Whirlpool hosts Labor Secretary at Clyde plant

Whirlpool Corporation showcased its apprenticeship and workforce training programs during a visit from Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling to its United States — Clyde, Ohio facility, the world's largest washing machine factory. The visit highlighted Whirlpool's $300 million investment in its U.S. laundry operations, including modernization of the Clyde plant and construction of a new facility in United States — Perrysburg, Ohio. Sonderling met with apprentices and toured the training academy, and also convened a workforce roundtable with U.S. Senator Jon Husted and local business leaders at Owens Community College. Whirlpool emphasized its nearly 70-year-old apprenticeship program, which provides debt-free training for skilled trades, and its broader workforce development initiatives, including tuition reimbursement and certification programs. The company is the only major American-owned appliance manufacturer, building 80% of what it sells in the U.S. and sourcing 96% of its steel domestically.