Press Release
U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.7 Million to Help Establish a New Occupational Training Center in Clinton
Contact: EDA Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
October 11, 2017
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross today announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.7 million grant to Sampson Community College of Clinton, North Carolina, to construct an occupational training facility to support welding and metal fabrication skills. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 50 jobs, retain 24 jobs, and spur $8.8 million in private investment.
“Ensuring that American workers have the skills they need to support businesses facing global competition is a key focus of the Trump Administration,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “Through the completion of this project, thousands of workers in the region can gain invaluable skills, ensuring the continued prosperity of the community of Clinton.”
Advanced metal working expertise will support disaster recovery of local and regional businesses, and economic diversification into advanced manufacturing, including metal products to the nuclear power sector. This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Southeastern Economic Development Commission. EDA funds Southeastern Economic Development Commission to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment, and create jobs.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.