FRANKLIN—Paul D. Camp Community College has received $10,000 to expand its Warehouse and Distribution Operations Career Studies Certificate.

The Valley Proteins 4th Annual Award was given in response to the needs expressed by local employers, who are striving to keep up with the growth of The Port of Hampton Roads.

“We are excited to leverage the Valley Proteins Award into high-demand skills training and help people get good-paying jobs,” said PDCCC President Dr. Paul Wm. Conco. “This is a sweet spot for a community college — connecting people who want jobs with employers who need to hire folks with specific skills. This is a win-win scenario, and we are grateful for the opportunity.”

PDCCC developed its warehouse and distribution certificate several years ago, but funding only provided training for entry-level workers. Recently, high demand in the field prompted the area’s Regional Workforce Development Council to request a complementary curriculum in supply chain, logistics and supervision for mid-level management.

The Port of Hampton Roads has become a premier location for warehouse and distribution facilities, and major companies are looking to the surrounding areas for new construction sites.

“As industries continue to move forward and expand, the need for our workforce moves forward with it,” said Michael A. Smith, vice president of Valley Proteins. “We are proud to be part of the effort to ensure this career studies certificate program is keeping pace with the area’s demand.”

Valley Proteins is headquartered in Winchester and operates 12 plants in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas. Its processing facilities recycle food waste materials into usable products and bio fuels for feed and industrial applications.

This is the second time Paul D. Camp Community College has earned the award in four years.