WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $462,000 grant to assist workers affected by layoffs at Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. in Columbia Falls, Mont.

“This grant will provide training and employment services to help these workers with the transition to new lines of work,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Brent R. Orrell. 

Today’s grant, awarded to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, will offer these individuals the full array of services available to dislocated workers, which may include skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling, occupational skills training and employment-related relocation.  Re-employment services will include training for in-demand occupations such as law enforcement and nursing, as well as in trades with apprenticeship programs, such as electrical and plumbing careers. 

On May 22, 2008, the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. announced a possible two-thirds reduction in production that would result in mass layoffs.  Layoffs occurred on July 22, 2008.

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 www.doleta.gov/NEG.