain logistics for COVID-19 vaccines. The challenge was met by an Alabama company witht years of refrigeration manufacturing expertise.

Issue 2 - February 2021

The 2020 Alabama Small Business of the Year Awards were held virtually this year as part of the BCA and CCAA's Annual Meeting and Partnership Event.

Issue 1 - January 2021

KMS's proprietary project management system has allowed the fast growing firm to stay connected and remain effective and efficient in a time of being remote.