US Department of Labor to provide training and re-employment assistance to Minnesota workers affected by layoffs at Tyco Electronics

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $557,433 grant to provide training and supportive services to about 175 workers affected by layoffs at Tyco Electronics facilities in Eden Prairie and Shakopee, Minn.

"This grant will provide important training and employment services to workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The Labor Department is committed to helping these workers prepare for and obtain jobs in growing industries."

Awarded to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, the grant will provide job search and other assistance to these workers in conjunction with training they will receive as a result of their eligibility for Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits.

The two facilities were acquired by Tyco in December 2010 from ADC Telecommunications. While layoffs began in February 2010, the majority will be part of a wave that started in March 2011 and will occur through December. The Eden Prairie facility is scheduled to close, and remaining positions will be transferred to the Shakopee facility, where only a limited manufacturing operation will continue after restructuring.

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/.