Governor Awards Dickson Co. Company Job Training Grant

R&F Communications, Inc. Awarded $13,915 to Upgrade Skills and Avoid Layoffs

NASHVILLE – Governor Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development Commissioner Karla Davis have awarded $13,915 to R&F Communications, Inc. in Dickson.

“If Tennessee is going to become the number one location in the Southeast for high-quality jobs, then we must offer a well-trained workforce to employers,” said Governor Haslam. “This kind of training grant not only helps educate workers, but also provides incentive to employers looking to relocate or expand in Tennessee.” 

“Both job creation and retention are vital in maintaining a healthy economy in Tennessee, and the Incumbent Worker Training program has played a key role in accomplishing this,” said Commissioner Davis.  “Since the program’s inception, Incumbent Worker Training grants have assisted more than 600 businesses by providing $14 million to train approximately 50,000 employees.”

In their application for the grant, R&F Communications, Inc. stated this grant will allow for reinforcement of processes and also provide coaching and mentoring for every employee. Since they are a small business, this will help make the company more competitive and allow the company to avoid layoffs and lead to future growth.

“I would like to thank Governor Haslam and Commissioner Davis for their involvement in awarding this grant to the workers of Dickson County,” said Senator Jim Summerville. 

“By investing in the skills of Tennessee’s workforce, we’re also investing in our future economic success,” said Representative David Shepard.

Workforce Essentials, Inc. played a key role in awarding the grant to R&F Communications, Inc.

The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development administers the Incumbent Worker Training program. The program has been structured to be flexible to meet the business'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. Employers must be in operation in Tennessee for at least one year prior to application date. Employers must have at least five full-time employees, demonstrate financial viability and be current on all state tax obligations. Funding priority is given to businesses whose grant proposals represent a significant layoff avoidance strategy and represent a significant upgrade of skills.

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