Forty-five workers at a Clanton company will learn new job skills thanks to a $50,000 grant.

Southeastern Anodizing Co. (SEACO) — a metal finishing, fabrication and assembly company — will enlist instructors to provide year-long training to its incumbent (already on staff) workers. Areas of focus will include quality management, work flow, continuous improvement, inventory management, and leadership.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administered the grant, which was made possible through federal stimulus funds. The grant was awarded by Gov. Bob Riley’s office.

“While many firms are sitting on the sidelines waiting for the current economic slowdown to take a positive turn, Southeastern Anodizing Company is using the opportunity to strengthen its competitive position in the World Marketplace,” General Manager Austin Brewer said. “Obviously, we understand it’s not the engineers and management that makes a company successful. It’s the people.”

In operation since 1997, SEACO is a supplier for the aerospace, agriculture, automotive and construction industries. They are currently doing components for Mercedes, Toyota, Nissan and Chevrolet.

Examples of non-automotive projects include power equipment, lighting, and wind-proof sign hangers for Interstate signing.

Anodizing is an environmentally safe electrochemical process that converts the aluminum metal surface into a porous aluminum oxide, ultimately creating an end product whose finish is more durable and weather-resistant. This result, combined with an array of color finishes, opens up many application possibilities for companies who anodize products and components in commercial, industrial, and consumer applications, even jewelry and artwork.

Company officials estimate the training will boost efficiency by 10 percent and increase sales by 15 percent within two years after the training is completed. The long-term earning potential of employees who complete the training also will increase, company officials said.

“In today’s economy, Alabamians must continue to upgrade their skills to remain competitive,” Riley said. “By learning new skills, these employees will strengthen their company while expanding their opportunities for advancement.”