Representatives from local, state and federal agencies were on hand Friday to announce the grand opening for the Center for Workplace Learning at Grayson County College. Presenters applauded local agencies in particular for their cooperation with one another to make the transition from the CWL as an idea to a reality.

The CWL combined the grand opening with the announcement of a one million dollar grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. The grant was presented by Diane Rath, Texas Workforce Commissioner representing the public.

Grayson County College, Sherman Economic Development Corporation, Workforce Texoma and the Denison Development Alliance are credited with the success of CWL.

The mission of the Center is to be a gathering place where educators, private industry, and government in the Texoma region can come together to create innovative workplace learning solutions to improve business competitiveness, create job opportunities, and enhance the economic vitality of the region.

Tyson plant manager, Mike Gerleman, said more than 700 Tyson employees have trained at CWL. “Each orientation has around 100 to 120 people. Without (CWL) we would have to do that in a cramped room in the plant,” he said. Gerleman said his employees come to work at the plant more prepared after the three days of training at CWL. “We have to do some specialized training at the plant, but most of (the training) is done when they get here.”

Rath presented the CWL with an one million dollar grant to train Tyson employees. “I truly believe we’ve come full circle ... I’m just so honored and thrilled with what has occurred and to see ... everyone come together. This is truly an example of what is needed if we are to be successful and compete in the 21st century.” She said it is no longer Sherman and Denison competing for jobs, but rather Texoma competing with other areas for employers.