Securing skilled local talent is a critical component of growth for Carroll Engineering. A recent strategic partnership between Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program, Harlan County Community Action Agency (CAA), and Carroll Engineering successfully addressed this need, resulting in Harlan resident Ricky Turner transitioning into a full-time Field Service Technician position.
Carroll Engineering and Turner’s story highlights the power of community and collaboration, orchestrated by a dedicated team, beginning with Brandy Griffey, the Business Solutions Consultant with the Harlan County CAA. She played a pivotal role by proactively engaging with local employers to identify critical workforce needs. Her outreach led to a key partnership with Carroll Engineering, a respected industry leader seeking to expand its skilled workforce.
With guidance from Griffey, Carroll Engineering took advantage of EKCEP’s workforce solutions program by participating in its On-the-Job Training (OJT) initiative. This program is designed to provide eligible individuals with invaluable hands-on training in real-world work settings, ensuring they gain industry-specific skills while earning a wage.
Simultaneously, Career Advisor Beth Edwards with the Kentucky Career Center in Harlan, was working closely with Turner, a client who demonstrated significant potential but required specialized training to thrive in the competitive job market. Recognizing the perfect synergy between Carroll Engineering’s need and Turner’s ambition, Edwards collaborated seamlessly with Griffey to prepare Turner for the OJT opportunity.
Turner’s placement in the OJT position at Carroll Engineering proved to be a resounding success. He gained comprehensive, paid experience in essential areas, including equipment maintenance and repair, field service operations, system calibration and testing, as well as crucial documentation and reporting. This intensive training not only equipped him with the necessary skills but also fostered his growth into a permanent, valued member of Carroll Engineering’s team.
This impactful outcome underscores EKCEP’s commitment to empowering individuals and bolstering the local economy. Griffey’s proactive employer outreach, Edwards’ dedicated client advocacy, and Carroll Engineering’s willingness to invest in local talent have created a ripple effect of success through the WIOA program. It has not only empowered Turner with a sustainable career path but also strengthened Carroll Engineering’s workforce and contributed to a more robust local economic landscape.
If you are an employer seeking help filling roles in your organization, please contact your nearest Kentucky Career Center and get help from a Business Solutions Consultant. Find your nearest location at https://ekcep.org/find-a-career/.
EKCEP, a nonprofit workforce development agency headquartered in Hazard, Ky., serves the citizens of 23 Appalachian coalfield counties. EKCEP is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, along with various federal and state grants and private donations. Learn more at ekcep.org.