North-Central workforce area receives $3.6 million to build skills of local labor force - August 8, 2007
07-054
Media contacts:
Bill Tarrow,
360-902-9376
Dave Petersen,
509-663-3091
Audio: http://fortress.wa.gov/esd/portal/info/newsroom/audiofiles/audionews
OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department has released $3.6 million to the North-Central Workforce Development Council to help workers upgrade their skills and find new jobs through June 2008. The region’s allocations decreased by $320,000 compared to last year.
The workforce council oversees the design and delivery of employment and training services for residents in Adams, Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties. The services are delivered through WorkSource career centers.
Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee said that the funding reduction is due to the region’s lower unemployment rates, but that many employers are still struggling to find qualified workers in industries such as health care, technology and construction.
“This investment will help hundreds of workers upgrade their skills so they can qualify for better jobs and make a better future for themselves and their families,” said Lee.
The money must be used to assist laid-off workers, adults and young people who have dropped out or are at risk of dropping out of school. Types of services include counseling, skill assessments, job-search assistance, training and job referrals.
Last year’s workforce allocation was used provide basic education and occupational training to some 630 people, with 440 finding jobs. Further, a special training initiative was launched to train, re-employ or relocate 75 workers laid off by the Winston Sawmill closure.
“These federal funds are essential to improving the prosperity of employees and the profitability of employers,” said Dave Petersen, director of the council. “In the coming year, we will strengthen our relationships with business, education and other partners to make a difference for workers and owners alike.”
The Employment Security Department is the fiscal agent for federal Workforce Investment Act funds. The department ensures that the local workforce development councils comply with federal laws and regulations on how the money is to be used.
Some $52 million in federal Workforce Investment Act funds will be distributed this year to the state’s 12 workforce development council areas based on population, unemployment and the number of disadvantaged people. Due to Washington’s strong economy, this year’s overall federal allocation has been cut by more than $ 5 million statewide.
Individuals who need help finding a job or obtaining job training should visit their nearest WorkSource office. Offices are listed online at www.go2worksource.com and in government pages of the phone book. Some programs and services are available only to individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements.
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