(CNMI DOL) — In response to recent business closures impacting our workforce, the CNMI Department of Labor has activated Rapid Response under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. This initiative aims to provide immediate assistance to affected workers and reinforce the Commonwealth’s economic stability.
Comprehensive Support for Affected Workers
The Rapid Response Team, comprising experts from workforce development entities, education and training providers, and other stakeholders, is actively collaborating with businesses that have announced closures. Efforts include pre-layoff assistance through information sessions detailing available programs and services within the CNMI’s public workforce system. These encompass WIOA core programs such as the DOL Workforce Investment Agency, NMC Adult Basic Education, and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Additionally, the Division of Employment Services facilitates registration on the CNMI Job Bank found at https://labor.cnmi.gov/, providing access to current job vacancies and labor market information. Assistance is also available for various public assistance programs, including the Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid, Sliding Fee Program, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Section 8 housing, and services offered by the Salvation Army.
Enhanced Training and Career Services
To equip displaced workers with essential skills, DOL offers onsite registration for the WIOA Dislocated Worker Program. Resource coordinators conduct follow-ups to ensure continuous support. Training opportunities include resume writing workshops, interview etiquette sessions, and English Language Learner basic training for interviews. The WIA Career Services Team provides individualized career counseling and ongoing guidance to facilitate successful transitions. Additionally, CNMI DOL’s Employment Services Division in collaboration with WIA will be hosting an islandwide job fair in July. Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to look out for the registration for the event in the coming month.
Strategic Partnerships with Businesses
Recognizing the importance of collaboration, the WIA works closely with businesses willing to absorb displaced employees. Through short-term customized training programs, companies can upskill incumbent workers, fostering long-term benefits and creating opportunities for new entry-level staff. Participating businesses are eligible for a 50% reimbursement of salaries via programs like the Registered Apprenticeship Program and On-the-Job Training. The WIA team also offers technical assistance for the Work-Based Sponsor Application and Registered Apprenticeship registration.
Investing in Workforce Development Yields Tangible Benefits
Investing in employee training not only enhances individual skills but also delivers substantial returns for businesses. There are many case studies that support this. Such studies indicate that companies prioritizing employee training report 24% higher profit margins compared to those that do not. Furthermore, 94% of employees express a willingness to stay longer at companies that invest in their career development. Such investments lead to higher retention rates, reduced hiring costs, and improved organizational performance.
Join Us in Strengthening Our CNMI Workforce
Businesses interested in becoming work sponsors or seeking more information about available programs are encouraged to contact the WIA team at 670-488-1720/2312/2324, visit Building #1353 on Capitol Hill, or email cnmiwioa@dol.gov.mp/. Additional resources and information are available on https://www.labor.gov.mp and https://www.cnmiwioa.gov.mp/.
“Together, we can navigate these challenges and build a resilient, skilled workforce for the future of the CNMI.”
