Cramer discusses work force development with college

MUSCLE SHOALS - U.S. Rep. Bud Cramer, D-Ala., visited Northwest-Shoals Community College on Tuesday to discuss work force training initiatives the college has for new and existing industry.

Cramer said investing in the local work force and creating a place where individuals can train is an important part of attracting industry to the Shoals.

"That's what we have to be doing in order to position ourselves so that when industry comes through here and we're a finalist, they can see the advantage of staying right here," Cramer said.

Cramer said it will be critical to have a well-equipped work force, especially after the recent announcement of the Canadian railcar company, national Alabama Corp, which is locating in the Shoals and will reportedly employ up to 1,800 people at capacity.

"The welding is a huge part of what their workforce will be all about," Cramer said.

Northwest-Shoals President Humphrey Lee said there will be 35 to 40 students enrolled in its welding program for the fall semester, and he anticipates growth in the class in the future.

Existing industries, such as North American Lighting in Muscle Shoals, will also benefit from the opportunity to train their workers in the community.

"We want to make sure we have training for employees, whether for new industries or existing industries," Lee said.

Cramer said a survey, conducted by the college several months ago, was part of what helped reassure National Alabama Corp that the work force was present in the Shoals.

In 2005, the college received $1.6 million through the U.S. Labor Department's community-based job training grant program, $2.2 million from the House Appropriations Committee for the Center for Business and Industry, and $450,000 for the college's Automotive Garage Facility. The money has allowed further work force development and training and helped prepare trade-skill workers, such as welders.

Lee said that Cramer has been instrumental in obtaining federal funds for the school.

"This is part of a team effort," Lee said. "I'd like to thank the Congressman for his leadership and his vision."

TimesDaily Staff Writer Kenda Williams can be reached at 740-5720 or kenda.williams@timesdaily.com.