Spokane workforce area receives $4.5 million to aid workers - August 10, 2006

06-063

Media contact: Bill Tarrow, 360-902-9376

Audio: fortress.wa.gov/esd/portal/info/newsroom/audiofiles/Spokane.mp3/file_view

OLYMPIA– The Employment Security Department has released $4.5 million to the Spokane Area Workforce Development Council to provide employment and training assistance to youths and adults through June 2007.  

The council directs the design and delivery of employment and training services for residents in Spokane County in response to local economic conditions.  

“The best way to keep Washington competitive in the global economy is to ensure that our workers get the job assistance and training they need to succeed in the workplace,” said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee.  “These funds will help hundreds of workers move forward on a brighter future for themselves and their families.”

The money will be used to assist at-risk students, low-income adults who need help getting a job and workers who lose their jobs due to business downsizing or closure, foreign competition or technological change.  Types of services include skills assessment, individual counseling, job-readiness training and occupational training. Other services also may include job search, job referral and relocation assistance.  A goal of the adult programs is to meet employer demand for skilled, qualified workers. 

“These funds are a critical asset to the community and assist the council in developing local solutions to workforce issues,” said Mark Mattke, strategy and planning director for the council.  “We work closely with the businesses of our region to ensure that our workforce continues to meet their needs and has the necessary skills to assist companies’ growth and expansion.”

The Employment Security Department is the fiscal agent for federal Workforce Investment Act funds and ensures that the local Workforce Development Councils comply with federal laws and regulations on how the money is to be used.  Some $58 million will be distributed this year to the state’s 12 workforce development council areas based on population, unemployment and the number of disadvantaged people.

Individuals who need help finding a job or obtaining job training should visit their nearest WorkSource center.  Offices are listed online at www.go2worksource.com and in blue pages of the phone book.   Some programs and services are available only to individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements.

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

Information on occupations, wages and other economic trends

Spokane-Area Workforce Development Council