C.A. Fredd Jr. Career & Tech Academy was founded in 2023 with a clear mission: to equip students in the Tuscaloosa City, Tuscaloosa County, Bessemer, and McCalla areas with the technical skills and academic knowledge necessary for success in today’s workforce. Named after C.A. Fredd Jr., a passionate educator and community advocate, the academy was established in response to the critical need for skilled workers in high-demand industries, as well as the growing educational disparities in the region. Fredd’s vision of accessible, career-oriented education for underserved populations continues to guide the school’s mission today (Smith, 2011).
The founding of the academy was driven by the recognition that many students in these communities faced barriers to academic success, including low graduation rates, limited access to higher education, and a shortage of workforce-ready skills. To address these challenges, the academy designed its curriculum to blend academic rigor with hands-on career training in fields such as robotics, welding, diesel mechanics, culinary arts, and computer science. These programs are aimed at equipping students not only for immediate employment but also for further education opportunities (National Center for Education Statistics, 2018).
What distinguishes C.A. Fredd Jr. Career & Tech Academy is its emphasis on community partnerships. By collaborating with local businesses and industry leaders, the academy ensures its curriculum aligns with the workforce needs of the region. These partnerships offer students the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, giving them a competitive edge in the job market (Alabama Workforce Development, 2020).
Furthermore, the academy embraces a holistic approach to student development, integrating culturally responsive teaching and trauma-informed care to support both academic and personal growth. This commitment to student-centered learning, combined with its strong industry connections, positions C.A. Fredd Jr. Career & Tech Academy as a catalyst for educational and economic opportunity in Tuscaloosa City, County, Bessemer, and McCalla.
Executive Board
C.A. Fredd Jr.
C.A. Fredd Jr. is an experienced educator and professional with a distinguished career in electrical instruction and community service. He began his teaching career in 1957 at Lawson State Community College in Birmingham, AL, where he taught the fundamentals of electricity to students aspiring to become certified electricians. He continued his teaching journey at C.A. Fredd State Technical College in Tuscaloosa, AL, where he served from 1960 to 1986. There, he taught electricity and also held various leadership roles, including Evening Coordinator, Faculty Advisor for the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA), and Dean of Instruction. In these capacities, he supervised instructional services, supported faculty, and ensured quality educational programs for students. Fredd’s leadership extended beyond the classroom, as he also worked as the Director of Occupational Services, aligning academic offerings with industry needs.
In addition to his teaching career, Fredd contributed to the aerospace industry as a Test Engineer at Moog Servocontrol in East Aurora, NY, from 1962 to 1966. During this time, he played a key role in testing servocontrol valves used in the Saturn V rocket, the spacecraft that made history by sending humans to the moon. Fredd’s commitment to education and professional growth also extended to his active involvement in several professional organizations. He served as the President of the C.A. Fredd State Teachers Association, was a member of the Alabama Teachers Retirement System, and participated in the International Association of Electrical Inspectors. His community engagement includes roles such as Assistant District Commissioner with the Black Warrior Council of the Boy Scouts of America, faculty advisor for the Rho Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity at Stillman College, and serving on the Board of Directors for the Tuscaloosa Citizens for Action Committee. C.A. Fredd Jr. is also a Master Mason and an active member of the Tuscaloosa Chapter of the NCAA and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
With a career spanning education, industry, and civic involvement, C.A. Fredd Jr. has made a lasting impact on his community and the many students and professionals he has mentored throughout his life.
Dr. Dominic Combs
Dr. Dominic Combs is the visionary founder of the C.A. Fredd Jr. Career and Tech Academy, dedicated to transforming educational experiences for students in Tuscaloosa City, Tuscaloosa County, and parts of Jefferson County. With a strong commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity, he has created a learning environment that emphasizes academic excellence, social-emotional growth, and community engagement.
Bringing over 20 years of experience in education and leadership, Dr. Combs has previously served in various roles, including teacher, administrator, and educational consultant. He holds a PhD from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is passionate about leveraging research-based practices to enhance student outcomes.
