FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Pat Schramm, pschramm@wdbscw.org or Danica Nilsestuen, dnilsestuen@wdbscw.org, 608.249.9001.
Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin to Offer Assistance, Resources to Workers Affected by Area Workforce Reductions
MADISON, WI, November 24, 2015 – The Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin (WDBSCW) announces the availability of workforce services and resources for workers affected by recent company layoffs and dislocations in the region.
The announcement comes in effort to help those workers facing mass layoffs or business closures get help with the transition.
“The increased activity of workforce reductions in our area over the last several months is something we’re very aware of and we are working closely with the companies and our workforce and community partners to offer resources to affected employees,” says WDBSCW CEO, Pat Schramm. “We want the community, the companies and most importantly, the workers, to know that we’re here and that we are positioned to help.”
The WDBSCW is working closely with workforce development and education partners to implement measures to offer retraining, recruiting and retooling services to try to match laid-off workers with potential employment.
“It’s never good news when you have layoffs from companies with so many individuals and families impacted, but this is what we do,” adds Schramm. “We’re experienced in helping workers transition and we’re taking careful measures to ensure we’re doing all that we can to help.”
A range of resources and services are available for workers who lose jobs through no fault of their own, including the dislocated worker program and rapid response services, in collaboration with the WorkSmart Network. The program, funded by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), provides re-employment and training services and supports to displaced workers. The services are available at no cost to workers of all skill levels affected by a company closing or downsizing. Affected workers should contact Kim Larson at 608.249.9001 x226 or klarson@wdbscw.org for more information on connecting to available WIOA and workforce services.
Companies and organizations interested in the recruitment of affected workers should contact Danica Nilsestuen at dnilsestuen@wdbscw.org.
About WDBSCW
Headquartered in Madison, the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin, is a private, non-profit organization that collaborates with businesses, workers and communities in the counties of Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Jefferson, Marquette and Sauk counties to promote a healthy economy. The Board’s vision is to build public and private partnerships that support innovation and excellence in workforce development. For more information about the Workforce Development Board, please visit wdbscw.org.