The Iowa Workforce Development has been hands-on in supporting Tyson employees in Perry following the announcement of the closure of the plant at the end of June.

Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend tells Raccoon Valley Radio that their company plans for situations like the Tyson closure in order to offer immediate assistance. She describes that their rapid response team meets with both the employees and employer to schedule information meetings, helping individuals complete job applications, as well as a host of other areas. Townsend highlights that Tyson is working well with the development team.

“Tyson’s been very good and very helpful to make resources available to us in terms of providing location for us to set up the union or set up the transition office. They’ve been very easy to work with, and we’re very appreciative of that.”

Townsend adds that the development team coordinates with employers around the area, and is currently working with nonprofit organizations to further assist with workers affected in the Perry community.