Murphy, CCSU Officials Announce Funding for Connecticut Manufacturing Workforce Training

Press Release

As more Connecticut workers are looking for ways to stay competitive in this tough job market, Congressman Chris Murphy (CT-5) and Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) today announced federal funding for training Connecticut's manufacturing workforce for continued and future employment.

"This is a smart investment in Connecticut's workforce. Programs like CCSU's Institute for Technology and Business Development will boost our state's ability to compete around the world for business opportunities," said Murphy.

As the state slowly recovers from this economic recession, Connecticut is faced with an aging workforce that needs training to stay competitive. CCSU's Institute for Technology and Business Development (ITBD) is about to launch a program, which is supported by $150,000 grant secured by Murphy through the Small Business Development Administration, to teach workers productivity improvement skills and enhance their manufacturing abilities. Local businesses, like Admill Machine in New Britain, can participate in the program by contacting Richard Mullins, CCSU Institute for Technology and Business Development, 860-832-0700.

"We are excited about the advanced training this grant will provide manufacturing companies that seek this funding and thank Congressman Murphy for his leadership in pursuing this much needed support. We thank the SBA for its support as well," said Mullins, director of CCSU's ITBD located in downtown New Britain.

Through the program, employee training will focus on the areas of quality, process and productivity improvement. While increasing a company's competitiveness, Mullins believes the advanced training "will provide business growth opportunities and inspire workforce development within the state."

According to the Connecticut Department of Labor, in 2010, the state yielded more than 6,000 job openings as a result of the aging workforce and the retirement of baby boomers. To maximize Connecticut's current workforce, we must train them for the job market. CCSU began these training programs in January 2011, and have the funds to continue for three years. The goal is to provide 500 hours of training services to companies throughout Connecticut.

Source