California earmarks US$26.7 million to support oil and gas sector workers

CALIFORNIA – The California Employment Development Department (EDD) announced US$26.7 million in grants to four organizations to help workers affected by the state’s transition to renewable energy.

The funds come from the California State Oil and Gas Dislocated Worker Fund and will go toward programs that provide training and support to employees in these sectors so they can access high-quality jobs in growing areas.

The award-winning organizations will work in partnership with businesses, educational institutions, community organizations, labor unions and labor brokers to develop training programs aligned with the demands of today’s labor market.

The programs will focus on preparing workers for jobs in sectors such as renewable energy, high-tech, construction, advanced manufacturing, nanotechnology and other certified high-growth, high-paying fields.

In addition to training and employment opportunities, the grants will also fund general support services for workers as they transition into new, stable roles with long-term growth potential.

Funding for the grants was requested by Governor Gavin Newsom and provided by the state Legislature. The fund is administered by EDD and the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency.

The four organizations receiving the grants were selected through a competitive application and evaluation process, highlighted by Kern/Inyo/Mono Consortium Workforce Area- Kern County Employers’ Training Resource; Steelworkers Charitable and Educational Organization; Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County; as well as Inter-City Services, Inc.