WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the award of a $5 million dislocated worker demonstration grant to North Carolina to be used in helping BRAC-affected civilian workers transition from on-base jobs to careers in high-tech industry clusters.

“This $5 million grant will help workers from Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base transition to rewarding careers in high-growth, high-tech industries,” said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao.

The BRAC Regional Taskforce, a coalition of several North Carolina workforce development boards, universities, community colleges, K-12 school districts and economic development commissions, will use today’s funding to plan for regional transformation and ensure that workers are prepared for high-tech jobs in support of national military preparedness and homeland security. The task force will be responsible for: leveraging workforce, economic, and educational resources to support emerging industries; connecting the region’s workforce with education and career opportunities; and connecting military, business and industry representatives with workforce development activities.

“Programs funded by this award will lead workers in this North Carolina regional economy to higher-paying, high-tech careers,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco. “This pilot project will not only help North Carolina weather economic changes, but also provide the region the opportunity to develop a pool of skilled workers who are prepared to succeed in today’s competitive global economy.”

For more information on the Department of Labor’s employment and training programs, please visit www.doleta.gov.