New TDOT Employees in Scott County Anxious to Get to Work

[img:1 align=float_left] KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – In February 2010, Scott County’s unemployment rate continues to linger at 18.3 percent which is well above the state average of 10.8 percent. On April 8, Governor Phil Bredesen announced his plan to use funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to put 150 Scott County residents back to work. One third of those new positions will be filled within the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

[img:2 align=float_left]“I see this as an open door and I hope to turn it into more than a temporary thing,” Newport said. “I’m hoping my qualifications will make a difference.”

Newport is a husband, father of three and guardian to his two young nieces. The 35 year old lost his job a little more than a year ago, but he used his unemployment to seek an education as an electrician. “I’ve taken some classes and I’ve done my best to make money the best way I could,” Newport said as he described odd jobs he has used to make ends meet.

Just two days before the Scott County job fair in April, Newport admitted he ran out of money he was using from his 401K from a previous job. His wife has also been able to find a part time job which is bringing in some money to support the Newport family.

[img:3 align=float_left]The Scott County native welled up with tears as he talked about the reality of a steady paycheck in 2010. “It means that we’ll be able to pay our bills,” Newport said. “I feel very emotional because we are going from not knowing, to feeling like we have a chance now.”

TDOT human resources specialists interviewed 85 applicants on April 20 and 21 at the Scott County Office Building located at 2845 Baker Highway.

Next week, the 50 newly hired employees will begin their work in district 14 which includes Scott, Anderson, Campbell, Claiborne and Union Counties. The highway maintenance workers will help to pick up litter, clear brush, clear out culverts, paint, and perform other maintenance duties in and around the TDOT facilities.

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For More Information Contact:
Yvette Martinez
TDOT Region 1 Community Relations Officer
Yvette.Martinez@tn.gov
865-594-0161