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Iowa Workforce Development announces National Dislocated Worker Grant recipients

DES MOINES – Today, Iowa Workforce Development announced that four local areas will receive the National Dislocated Worker Grant to assist 173 dislocated workers impacted by the flooding across Iowa in Spring 2019. The U.S. Department of Labor awards the grant to fund employment and training assistance as directed by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

“State, local, and federal coordination is vital to the success of our integrated and regional long-term flood recovery plan,” said Gov. Reynolds. “I appreciate the President and his administration for providing relief to Iowa communities who lost everything in the floods. We have a long way to go, but Iowans know how to get the job done.”

“Not only does this grant support temporary employment solutions for dislocated workers, but it also assists with recovery efforts within local communities impacted by the flooding,” said Beth Townsend, Director, Iowa Workforce Development. “Local areas can use the grant to support participant wages, supportive services, and worksite supplies, which help participants stay connected to employment opportunities in their region.”

Recipients of the grant include the following regions:

Eligible participants of the National Dislocated Worker Grant include: 

• Individuals who are temporarily or permanently laid off as a consequence of the natural disaster.
• Eligible as a dislocated worker as defined in WIOA Section 3(15). Refer to state policy for additional criteria.
• Individuals who are self-employed and become unemployed or significantly underemployed as a result of the disaster.
• Long-term unemployed workers (defined in Iowa as 27 or more consecutive weeks).

For more information about the National Dislocated Worker Grant, visit www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/NDWG

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Gov. Reynolds Announces Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund Recipients

DES MOINES – Today, Governor Kim Reynolds announced the first 13 recipients of the new Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund, a matching grant designed to help employers carry out solutions to help their employees achieve postsecondary training and education. The first round of Employer Innovation Fund Grants will distribute over $400,000 in funds to employers across the state.

“The Employer Innovation Fund drives innovation in meeting the workforce challenges of today and tomorrow,” said Gov. Reynolds. “These public-private partnerships address barriers for Iowans looking to get the training they need for a life-changing career. The collaboration happening at the grassroots level serves as a catalyst for Future Ready Iowa’s continued success. 

The purpose of the grant is to provide opportunities for working Iowans to earn non-credit and for-credit postsecondary credentials leading to high-demand jobs in the state. Employers, community leaders and others can apply by submitting a proposal for implementing a creative solution to their local workforce needs.

“Employers are a critical part of reaching our Future Ready Iowa goal of having 70 percent of Iowans with postsecondary credentials by 2025,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “The Employer Innovation Fund is unique because it empowers employers to find creative ways to strengthen their local workforce and build upon Iowa’s talent pipeline.”

Employer Innovation Fund Recipients include:

