Tyson Foods has awarded a $200,000 grant to the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrliton (UACCM), which will help the college train students for careers in poultry processing.
The grant is being awarded through Tyson Foods’ Ways We Care corporate giving program. With the grant, Tyson’s support gives it a naming opportunity for the workforce training and conference space in the college’s future Workforce Training Center.
The Tyson processing plant in Dardanelle, Arkansas, is an industry partner with UACCM, and several of the technical programs align with their workforce needs. Currently, six of their employees serve on technical advisory committees for the college. These programs include industrial mechanics and maintenance and commercial refrigeration. In addition, they serve on a focus group for a potential diesel mechanics program, as Tyson maintains their own fleet of trucks.
“As an Arkansas company, it’s important for us to invest in the people of our state," said Annetta Tirey, director of corporate social responsibility for Tyson Foods. “This training center will not only help close the skills gap for many already in the workforce, but also provides new opportunities for those seeking careers in high-demand job fields."
Of the donation, UACCM Chancellor Dr. Larry Davis said: “Our partnership with Tyson Foods has been a mutually beneficial endeavor. Almost 25 percent of Tyson’s maintenance staff is set to retire over the next year. This partnership is a great opportunity for UACCM to help fill that gap with students who have been trained, with Tyson’s help, to exceed industry standards. Their donation to the Give Meaning campaign, as well as their industry partnership, helps to ensure we are able to continue to offer the most comprehensive technical training available in Arkansas.”
