Governor Awards Memphis Company Job Training Grant

NASHVILLE – Governor Phil Bredesen and Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development Commissioner James Neeley have awarded $41,759 to Thompson Machinery Commerce Corporation in Memphis for incumbent worker training. More than $3 million in Incumbent Worker Training Grants was awarded in fiscal year 2005-06 benefiting almost 15,000 Tennessee workers who retained their jobs and received skill upgrades.

“The Incumbent Worker Training Grants assist companies in staying competitive and increase the skills of their employees,” said Governor Bredesen. “The training grants are fundamental in assisting the growth of Tennessee’s economy.”

“I am proud to award this grant money to keep area workers on the job,” said Commissioner Neeley. “Not only will this company benefit from the grant, but the communities of Shelby county will benefit as well.”

“I commend Governor Bredesen and Commissioner Neeley for awarding the Incumbent Worker grant to Thompson Machinery Commerce Corporation,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Lois DeBerry. “This will help keep Shelby County workers employed and help improve our economy.”

The Workforce Investment Network (WIN) played a vital role in awarding this grant to Thompson Machinery Commerce Corporation.

The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development administers the Incumbent Worker Training program. 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.