ETA News Release: [Jan 10, 2005]
Contact Name: Michael Volpe
Phone Number: 202-693-3984 or X4676
U.S. Department of Labor Awards $2 Million Grant to Train Tennessee Workers for Geospatial Careers
FRANKLIN, Tenn. - The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2 million grant to the Institute for GIS Studies (IGISS) to train workers for careers in the geospatial industry. The project is part of a larger effort announced in November 2004 by Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao to begin addressing the need for workers with geospatial technology skills in today's economy. Presenting the check was Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco, who was joined in Franklin by U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn.
"There is growing demand for workers trained in the use of geospatial technologies," said Secretary of Labor Chao. "Projects like the one we are highlighting in Nashville today, and a newly established training program in Charlotte, will help in training and recruitment of workers for careers in this exciting industry."
With the grant, IGISS is establishing two geospatial business hubs - one at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, N.C., and a second one in Nashville, Tenn. DeRocco was on hand for the kick-off of the Charlotte-based project on Dec. 9, 2004. The hubs will provide 425 unemployed and underemployed Tennessee and North Carolina workers with apprenticeship training, internships and on-the-job training in geospatial technology applications for land management and utilities services.
"The President's High Growth Job Training Initiative helps prepare individuals for careers in growing industries that provide good career opportunities and have a need for skilled workers to meet increased demand," said DeRocco. "The geospatial industry is a perfect example of the growth and advancement opportunities available to workers who have been provided the training that will enable them to compete and succeed in the 21st century economy."
Key business and education partners will make contributions worth nearly $4.4 million to support the IGISS project.
Through the President's High Growth Job Training Initiative, the Department of Labor has been conducting executive forums with leaders of expanding industries to identify critical workforce gaps and issues. Solutions, like the program being funded in Tennessee, are then created in cooperation with employers, educational institutions and the public workforce system. For more information, visit www.doleta.gov/BRG/JobTrainInitiative/.
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