ARDMORE, Okla., – Institutions of higher education and CareerTech in Southern Oklahoma are partnering to provide career pathways for Michelin employees affected by the announcement made on October 26 to wind down Ardmore plant operations.
“The wind-down decision impacts approximately 1,400 people associated with tire-manufacturing activities (excluding additional contractors) at the Ardmore site,” read the Michelin North America online statement.
Superintendent Ward, and Presidents Faltyn, Newsom and Godwin are committed to offering educational opportunities that allow for the affected employees to re-tool, upskill or change career paths altogether.
“Our hearts go out to the Ardmore community and those individuals and families that are affected by this decision," said East Central University president Wendell Godwin.
“Together, we’re finding solutions that meet these employees where they are, to get them where they want to be,” said Murray State College president Dr. Tim Faltyn. “Our goal is to help them be successful and maintain the ability to care for their families and live in our communities.”
Each institution has centers of excellence that provide training that can be useful for the displaced workers. Financial assistance will be made available to anyone seeking training with these partners.
“Southern Oklahoma is at its best when our institutions of higher education work hand-in-hand to support our economic health,” said Southeastern Oklahoma State president Dr. Thomas Newsom. “We will work for the success of the people in our region and offer programs that can improve their lives."
More information will be released regarding the programs and services available at each institution in the coming weeks.
Media Contacts:
East Central University:
Blake Allen | ballen@ecok.edu | 580-559-5664
Murray State College:
Robyn Peterson | rpeterson@mscok.edu | 580-387-7146
Southeastern Oklahoma State University:
Josh Manck | jmanck@se.edu | 580-745-2731
SouthernTech:
Erica Gay | egay@sotech.edu | 580-224-8206