Governor Awards Gibson Co. Company Job Training Grant

EYE CARE GROUP, PPLC AWARDED $24,900 TO UPGRADE SKILLS AND AVOID LAYOFFS

NASHVILLE – Governor Bill Haslam and Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development Commissioner Karla Davis have awarded $24,900 to Eye Care Group, PPLC in Humboldt.

“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, Eye Care Group, PPLC stated this grant will provide training, consulting, and a follow-through program that will better position the practice for dramatically improved performance (revenue, profit, productivity of staff), directly resulting in substantial growth and ability to maintain and add employees.

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

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

The Dyersburg State Community College played a key role in awarding the grant to Eye Care Group, PPLC.

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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