Under his leadership, the C.A. Fredd Jr. Career and Tech Academy has established a curriculum that prioritizes STEM education and behavioral health, believing in the power of personalized learning to create an environment where every student feels valued and supported. He believes that the way you support students is through a culturally responsive, trauma-informed holistic approach.
In addition to his work at the Academy, Dr. Combs actively engages with the community through partnerships and initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of underserved populations. He is committed to collaborating with families, local organizations, and stakeholders to ensure that the school meets the diverse needs of its students.
Dr. Combs is driven by the belief that education is a fundamental right and is dedicated to empowering students to become compassionate, critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. Through his innovative approach and unwavering dedication, he continues to inspire both students and educators alike.
Dan Johnson
I am the co-designer for C.A. Fredd Jr. Career and Tech Academy. I am dedicated to helping create a school culture that gives all of our kids multiple positive options for their future after high school. I am a highly motivated and progress-focused executive with a long-standing background in this industry. With a track record of initiative and dependability, I have devised strategic initiatives which I believe will prove valuable to C.A. Fredd Jr Career and Tech Academy.
Throughout my career, I have honed my life management and behavior modeling skills, allowing me to effectively navigate various challenges. I pride myself on being a capable and consistent problem-solver, adept at prioritizing tasks and managing projects with precision. This proficiency enables me to streamline processes and ensure that goals are met efficiently. My ability to model positive behavior not only enhances my own productivity but also serves as an inspiration for others, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
In my previous role, I contributed communication, leadership, and program management toward team efforts and business improvements. I am progressive minded and in tune with new developments in my field. I have proven to be effective and collaborative with strong observation talents. I enjoy collective brainstorming sessions which allow me to coordinate activities to achieve a common goal.
As one of the lead mentors for Omega Prep Knights, I am dedicated to guiding students in grades 9 through 12 toward a brighter future. Our mission centers on helping each young man strive to be a better version of himself every day. We emphasize academic excellence, instilling a strong work ethic and a passion for learning. Leadership skills are cultivated through hands-on experiences, empowering students to take initiative and inspire others. Additionally, we prioritize community engagement, encouraging our mentees to contribute positively to their surroundings. Together, we’re not just preparing for the future; we’re shaping responsible, compassionate leaders for tomorrow.
I believe being driven by education means embracing a lifelong journey of discovery and growth. It fuels curiosity and empowers individuals to expand their horizons, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate an ever-changing world. Education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and resilience, enabling us to tackle challenges with confidence. It inspires a deep understanding of diverse perspectives, fostering empathy and collaboration in our communities. Ultimately, being driven by education is about the pursuit of not just personal success, but also the betterment of society, as we strive to share our insights and uplift those around us.
Roland M. Lewis
An accomplished executive with a proven track record of leading transformative initiatives, I bring a wealth of experience in driving organizational success through strategic vision, operational excellence, and innovative leadership. My ability to capitalize on market trends and execute plans that enhance efficiency has resulted in sustainable growth and strengthened organizational performance.
Currently, as the District Director & Director for Scouting Outreach at Black Warrior Council, Boy Scouts of America, I lead a team in delivering high-impact programs, driving a 65% increase in annual donations and reducing operational expenses by 35%. My role involves strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and fostering a collaborative, results-driven work environment. Prior to this, as Program Director at Tuscaloosa’s One Place, I led programs focused on workforce development and financial literacy for at-risk populations, while implementing fundraising initiatives and career development plans.
Holding a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Music: Vocal Performance from Stillman College, and a Master of Science in Continuing Education with a focus on Counseling/Psychology from the University of West Alabama, I am equipped with the technical, interpersonal, and analytical skills needed to navigate complex challenges.
My expertise in strategic planning, team leadership, fundraising, and stakeholder relations has been complemented by my active involvement in community organizations and professional service, including membership in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., University of Alabama’s Institutional Review Board, and the Tuscaloosa Sheriff Posse.
Through a unique blend of visionary thinking, analytical acumen, and strong leadership, I am committed to driving both organizational success and community impact.
