Midwest Energy and Co-Bank have teamed together for a $120,000 investment in career training for companies in Midwest Energy’s 41-county service area. North Central Kansas Technical College and Hutchinson Community College, in cooperation with area companies, are partnering together to offer the new training initiative.

The training — in partnership with the Kansas Department of Commerce, Ellis County Coalition for Economic Development, Midwest Energy and Co-Bank — provides participants with intensive technology training and links them to good jobs with local area manufacturers and constructors – “education linked to a job.”

The pilot project connects economic and workforce development under the new “Workforce Aligned with Industry Demand” (Workforce AID) initiative at the Kansas Department of Commerce.

Training curriculum was developed under the guidance of area manufacturers including Glassman Corp., Cross Manufacturing, CASHCO, Carrico Implement Co., Wellhead Systems and APAC. Graduates are prepared for an entry-level position with one of these companies and also are ready to earn an industry credential from the National Institute of Metalworking Skills.

For a limited time, funding from Midwest Energy and Co-Bank is available for adults who qualify.

“This project provides training that is specifically targeted to meet the needs of our area companies. Adults can complete this training quickly and move into quality jobs while local companies remain competitive with a skilled workforce,” said both Eric Burks, president at NCK Tech, and Ed Berger, HCC president.

“This pilot project will connect trainees with employers who need people now, and remove the barriers to those individuals acquiring the skills and credentials needed in rural Kansas communities,” said Kansas Commerce Secretary Pat George.

To enroll in the training, call NCK Tech (785-738-9051) or KANSASWORKS (785-625-5654) at the Hays Workforce Center. Pre-assessment tests are required before enrollment.