Link Industries Creates Machinists from Local Residents
Finding skilled trade employees is getting harder in Michigan, but demand is increasing. Instead of sitting around, Link Industries of Indian River has taken it upon themselves to work with Michigan Works! and develop an On-The-Job Training Program (OJT) to help fill their employment needs. This OJT program has allowed them to hire new employees without experience and train them to be cutting tool precision machinists.
Area job seeker Paul Manning had worked in a plastic factory prior to applying to Link, but he lacked the proper skills needed at Link. Link General Manager, Jeff Veryser, worked with Michigan Works! Business Services Professional Niki Chamberlain to develop an OJT plan for Paul to become a Grinder/Mill Hand. After the 13 weeks of training, Paul received a credential for completing the training requirements outlined on the training plan.
Paul has been employed with Link now since January 2015. He has received excellent reviews and is very thankful for this opportunity to earn a good wage without having to relocate.
“I’m learning new skills sets, and I’m grateful because up here, there aren’t a lot of jobs. The Michigan Works! Cheboygan Office has been great to work with and has definitely made it very easy for me to obtain a new skill to be hired at Link,” said Paul.
Established in Michigan and proud to say Made in the USA since 1935, Link Industries is a manufacturer of cutting tools focusing on center drills, combination drills and countersinks. They specialize in high-speed steel, offering tools with custom cutting profiles, as well as a complete line of standard tools. Since January 2015, Link has hired 4 employees and plans to hire more as they continue to grow.