After three decades as a major employer, the company announced in August that they would consolidate productions to their facility in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, resulting in layoffs of about 600 workers by next fall.
Kentucky secured a $1,994,444 Displaced Worker Grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, and has contributed an additional $648,538 in state rapid response funding. This money will allow for the local workforce board to provide re-employment services to people impacted by the company’s closure.
Education and Workforce Development Cabinet Secretary Derrick Ramsey said, “West Kentucky is fortunate to have local workforce agencies and elected officials who recognize the career and training needs of residents throughout this community. Our cabinet is honored to be a part of this exciting partnership that marks the beginning of a new chapter of local and state agencies coming together to ensure that Western Kentucky residents are equipped with the skills, training and education necessary to thrive in this community.”
Over the next two years, the funding will be allocated the West Kentucky Workforce Development Board for creation of a specialized dislocated worker transition Kentucky Career Center Career Discovery Center on the campus of Murray State University.
The Kentucky Career Center serves as the state’s dedicated hub for connecting Kentuckians to employment, workforce information, education and training. The new location scheduled to open in November 2019 will ensure Western Kentucky residents have immediate access to career and training services.
Career Center services will be provided through a partnership between the West Kentucky Workforce Board, Murray-Calloway County Economic Development Corporation, Murray State University, West Kentucky Community and Technical College, Murray-Calloway County Together, Pennyrile Area Development District, and Purchase Area Development District.
For more information, visit the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
