“Job training to upgrade the skills of Tennessee’s workers is one of the best things we can do for our economy,” Gov. Bredesen said. “Now more than ever, it is important to continue training our workforce to keep employees and companies competitive.”
“The Incumbent Worker Grants help companies invest in the future of their workers,” Neeley said. “Over the past six years, Incumbent Worker Training grants have totaled more than $11 million to assist more than 40,000 employees.”
“The Incumbent Worker Grants are a good tool to keep employers and workers up-to-date on the latest skills training,” said Rep. Kevin Brooks.
The Southeast Tennessee Development District played a key role in awarding the grant to Cormetech.
The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development administers the Incumbent Worker Training program. The program has been structured to be flexible to meet Cormetech’s training objectives. The business may use public, private, or its own in-house training provider based on the nature of the training.
The following criteria must be met to qualify for the Incumbent Worker Training Program:
n Employers must be in operation in Tennessee for at least one year prior to application date.
n Employers must have at least five full-time employees, demonstrate financial viability and be current on all state tax obligations.
n Funding priority is given to businesses whose grant proposals represent a significant layoff avoidance strategy and represent a significant upgrade of skills.
