Manufacturer launches workforce development program in Alabama

A transportation-focused manufacturing giant has launched a major new workforce development initiative in Alabama.

New Flyer of America has kicked off its Anniston Workforce Development Program under the Community Benefits Framework and alongside the Transportation Diversity Council (TDC).

With the program, New Flyer is boosting local community outreach and recruiting and is also committing to placing groups of people not traditionally employed in the bus manufacturing industry into the workforce, including underrepresented, underserved and/or disadvantaged individuals.

As we’ve noted, workforce development has been a critical priority for Alabama over the past few years – particularly prior to the pandemic. But experts have said the disruption in the economy resulting from Covid-19 will make workforce efforts pivotal to the recovery effort as the economy evolves.

New Flyer also committed to partnering with community-based organizations and schools on recruitment, delivering intensive on-the-job and classroom training and supporting pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs – including development of a four-year electrical technician apprenticeship program which launches in early 2021.

“Having launched our community benefits famework earlier this year, we’re now thrilled to bring this local program to life in Anniston alongside TDC,” said Chris Stoddart, president of New Flyer. “As our world continues to evolve amid the adoption of zero-emission mobility, we know we can – and we must – continue to improve our approach to workforce development, diversity, and inclusion. We pursue improvement not just for our team members, but for the community and the industry as a whole, and look forward to augmenting this critical work in the months and years ahead.”

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