Grants and Funding
OMEP/NWHPEC Grant • DOL Food Processor Grant • EWT Fund • Manufacturing Workforce Grant
$3.2 Million DOL Food Processor Grant Awarded to Oregon Manufacturing Extension Partnership Continues through November 2007
This Advanced Manufacturing grant is part of the President's High Growth Job Training Initiative, a strategic effort to prepare workers with the skills they need in high growth sectors of the American economy.
The food processing industry is one of the region's largest manufacturing sectors and has maintained steady growth over the last several years. By implementing a system of continuous improvement, lean manufacturing techniques will assist food manufacturers in four states in streamlining their operations and in remaining competitive. Making such training available to all groups of manufacturing employees, especially those of Hispanic ethnicity, (because this group composes more than 30% of the region's food manufacturing workforce) is a special focus of the grant.
During the life of the grant (2004 through 2007), at least 2,000 workers in 48 value-added food processing companies will receive extensive lean manufacturing training and consultation. Because a large proportion of workers in the food processing industry have limited English speaking skills, the project includes a strong English language component.
Projected Outcomes:
- At least 48 regional food manufacturing companies will implement lean manufacturing techniques and be able to more efficiently compete in the global marketplace.
- The project will produce a replicable curriculum for English language training in lean manufacturing for food processing.
- Those trained, including Hispanic and Latino workers, will have increased job security, be on the track to promotions, and receive higher wages.
There are still opportunities for additional food processors to participate. Contact us for more information on the DOL Food Processors Grant and company qualifications.
