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OLYMPIA (Aug. 4, 2022) — The State of Washington is offering grants to expand capacity at state-registered apprenticeships. Who can get them and how do you apply?

With Congress’ failure to reauthorize it, the Trade Adjustment Assistance program is now sunsetting. What does that mean for workers receiving TAA benefits?

Which community and technical colleges in Washington need folks with labor expertise to serve on College Advisory Committees to improve their training programs?

These are the kinds of questions answered in the quarterly newsletter of the Workforce Development Department of the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO. It’s a must-read for those interested in apprenticeship and workforce training issues in our state. Click here to get on the email distribution list.

Here are some excerpts from the 2022 3rd Quarter edition of the WDD newsletter that was issued this week:

Applications Open for New Apprenticeship Funding Opportunities — The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) announced an opportunity for funds that support registered apprenticeships. More than $8 million in grants and project funds are available. The intent of these funds is to expand capacity for state-registered apprenticeship programs, provide equipment upgrades, and ensure apprentices have access to a broad suite of student support services. Funding opportunities include: Technology and Remote Learning ($2.37 million); Upgrading Equipment ($3.8 million); Driver Education Course Voucher for Minors ($12,000); Wrap-Around Support Services ($1.9 million). Click here for more details, including how to apply.

TAA Enters Sunset Provisions — The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program entered its sunset provision on July 1, 2022. Until Congress acts to reauthorize the program, the U.S. Department of Labor may not issue new determinations or process new TAA petitions, however there are funds to carry out worker training plans that already exist. The WSLC Workforce Development Department is actively tracking TAA reauthorization and the changes occurring under the sunset provisions.

Workers receiving TAA benefits should be unaffected by the TAA sunset provision. Workers who were certified and separated from their job on or before June 30, 2022, may still be eligible for benefits and services. It is crucial for workers who may be eligible to reach out and file for their potential TAA benefits. Workers should contact their nearest WorkSource and ask for someone from the TAA unit.

We Want You to Serve on Community and Technical College Advisory Committees — Do you want to put your “labor expertise” to work at the Community/ Technical College near you? We need your help to improve professional/ technical training programs for the benefit of our future workforce.

Currently, your knowledge and expertise is needed at Peninsula College, Edmonds College, Green River College, Renton Technical College, Cascadia College, Everett College and Lake Washington Institute of Technology. If you or someone within your labor union would like more information and/or want to volunteer your time, please contact Kairie Pierce, Lead Workforce Development Director, via email or by calling 360-791-1583.

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From initial entry to the workforce, to career transition, and when facing job loss, the WSLC’s Workforce Development Department seeks to ensure universal access to portable skills and a voice in career development, continuity for those navigating the workforce system, and an economy that works for both workers and businesses. Learn more here.