Diplomas for Denimatrix Employees in Guatemala
Nearly 100 employees of Guatemala denim mill Denimatrix received their diploma thanks to a continuing-education program organized by the company.
Denimatrix is part of the textile and apparel division the Plains Cotton Cooperative Association (PCCA), based in Lubbock, Texas.
“We believe the best way to improve society and provide better opportunities for our employees is through education,” said PCCA President and Chief Executive Officer Wally Darneille. “It is remarkable how many of our employees are involved in continuing their education,” he added, “and making this opportunity available is another example of our commitment to social responsibility.”
Denimatrix’s Guatemala City facility has a continuing-education center, where the classes were held after-hours and on weekends.
Last year, more than 370 Denimatrix employees enrolled in the fully accredited program, which is run by the Rotterdam School in Guatemala and provides teachers and sets the curriculum. The 98 graduates are eligible to apply for admission to a university. Since 2009, more than 300 Denimatrix employees have earned their diplomas through the program.
“This accomplishment takes great dedication and motivation, and it is nothing short of remarkable,” said PCCA Vice President of Administration and Human Resources Jim Taylor. “These employees attend the school voluntarily, on their own time, at their own expense, and often travel long distances to be in class. Meanwhile, they work at Denimatrix, have families to care for and must study to prepare for their lessons.”
Denimatrix was founded in 2009 by PCCA to produce premium-denim jeans. PCCA is a farmer-owned cotton-marketing cooperative with 10,000 members in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and New Mexico. Its Textile and Apparel Division includes Denimatrix and the American Cotton Growers Denim Mill in Littlefield, Texas.—A.A.N.
