Memphis Bioworks Foundation was recently awarded a nearly $4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor as part of its Strengthening Working Families Initiative. In the Memphis region, the funding will be used to facilitate short-term job training, coaching, and job placement for unemployed or underemployed parents in Fayette, Lauderdale, Shelby, and Tipton Counties. The Northwest TN Workforce Board is a collaborating partner in Lauderdale and Tipton counties. 

This program will include supportive services, including funding for and access to child care resources and transportation assistance. “This grant enables a comprehensive workforce development approach to connecting parents in our region to new skills and new job opportunities while also providing support for their families,” said Steve Bares, PhD, president and executive director of Memphis Bioworks Foundation.

Training will be targeted in advanced manufacturing, health care and information technology careers. The program’s goals are to provide grant-funded services and education/training to more than 500 participants by June 2020. In addition, Memphis Bioworks will consult with the Employer Advisory Council it manages for insight and input on job training curricula, industry trends, essential skills training, and employment opportunities.

The grant will be administered among training and community partners and employers by the Memphis Bioworks workforce development team, led by Sondra Howell, Director of Workforce Development.

For more information:  News release from the U.S. Department of Labor, June 14, 2016: https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20160614