Governor Awards Skills Grant to South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance

NASHVILLE – Governor Phil Bredesen and Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development Commissioner James Neeley have awarded $42,900 to the South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance in Columbia to provide training opportunities for disadvantaged youth.

The funding will assist youth in learning welding skills and will also provide structured educational training leading to completion of a high school diploma.

“I am pleased to award this grant to the South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance to assist youth in learning job skills along with leadership and life skills,” said Governor Bredesen. “The youth construction and education project meets employers’ needs for a high demand occupation and helps these young people who have various barriers to employment.”

“I am proud to award this grant money to improve training and education opportunities for the target youth for this program,” said Commissioner Neeley. “This is a comprehensive program aimed at putting young people on a successful career path that in turn enhances the quality of the workforce.”

“This grant will benefit young people in the area who are in need of career guidance and life skills training,” said Senator Doug Jackson. “My appreciation goes to Governor Bredesen and Commissioner Neeley for awarding this grant.”