ATU-Ozark to offer customized workforce training

by The City Wire staff ([email protected]) 80 views 

Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus and the Professional Development Institute of Arkansas Tech University have partnered to provide customized training to several area industries.

The industries helped through this training include members of the Johnson County Workforce Training Consortium, members of the Russellville Industry Council, Baldor Electric Co.‘s Ozark operations, and Green Bay Packaging in Morrilton.

The training was made possible through the Arkansas Incumbent Worker Training Program (IWTP). IWTP under the federal Workforce Investment Act provides funding for innovative training projects that benefit business and industry by assisting the skill development of incumbent workers, thereby increasing employee opportunities and company growth and productivity, according to the ATU-Ozark statement. Training in portable skills results in a more highly skilled and versatile workforce that contributes to Arkansas’ ability to attract new business and creates an environment conducive to expansion.

Funding for projects in which Arkansas Tech will participate exceeds $200,000. More than 40 training events will be held in 2010 and 2011 in the Arkansas River Valley. Training topics include leadership skills, computer skills, electrical skills, safety, National Electric Code, Lean manufacturing, and many other industry specific areas.

The Business and Industry Program and Professional Institute specialize in “just-in-time” customized training to prepare individuals, industries and organizations to compete in the new economy.