• Ruan/Des Moines Area Community College - The grant will provide support for 3 students, who are currently employees of Ruan, to participate in DMACC's Employer Sponsored Technology Pathway program that will include two parts of the Code DSM training.  The match is being paid by Ruan Transportation Management Systems. DMACC will make an effort to recruit underrepresented groups to participate in the program and to qualify the student must be a high school graduate with no post-secondary credential.  
• Four Oaks Family and Children's Services - Four Oaks' Total Child Workforce (TCW), will, in an effort to reach underserved youth who are not currently being reached by traditional education to employment programs, enroll 30 youth in Linn County in a program that will provide soft skill training, mentoring, and 4-week internships. Each participant will receive a weekly stipend to cover child care, transportation and food security and will learn about financial responsibilities promoting family stability during the program.  Internships will take place at local employers Van Meter Inc. (electrical distribution industry), Mercy Medical Center (health care), Toyota Financial Services (customer service in financial industry). Each participant will include a success coach to help them find and keep jobs in high-demand industries and/or training and education programs.
• Kirkwood Community Colleges and Iowa City-Cedar Rapids (ICRIowa) - The Expanding Credentials through Pathways program will target 60 high school students with 25% representing marginalized and diverse populations.  Participants will complete a post-secondary CTE credential, earn high school credit, and participate in WBL that will lead to the pursuit of training in high demand occupations by working with local employers including TSF Structures, Inc., UnityPoint Health, Oak Street Manufacturers, BM&F Inc., and Cummins Manufacturing.  
• New Bohemian Innovation Collaborative - A 501(c)(3) organization that wants to award 10 scholarships to students for their Delta V coding program as part of their Diversity Tuition Award Program.  Scholarships would cover tuition, a laptop and textbooks. The program is 20 weeks long and 95% of past graduates have secured employment in the IT industry within 180 days of course completion, with an average starting salary of $70,000.  The scholarships will be targeted at low income and other underrepresented groups in the IT industries.
• Central College-Pella Talent Pipeline Apprenticeship School - Provides core curriculum for high-demand occupations with a primary focus of providing wrap around services for individuals seeking apprenticeship opportunities after high school.  The integrated system will provide professional mentorship as well as opportunities for participants to earn high demand stackable credentials and associates degrees in addition to completing apprenticeships.  The programs will guide students in a purposeful way from high school to adulthood and meaningful employment. The leading cohort for this project represent Pella Corporation, Vermeer, Precision Inc., Pella Community Schools, DMACC, Central College and the PACE Alliance.
• Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque – Enhance Opportunity Dubuque program.  This program will increase the skilled workforce through child care support for students while they obtain training at Northeast Iowa Community College in high-demand certificate programs in construction, health care, manufacturing and more.  Eligible students include low-skilled, under and unemployed individuals. The program will fund licensed child care for students while they are enrolled in training and for up to 12 months after obtaining eligible, full-time employment as the payer of last as the parent achieves self-sufficiency to afford ongoing costs of child care. Project outcomes, 50 parents will enroll and utilize the child care support to complete training and 40 graduates will move into full-time employment with child care support for 12 months.
• Oskaloosa School District- Partnering with Musco, Clow, Oskaloosa Engineering & Manufacturing, Interpower, Mahaska Health Partnership, Cunningham, Oskaloosa Chamber, Oskaloosa Education Foundation, Mahaska Recreation Foundation and Mahaska Economic Development.  This project will increase the number of students gaining post-secondary education in the form of certificates and employment in high demand fields by providing transportation for students to attend Career Academies at Indian Hills Community College.  Currently students must transport themselves to take advantage of these programs which is a financial barrier to over 50% of the area population. This project will include the communities of Oskaloosa, Eddyville/Blakesburg and North Mahaska.
• Franklin County Development Association -  The Association is partnering with Buresh Buildings, La Luz Hispana, a Latino outreach center, and North Iowa Area Community College.  This program seeks to increase awareness and understanding of high demand jobs in the area by addressing misconceptions and to provide funding support to address barriers such as books, childcare, fees, tools and transportation.  Transportation for individuals from the most densely populated area of the county, Hampton, requires a 30 or 45 minute drive to access training and the cost of this transportation as well as the child care required can make attending cost prohibitive.  The program will support 2-4 students enrolled in programs that lead to employment in high demand fields.
• McNeilus Companies – McNeilus, an Oshkosh Corporation is a leading manufacturer of refuse collection vehicles, concrete mixers and batch plants in North America.  Iowa Contract Fabricators Inc has been acquired by McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing. This location is in Riceville, Iowa and will be drawing employees from Northern and Central Iowa including Mason City and Charles City.  The company will partner with Riverland Community College to offer best in class welding training to individuals who have no welding skills. This model has proved successful in other locations. The Riceville location is short 20 welding positions and this program will bring the weld training on-site via the Riverland weld training trailer.  Three classes of 8 people per class will be held, with a goal of 20% diverse or underrepresented individuals who face barriers to employment. During the training students receive 95% of the base rate of full welders pay. Weld trainees then receive on the job training to meet key metrics and be promoted to welder. Individuals who need more on-the-job training to be successful are supported through that process.  
• Mahaska Health Partnership - Lead by Mahaska Health in Oskaloosa this program will be addressing a critical shortage of medical laboratory assistants by identifying current high school seniors who have appropriate academic achievement and a socio-economic or financial need.  The goal is to remove financial barriers for students with a desire to attend the training program and have a guaranteed position after completion. Capacity is to identify and support 3 students. This program also includes a laboratory internship and students are assigned a mentor from the Mahaska Health Laboratory. While high school students are a target population,  community members can also participate.
• The Well – The Well is a non-profit organization based in Pella and Knoxville.  Key partners include: LDJ and Vermeer who provide manufacturing contracts to The Well that enable relevant training for Well employees.  Well Works is a program that employs and supports people who have previously struggled maintaining a job which happens for many different reasons.  Through an 18-month process of employment and education individuals who face significant barriers to successful employment are supported to success defined as graduating from the program, moving to stable employment and financial independence off of taxpayer funded programs.  Well Works expands opportunities for their employees to finish education they never finished, and receive certifications and program support for areas where they have struggled to include finances, substance abuse and education. Well Works specifically supports obtaining work in high-demand fields that include advanced manufacturing production, installation, maintenance and carpentry.  This program would provide opportunity for 20 individuals.
• TMC Transportation – In partnership with Youth Shelter and Services (YSS) this program will create and implement a TMC Transportation and Logistics Training program which will address regional employment needs and provide paid training and employment for under-represented and low-income individuals living in Story County.  The program includes 6 CDL training program positions, 2 paid internships for Story County high school students and 2 paid logistics internships for Story County high school students. TMC will collaborate with YSS to recruit and support program participants.
• Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine- Fueling the Future pilot project.  Partnering with Trinity Muscatine Public Health, Muscatine Community College, City of Muscatine, Muscatine Center for Social Action, Aligned Impact Muscatine, and a collective of Muscatine employers.  This program will provide an intensive 6 week upskilling in the high-demand fields of welding and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and participants will receive welding or CNA certificates. The project will target adults in low-income families of elementary-aged children receiving weekend “backpack” food subsidies in Muscatine.  Innovative wrap-around services will be provided to families participating. The six-week certificate programs being offered through Muscatine Community College will be geared toward adult learners with a focused, intentional accelerated curriculum to reduce the potential life barriers that can get in the way of student completion. Area hiring employers will participate in paid part-time internships during the six-week sessions with commitments to hire qualified individuals upon completion.  Six months of follow up is also part of the program to help ensure long-term success. Twelve individuals will participate in the initial pilot.

