In an effort to improve job growth for existing and new employers across the state, the state of Kentucky is making workforce services available in one centralized location.
Governor Steve Beshear laid out the details of the ‘WorkSmart Kentucky’ initiative Monday. The program involves matching employers with available workforce resources.
“Qualifying companies within the Commonwealth will be eligible for recruitment and job screening services at no cost. In addition, flexible grant funding will be available to offset the cost of customized and in house training needs,” said Beshear.
WorkSmart Kentucky is a partnership of the state’s Economic Development, Workforce Development, and Labor Cabinets along with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. The governor says the new program fits in well with the state’s emphasis on health care and educational improvements.
Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Larry Hayes says the initiative is partly aimed at branding job training services.
“In one place, one person delivering a message to someone looking for a place to make an investment to do business or for an existing company to be able to grow and to seek new employees to seek a higher skill level. We’re all gonna be able to deliver one message with one brand that we’re gonna be able to market,” said Haynes.
The new program will combine services found in three state cabinets and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. To offset training costs for eligible employers, grants will also be available.
