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Last updated 5:52 pm CT November 20, 2009.
Shawnee Development Council Helps Displaced Workers
More than 75 people will lose their jobs when Transcraft Corporation in Anna shuts down early next year.
The Shawnee Development Council in Karnak is already making plans to meet with displaced workers and let them know about their options, including going back to school.
Directors at Shawnee Development say Transcraft employees will be eligible for federal funds under the Workforce Investment Act.
The money will pay for employees to get back in the classroom or receive on the job training.
Aside from paid tuition, applicants may also receive book payments, child care, travel reimbursement and anything else necessary for their selected program.
Transcraft employees are being encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity for more training.
"It's rough out there. A lot of people who are out of work, a lot of businesses are shutting down and some skills that were viable ten years ago are not viable today," says Doris Martin with Shawnee Development Council.
Transcraft in Anna makes flatbed trailers for semis to haul construction equipment.
The company claims the housing slump is what led to closing the factory.
Transcraft and the Shawnee Development Council will put on a joint workshop at the Anna facility for all employees in December.
By: Christen Craig
ccraig@wsiltv.com
Now: 1258765680
