Monday, December 17, 2007
Economy can absorb layoffs
Nearly 100 people are losing their jobs, depleting the workforce at one of Auburn’s major industries, but it’s not expected to hurt the local economy.
October 24, 2007
Nearly 100 people are losing their jobs, depleting the workforce at one of Auburn’s major industries, but it’s not expected to hurt the local economy.
Cary Cox, director of workforce development with Auburn Training Connection, said it’s unfortunate that 90 Briggs & Stratton employees will be out of jobs soon, but, “if there is ever going to be a time to be laid off, this is it.“
His optimism is based on the simple fact that Auburn has so much industry coming in right now, these people will be absorbed back into the workforce rather quickly.
“We’re booming right now. If you were going to be laid off and have bad news, this is a good time because we’ve got industry that’s expanding, we’ll have new industry coming in with the announcement of Kia, plus Kia hiring as well.
“We won’t have any problems placing these workers,“ he added.
ATC worked with Briggs & Stratton last year to conduct a job fair when 200 assembly line workers and machinists were laid off. Cox said a fair will not be held this time, but added that the state has programs for those workers interested in seeking assistance or training opportunities.
The industry Cox refers to is primarily associated with the Kia plant coming to West Point, Ga. Not only will it need workers, but existing suppliers of the motor company will need additional staff as well as new suppliers to Kia. Area economic development officials will not disclose the names of said suppliers.
Officials at Briggs & Stratton told employees of the job cuts at the start of each shift Monday.
“My understanding is it’s all weather-related,“ Cox said. It is in no way is a reflection on production or the quality of the company, he added, but simply with a lack of severe weather, demand for portable generators produced by Briggs & Stratton is down.
Briggs & Stratton is the world’s largest producer of air-cooled gasoline engines for outdoor power equipment, according to the company Web site.
Seasonality was the reason for last year’s job cuts as well.