$100 million in new apprenticeship investments, workforc e growth in North Carolina, women trailblazers, and more

$100 Million for Apprenticeships

On Tuesday, the Department announced investments in 28 public-private apprenticeship partnerships totaling nearly $100 million through the Apprenticeship: Closing the Skills Gap grant program. These grants will support the training of more than 92,000 individuals in new or expanded apprenticeship programs in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and information technologyincluding cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia made the announcement during a visit to North Carolina State University, one of the grantees.

Skills Training

During his trip to North Carolina, Secretary Scalia saw apprenticeships in action at EGGER Wood Products in Linwood. The apprentices he met with shared how they are gaining valuable skills that employers need. Secretary Scalia highlighted the Administration's actions to close the skills gap, cut red tape, and secure fair trade agreements that will create even more opportunities for American workers.

Workforce Growth in North Carolina

Secretary Scalia met with North Carolina business leaders, educators, and civic leaders this week. At a roundtable with the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, he discussed apprenticeships, deregulation, closing the skills gap and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. He also highlighted the importance of hiring veterans and promoted the Department's HIRE Vets Medallion Award during a meeting with Duke Energy officials and local leaders.

Women Trailblazers

The Department's Women's Bureau and Veterans' Employment and Training Service hosted "Women in Service: A Conversation with Four Military Leaders on Blazing Trails in the Armed Forces" to celebrate the achievements of women military leaders and identify opportunities for women to succeed in all industries and occupations.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Opioid Grant

The Department will provide up to $6,281,891 in dislocated worker grant funding to Maine to help workers impacted by the opioid crisis return to the workforce.

Fall Hazards

OSHA cited an Illinois homebuilder for exposing workers to falls, and proposed $333,968 in penalties for willful and repeat violations.

Back Pay

A Louisiana contractor has paid $78,038 in back wages and fringe benefits to 12 workers following a Wage and Hour Division investigation.

Safety Violations

OSHA cited a Georgia mulch manufacturer for amputation and struck-by hazards, and proposed $148,867 in penalties.

Financial Security

On February 27, during America Saves Week, join our free webinar for tips on building financial security for people with disabilities.

Discrimination Resolution

Time Warner Cable will pay $745,000 in back wages and interest to resolve allegations of hiring discrimination at three facilities.

STAT OF THE WEEK

Apprenticeship Boom

Employers have hired more than 705,000 new apprentices since the start of 2017.

COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE HIGHLIGHT

Union Officer Responsibilities

The Office of Labor-Management Standards has created a guide for new union officers on carrying out their duties in compliance with the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act.