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EMPLOYER SERVICES:

Workforce Training Fund:

Between July 1, 2005 and June 30, 2006 $301,702 was invested in training for 783 local employees represented by 18 employers in Columbia, Clatsop and Tillamook Counties.  You too could take advantage of this opportunity to increase your business’ productivity and competitiveness.  The purpose of this program is to retain and create quality jobs by increasing the skills of the current workforce and the competitiveness of private employers.

The local Workforce Response Team (WRT) has awarded funds to eighteen area businesses from manufacturing, healthcare, aviation and small business. These businesses are using this funding to send employees to training programs bring customized training to their business or develop custom training packages for their employees.

Eligibility and Award Criteria:

OWIB Criteria Note: Projects must meet all emphasis areas listed below.
Linked to regional and state economic needs as identified in Regional Investment Plan; and
Company exports goods and services (traded sector) or part of traded-sector clusters to provide the greatest economic benefits or are made in occupations with recognized skill shortages; and
Training is focused on skills necessary to permit company and workers to (a) increase their competitiveness, (b) advance their technological capabilities, (c) enhance productivity or leads to industry and/or educational degrees, certifications, or credentials; and
Training of workers who are paid wages that meet or exceed the median hourly wage in county which they are trained, or result in wage gain or career ladder development with greatest benefit to the state and its workers. (Median wage:  Tillamook- $11.11, Columbia- $12.12, Clatsop- $12.01)
OWIB Preference Note:  Must meet at least two preference areas.
Multiple employer, worker or industry association-led project;
Project with high level of private matching funds;
Project expands on existing curriculum/training programs/resources so that more workers are trained per dollar expended; or the project has the potential to gain economy of scale;
Company not having had the benefit of past EWTF awards
Preferred Regional Cluster Note:  Must meet at least one.
A	Agriculture
B	Aviation
C	Construction
D	Food Processing
E	Health care
F	Wood/Paper Product

 

What Employers are Saying About the Program:
Terry’s Plumbing.  "We are very appreciative of the grant monies received at Terry's Plumbing.  Because of the training funds received, our employees were able to upgrade skills and in the process enhance shop productivity.  Thank you MTC."   Terry Oien, Owner Terry's Plumbing.

Dyno Nobel, “As a result of the Employer Workforce Training Fund, Dyno Nobel is able to hold Supervisory Development Classes.  These classes are designed to provide newly appointed and future candidates the skills to enable them to become Managers and Supervisors as openings occur.  The classes consist of six Sessions: Supervision, Leadership and Building an Effective Team, Resolve Conflict, Managing Change, Ethics and Values, Empowering Others and Coaching.  These are some of the skills needed for successful leaders in the future.” Johneta Johnson, Sr. Human Resource Representative 

Tillamook County General Hospital, “Employer Workforce Training grant funding has enabled Tillamook County General Hospital to develop cutting-edge computerized simulation training for staff nurses and other medical staff that helps them build and maintain vital clinical skills without having to leave town.  Education such as this helps our rural hospital to recruit as well as retain top-quality staff.”  Melody Ayers, Development Director Tillamook County General Hospital           

Sopko Welding, “As a result of the Employer Work Force Training Fund, we have been able to send one of our employees through the Crane Operator Certification program and have had several of our employees obtain their Welding Certifications.  This is a great program - we feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to participate.”  Sherry Sopko, Co-Owner

Application Forms:  Application Process is Open
An electronic application form is available in PDF and Microsoft Word formats. Click to download.

Applications must be returned electronically to Julie Gassner (julie.gassner@mtctrains.com).

Dead lines:  Applications will be accepted on the 1st of each month.  You will receive confirmation and notification within 30 days of your application on the status of funding.

Contact Information:
Julie Gassner, Director
MTC Works
450 Marine Drive, Suite 140
(503) 325-1156
Fax: (503) 325- 9520
E-mail: julie.gassner@mtctrains.com

Equal Opportunity Program:

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.