Federal program helps workers start new careers, new lives - Oct. 26, 2006

06-091

Media contact: Bill Tarrow, 360-902-9376

Audio: http://fortress.wa.gov/esd/portal/info/newsroom/audiofiles/audio/

OLYMPIA - When Scott Brokaw was laid off from Vaagen Brothers Lumber in Republic after 10 years as a kiln operator, he had to rethink his future.

He began researching the medical field and set his sights on becoming a nurse.  Today, after three years of studies, he is now employed as a registered nurse at North Valley Hospital in Tonasket earning $17.50 per hour – 15 percent more than his previous wage. 

“It's my dream job,” he said.  “I get to help people every day.  Looking back at that difficult time, I never would have imagined that I would be working in a new career and so happy about it.” 

Scott is among thousands of workers who have found new jobs through the federal Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program, which is administered in Washington by the Employment Security Department.   

The program helps workers who have lost their jobs due to foreign competition or production shifts out of the United States. 

“People who lose their jobs due to trade-related competition often need help converting to new jobs,” said Karen Lee, commissioner of the Employment Security Department.  “The TAA program provides funding for training and other assistance to connect these workers with new opportunities for successful careers.”

In the past 12 months, 870 workers from 14 companies in Washington were deemed eligible for the program.  Another 973 participants who lost their jobs more than a year ago successfully completed the program and found new jobs at an average wage of $17.61 per hour.  The average pre-program wage was $20.35. 

To help improve their chances of successfully finding new work, participants are required to train for occupations that are needed in their local communities.  They can participate in training for up to 104 weeks.  Last year, 85 percent of individuals who participated in the TAA program found jobs.  

“Trade assistance is a lifeline for displaced workers and their families,” said Lynn Aue, a peer counselor for WorkSource.  “Without it, workers wouldn’t have the income support they need to pursue new careers and move forward to a better life.”

The benefits or services that workers receive depend on what is needed to return them to suitable employment.  Last year, TAA program participants in Washington received nearly $2.9 million for training, job-search assistance and relocation allowances.  

Certified workers can apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance services and benefits through their local WorkSource office.  There are more than 66 offices statewide.  

WorkSource is a partnership of business, government agencies, colleges and non-profit organizations that offer career services for job seekers and business.

Web Links
Locations of WorkSource offices

Resources for job seekers and businesses, including a searchable database of job listings

Information on occupations, wages and other economic trends