Governor Awards Knox County Company Job Training Grant

NASHVILLE – Governor Phil Bredesen and Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development Commissioner James Neeley have awarded $21,966 to Titan Truck Equipment and Repair Inc., in Knoxville, Tennessee. 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 Knox County will benefit as well.”

“I commend Governor Bredesen and Commissioner Neeley for awarding the Incumbent Worker grant to Titan Truck Equipment & Repair,” said Senator Tim Burchett. “This will help keep Knox County workers employed and help improve our economy.”

“The Incumbent Worker grants are a wonderful tool for companies to train their workers in the latest technology and production skills,” said Representative Joe Armstrong.

The Knox County Community Action Committee played a key role in awarding the grant to Titan Truck Equipment & Repair, 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.