US Department of Labor announces continued re-employment assistance to support Minnesota workers impacted by defense industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $64,499 National Emergency Grant supplemental award to continue to provide services to 198 workers affected by layoffs at BAE Systems Inc. in Fridley, Minn.

"Continued access to quality training and job search services is a crucial component in helping Minnesotans find re-employment in today's challenging labor market," said Jane Oates, assistant secretary for the department's Employment and Training Administration.

These supplemental funds, awarded to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, will continue the delivery of re-employment assistance to the 183 workers included in the initial award, and will provide services to an additional 15 workers added after the project's initial implementation.

Layoffs at BAE Systems Inc. occurred between June 2009 and June 2010, following the company's loss of a large U.S. Department of Defense contract for canon systems. On March 4, 2010, a $786,901 grant was awarded to provide assistance to the affected workers, including skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling and occupational skills training.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG.