Skills training continues for workers in Massachusetts after company closures
with US Department of Labor funding

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $580,921 National Emergency Grant incremental award to provide continued training and other services to approximately 175 workers impacted by the closure of Mersen USA, a manufacturer in Newburyport, Mass., and Philips Lightolier, a lighting company in Wilmington, Mass.

"After a worker loses their job, updating their skills to align with those that employers demand is crucial to obtaining a new career," said Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Portia Wu. "The Labor Department is committed to making timely investments to help workers prepare themselves to succeed in new occupations and restore their economic security."

Awarded to the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, the funding will continue employment assistance to these workers in conjunction with training they receive as eligible recipients of Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits. The Merrimack Valley Workforce Investment Board manages reemployment services to the affected workers in close vicinity of the Mersen and Philips' facilities. A voucher component is available to allow workers to access services at an American Job Center near their homes.

On February 20, 2014, a NEG was approved for up to $1,222,904, with $641,983 released initially. This additional incremental funding of $580,921 represents the balance of the approved funding.

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.