ALBERVILLE— Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded a $20,000 grant to help a Marshall County farming operation provide work skills training to 16 machine maintenance employees.
The training for Wayne Farms is enabling the company to preserve existing jobs and create five new ones. The Albertville company will use the funds to train employees to troubleshoot and repair equipment, minimizing work interruptions and reducing maintenance costs. The training begins immediately and will be completed over the course of a year.
![Governor Robert Bentley](https://i0.wp.com/quadcitiesdaily.com.s140587.gridserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/robert-bentley-2011-150x119.jpg?resize=150%2C119&ssl=1)
Governor Robert Bentley
“Employees who gain new skills and increase their knowledge not only help boost productivity, they also can help maintain and even create new jobs,” Bentley said. “By helping Wayne Farms to become more efficient, this training will provide more employment opportunities for Marshall County residents.”
Wayne Farms produces and processes fresh poultry products and currently employs 800 full-time workers in Marshall
![Melissa Deason](https://i0.wp.com/quadcitiesdaily.com.s140587.gridserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Melissa-Deason.jpg?resize=122%2C122&ssl=1)
Melissa Deason
County. Matching funds of $20,215 will supplement the grant.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Labor. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy conservation, water resource management, job training and career development.
Bentley notified Melissa Deason, Wayne Farms human resources manager, that he approved the grant.