The State Board for Community and Technical Colleges has awarded $1.1 million in matching grants for customized employee training programs for local businesses. The grants were awarded through the Job Skills Training Program, a dollar-for-dollar matching grant program where community and technical colleges deliver training to new or current employees at the work site or in a classroom, while businesses contribute at least 50 percent of training expenses through cash, in-kind payments, or a combination of both.

In Pierce County, SAFE Boats and Tacoma Community College were awarded $57,434 to provide training to certify employees in marine electrical, marine corrosion, and marine systems. Participants will sit for an exam to earn a five-year industry recognized credential, and they will also be eligible for advanced positions throughout the company.

A complete list of grant funding and recipients is available online here.