Etowah County's diverse industrial base has a concentration of metalworking companies and support services, augmented by cutting-edge technology training facilities. Our public schools were the first in the state to offer a Tech Prep diploma curriculum. Our large community college offers a variety of engineering technology degree programs, including Machine Tool Technology and Industrial Automation Technology. And our manufacturing technology center was named one of the best in the nation. Local training is accredited by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills.This is also the center for transportation services, health care, social services, retail and wholesale trade, financial and legal services, communications, recreational opportunities and cultural attractions in northeast Alabama. Located on Interstate Highway 59, we are 60 miles/97 km northeast of Birmingham, 90 miles/145 km southwest of Chattanooga and 120 miles/193 km west of Atlanta.With populations of 37,000 in the city, 75,000 in the urban area, 104,000 in the county and 384,000 in a 30-mile radius, Gadsden is a Keep America Beautiful national award-winner, a recipient of the U.S. Conference of Mayors' City Livability Award, and was designated an All-America City by the National Civic League.Click below to view a 5-minute segment about the Gadsden area that appeared on "Today in America" hosted by Terry Bradshaw.