SPECIAL TO THE ADVOCATE

Workers at a manufacturing plant in Greenville will learn new job skills with the help of a grant from Gov. Robert Bentley.

REF Alabama Inc. will use the $16,640 grant to pay a portion of the cost to train 20 employees in methods to improve productivity and maintain a safe work environment. The company, which makes electrical connectors and other metal parts for houses and commercial buildings, will contribute $50,659 toward the training cost.

“In today’s economy, it is more important than ever that Alabamians sharpen their skills to remain competitive,” Bentley said. “By learning new skills, these employees will strengthen their company while expanding their opportunities for advancement.”

Company officials say half of the training will focus on safety skills, including first aid, CPR and electrical safety. The other half of the training is designed to help workers improve skills in leadership and time management.

The training will be provided by CATS/EMS Safety of Tuscaloosa and PeopleSmart of Birmingham.

The Incumbent Worker Training grant is awarded through the Governor’s Office of Workforce Development. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is the fiscal agent for the funds which were provided to the state by the U.S. Department of Labor

Bentley informed Tyler Carter, the company’s operations manager, that the grant had been approved.