News Release
ETA News Release: [January 6, 2004]
Contact Name: Lorette Post
Phone Number: 202-693-3984
Secretary of Labor Awards $3 Million to Maricopa Workforce Connection
SAN FRANCISCO -- The U.S. Labor Department has awarded $3 million to Maricopa Workforce Connection, Inc., to train workers in the information technology (IT), engineering/manufacturing, and biotechnology fields.
"This Administration is committed to helping workers get the training they need to get good paying jobs," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This $3 million grant will be used to upgrade the skills of workers."
The grant will be used to upgrade the skills of 480 incumbent workers and 120 unemployed workers. Training will be provided through traditional classroom instruction, distance learning modules, interactive media, mentorship, flexible class scheduling, traditional technology labs and mobile computer labs. Project goals include jobs for unemployed workers and industry-recognized certifications or licenses for incumbent workers.
Partner employers and other partners are providing matching funds totaling $1.8 million.
"This grant illustrates the kind of workforce development partnerships we are encouraging to address the challenges facing 21st century businesses," said Emily Stover DeRocco, assistant secretary of labor for employment and training. "When businesses identify the skills their workforce needs, educators and our public workforce system can be key players in preparing workers for the highly skilled jobs in high-demand fields."
This grant and others totaling $19.4 million were awarded to local workforce investment boards that have local or regional public/private partnerships with business and community organizations.
Maricopa Workforce Connection Contact: Susan Schmidt 602-506-0854
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