“This is where our growth begins,” says Michael Egner, project manager. “The training center will support the recruitment and professional development that will drive the success of our employees in Clinton.”
The training center is equipped with classrooms, computer labs and technical equipment that will be used for job interviews, new employee orientation and training. Additionally, Continental’s partnership with Hinds Community College will drive employment and professional development at the facility.
“Continental Tire is a major employer that will have a positive economic impact on Hinds County and the surrounding communities,” says Dr. Clyde Muse, president, Hinds Community College. “Hinds Community College is excited to serve as Continental’s training partner; not only ensuring that we support them in developing a highly skilled workforce, but also to provide on-going training for professional growth and development of their workforce as the plant expands. Every job offered at Continental Tire creates an opportunity for someone to improve their quality of life. We will remain committed to supporting their educational and training endeavors for many years to come.”
Paul Williams, executive vice president, truck tires at Continental, the Americas region, says, “Continental’s Commercial Vehicle Tire business throughout the Americas region has been growing significantly over the past years as we have continued to introduce leading products, technology, services and solutions designed specifically for our trucking and transportation fleet customers. This training center is the first step in a long journey of ensuring top quality jobs for our employees in Clinton and with that also setting the foundation to manufacture premium quality products for our customers.”
The training center will support recruitment and retention for Continental’s commercial vehicle tire plant. Additionally, the training center will be used for the company’s sales team as well as for special events for Continental’s customers. By the time the tire plant officially starts production in 2020, around 400 employees will be hired. Approximately 2,500 jobs will be created by 2028.
“This a great day for Continental Tire and the State of Mississippi,” Gov. Bryant says. “This training center is state-of-the-art and will facilitate jobs for Mississippians for years to come. Workforce training is vital to a healthy economy and something that has been a priority of mine since taking office. We are thrilled to have Continental Tire as a business partner in Mississippi.”
