The U.S. Department of Labor is paying for the training to boost the skills of those who work at small and mid-sized manufacturers in 31 rural Washington counties as part of a larger grant dubbed "Make it in Washington."

"This is a great way for businesses to grow their employees into more productive, valuable members of the team, right where they live," said grant manager Mike Brennan, an economic development specialist with the state's Workforce Board. "Because all training is online, it allows motivated manufacturing employees to advance their education from all parts of the state, at all levels of education."

A $2.7 million federal grant is helping manufacturing businesses across Washington pay for worker training at nearly no cost. It's an opportunity for local workers at participating businesses to receive fully-paid tuition for a variety of targeted training options — from purchasing and supply chain management to freight forwarding.

In addition to the course offerings at both the community college and university level for employees, qualifying manufacturers may also receive a free business assessment from Impact Washington, to help plan for improvement and growth.

Employees are able to get their training through Highline and Shoreline community colleges, and may also be eligible to take undergraduate and graduate courses through Washington State University. Training is focused on industry-relevant areas such as supply chain management, international trade and logistics. Undergraduate and graduate courses expand into project management, manufacturing leadership and Six Sigma certification.

The Shoreline and Highline community colleges' fall deadlines are in September. This is the final year of the grant and funds are limited.

For more information on how to register for fall classes by contacting Mike Brennan at mike.brennan@wtb.wa.gov or call him at 360-709-4616. More details at: wtb.wa.gov/MakeitInWashington.asp.