TIre manufacturer Continental hosted the grand opening for the company’s new Employee Training Center in Clinton, Mississippi, on November 8. The ceremony, attended by Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant as well as federal, state and local governmental officials, marked a major milestone for the anticipated development. The total investment for the Continental manufacturing site under development in Mississippi is $1.45 billion.
“This a great day for Continental Tire and the State of Mississippi,” Gov. Bryant said. “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.”
“This is where our growth begins,” said Michael Egner, Project Manager. “The Training Center will support the recruitment and professional development that will drive the success of our employees in Clinton. I want to thank all of you who gathered with us today in support of this important project.”
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,” said Dr. Muse. “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.”
“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,” said Paul Williams, Executive Vice President, Truck Tires at Continental, the Americas region. “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 is the first completed structure in Continental‘s long-term growth strategy in Mississippi. 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.
For more information on career opportunities with Continental Tire in Clinton, Mississippi, visit www.continental-jobs.com.
