Employment help for AC casino workers

Atlantic City casino workers faced with the threat of unemployment are getting a helping hand from New Jersey.

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development is taking a proactive approach to helping Atlantic City casino workers recently let go and those facing layoffs due to the possible closings of Revel, Showboat and Trump Plaza.  A Rapid Response team has been deployed to the city to assist workers find new employment opportunities. The team was established by LWD to provide information, referrals and counseling to workers who are subject to mass layoffs.

"We go in, we explain unemployment, we explain employment services, we explain their training options. We're looking at moving some of the people that have a great skill set, possibly training them in areas that are more in demand," said Elaine Williams, a business representative for Atlantic and Cape May Counties with LWD.

A number of Rapid Response events are scheduled to take place this month in an effort to help workers find new jobs. In addition, the team also provides information on various educational opportunities available to workers.

"The Department of Labor is always looking at ways to educate and train people so they will be in a demand occupation and secure," Williams said.

Workers can take advantage of using a manufacturing grant that will provide training for slot mechanics for other specialized jobs.  Resume workshops and basic computer classes are also available for workers.

The Rapid Response events are scheduled from August 18 through August 28 with sessions taking place as early as 7:30 a.m. and as late as 10 p.m.  A session will also be held on a Saturday to accommodate as many people as possible.

More than 6,500 Atlantic City casino employees recently received notices warning them in advance of scheduled closings or layoffs.

Anyone needing help with unemployment or employment information can go to http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/.