North Kingstown, Rhode Island - The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training has awarded Toray Plastics (America), Inc, a "Real Jobs Rhode Island" grant to develop a leadership training program. The $25,000 grant application was written in partnership with Astro-Med, Inc., of West Warwick, the University of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island Association of Manufacturers. The four organizations will work together to create the training program. Governor Gina M. Raimondo announced grant recipients on Friday, July 31, at a press event. The state launched "Real Jobs Rhode Island" for the purpose of identifying workforce needs for high-demand occupations, creating comprehensive training programs, and developing strategies for recruitment. The grant program is funded with federal and state funds, including $1.3 million from the Governor's Workforce Board.

"We are extremely honored to receive this important, generous training grant," says Mike Brandmeier, President and CEO, Toray Plastics (America). "The opportunity is a win for Toray and all grant recipients, jobseekers, and Rhode Island."  Brandmeier also notes that the "Real Jobs Partnership" is another excellent example of the power of collaboration between business, government, and educational institutions to help Rhode Island remain competitive and grow its economy.

The Rhode Island Department of Training and Labor explains that Real Jobs Rhode Island is a demand-driven, workforce and economic development initiative that is collaborative, flexible, and business-led. It is designed to ensure that Rhode Island employers have the talent they need to compete and grow while providing targeted education and skills training for Rhode Island workers. The goal of Real Jobs Rhode Island is to develop Real Jobs Partnerships (RJPs) that convene industry employers, key stakeholders, and groups in partnerships, which build alliances to address business workforce demands.