NSK Steering Systems America has been awarded $208,753 by the government to create a training program.

"Investment in NSK's Center for Excellence will provide training opportunities for Vermont workers for years to come," said Governor Scott Scott in a release Monday. "Supporting workforce development is critical to growing our economy and creating greater opportunity for Vermonters, making this grant program tremendously valuable for Vermont workers and our businesses."

The program is designed to, "broaden the capabilities of current and future employees."

"This Vermont Training Program Grant will assist NSK Steering Systems' Bennington facility in adapting to new technologies and remaining a strong supplier to the automotive industry," said Joan Goldstein, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Economic Development. "We are pleased that NSK's Bennington workforce will receive training for skills that will position them well for the future."

It will take one year to train 325 NSK employees.

"As NSK Steering Systems in Bennington enters its 30th year of manufacturing excellence, this training, in conjunction with our Continuous Improvement activities, will prepare the workforce for success in its forthcoming challenges," said Michael Allan, NSK Bennington plant manager.

The company make, "ball and roller bearings, linear motion technology, automotive components and steering systems," which are shipped in America and overseas.

The grant was awarded by the Vermont Department of Economic Development.