Governor Phil Bredesen and Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development Commissioner James Neeley have awarded $1,666,868 in job training grants to 64 companies across the state. Incumbent Worker Training grants assist employers with upgrading skills and avoiding layoffs for their employees.

Graphic Packaging International in Lawrenceburg has been awarded $7,200. This grant will provide training to 22 employees in Electrical/Pneumatic & PLC Tooling and G.M.P. Packaging Manufacturing.

"Job training to upgrade the skills of Tennessee’s workers is one of the best things we can do
for our economy," said Governor Bredesen. "Now more than ever, it is important to continue
training our workforce to keep employees and companies competitive."

"The Incumbent Worker Grants help companies invest in the future of their workers," said
Commissioner Neeley. "Over the past six years, Incumbent Worker Training grants have totaled more than $11 million to assist more than 40,000 employees."

“I commend Governor Bredesen and Commissioner Neeley for awarding this grant in Lawrence
County,” said Senator Doug Jackson.

“The Incumbent Worker Grants are a good tool to keep employers and workers up to date on
the latest skills training,” said Representative Joey Hensley.

The South Central Tennessee Workforce Board played a key role in awarding the grant to
Graphic Packaging International.

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.