US Department of Labor awards grant to assist workers affected by layoffs at Michigan manufacturer

WASHINGTON — A $380,168 National Emergency Grant was announced today by the U.S. Department of Labor to provide employment-related services to about 65 workers affected by layoffs at AAR Mobility Systems in Cadillac, Mich.

"The department's funding will give these Michigan workers the opportunity find new jobs in expanding sectors within the state," said acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Eric Seleznow.

The grant, to be administered by Northwest Michigan Works!, was awarded to the Michigan Strategic Fund. Under the grant, affected workers will receive re-employment services focused on in-demand occupational fields. Workers will receive individual assessments, career counseling, job-search assistance, computer skills training, and on-the-job training.

Workers at AAR Mobility received a notice under the Worker Adjustment Retraining Notification Act in April 2013 of a mass layoff expected on May 31, 2013. The company is a division of AAR Manufacturing Inc. that specializes in producing rapidly deployable containers, shelters and pallet systems for the military.

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/.