Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce President Jeff Griffin says the full economic impact of Caterpillar’s decision locally remains to be seen.
“The tentacles of Caterpillar with suppliers goes without saying,” says Griffin. “We’ll have to quantify that as time goes on, but the suppliers will be affected.”
Griffin says Caterpillar’s action will send qualified people into the local workforce.
“The known fact is you have a dedicated employee,” he explains. “Good employers can train a good attitude any day of the week.”
Griffin says networking services through the Chamber will be available for those affected locally by the layoffs.