The second round of Employer Innovation Fund applications will begin Sept. 4 and close on Nov. 8, 2019. 

For more information about the Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund, visit www.FutureReadyIowa.gov/innovation

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Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

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Unemployment Tax Rate Table Remains the Same for 2020

DES MOINES – Today, Iowa Workforce Development officials announced that the unemployment tax rate table will remain unchanged for 2020. Tax rates will be the second lowest allowed by law.

Iowa Law requires Iowa Workforce Development to establish the tax table, which determines the unemployment tax rate for eligible employers each year. The unemployment insurance rate table trigger formula is primarily based on the trust fund balance, unemployment benefit payment history and covered wage growth. The formula is designed to enable the trust fund to keep pace with potential liabilities as covered unemployment and wages grow. Based on this formula, the contribution rate table will remain in table 7 of 8 possible tables in 2020.

 “The unemployment insurance tax rate for Iowa's employers will remain in Table 7, the same table it has been since calendar year 2018,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “Remaining in Table 7 for the third year ensures unemployment taxes remain low for most Iowa employers.  This contributes to a favorable business environment as well as contributing to sustained economic and job growth around the state."

Iowa Workforce Development is the state agency charged with collecting unemployment insurance taxes from employers and operating Iowa’s unemployment insurance payment program for workers. Through a network of IowaWORKS centers, the agency also connects job seekers with opportunities and employers with workforce solutions.

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Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

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Iowa's Unemployment Rate Remains at 2.5 Percent

DES MOINES - Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 2.5 percent in August. The state’s jobless rate was 2.4 percent one year ago. The U.S. unemployment rate remained at 3.7 percent in August.

"In August, we saw another increase in the number of working Iowans in the labor force, up 5,800 from last month,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “Even with the increase in the number of Iowans working, employers are still in search of skilled workers to fill tens of thousands of open jobs across the state.  At the Future Ready Iowa Fall Summits, employers are sharing successful strategies with each other including working with the disabled, returning citizens, as well as how easy registered apprenticeship programs are to create and maintain and the overwhelmingly positive benefit employers get from these programs. There's still plenty of time to attend a summit and you can register at FutureReadyIowa.gov/registration."  

The number of unemployed Iowans increased to 43,800 in August from 42,800 in July. The current estimate is 3,600 higher than the year ago level of 40,200.

The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,686,200 in August. This figure was 5,800 higher than July and 39,300 higher than one year ago.

Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment

In August, Iowa’s business establishments gained a slight 300 jobs over July’s total and now rest at 1,595,200 jobs. Firms involved in goods production showed the most promise (+800), while private services were sluggish since July and trended down (-700). Government was fueled by hiring at the state level and advanced by 200 jobs.  This sector is now up 1,300 jobs annually.

Construction gained the most jobs in August (+1,000) and was bolstered by hiring in the construction of new residential and commercial buildings. This gain marks the fifth consecutive advancement for this sector following a weak start to the year. Financial activities added jobs in August (+800). This was the first monthly gain since May and helps trim some of the losses stretching back to last year. Professional and business services again added jobs (+600) with growth being concentrated within administrative support and waste management services. Losses this month were deepest in the education and health care super sector (-1,600). Virtually all the decline was due to reductions in staffing in the health care and social assistance sector. This drop would almost certainly be a temporary correction in payroll and not indicative of any long term trend for this sector. Trade, transportation, and utilities pared 400 jobs due to continued sluggishness in the retail sector.

Over the past twelve months, Iowa has trended up and is 12,600 jobs higher than last August. Despite two small declines over the past two months, manufacturing continues to be the catalyst of job growth (+6,500). Durable goods factories have provided more new jobs than non-durable goods shops. The other services sector advanced by 2,500 jobs and construction is now up 2,300 jobs annually. Those sectors paring jobs since last year are information services (-1,300), financial activities (-700), and trade, transportation, and utilities (-600).

MEDIA ALERT:  Local data for August will be posted to the IWD website on Tuesday, September 24, 2019. Statewide data for September 2019 will be released on Friday, October 18, 2019.

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Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

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Gov. Reynolds invites employers to learn about the benefits of hiring formerly incarcerated individuals

DES MOINES – Governor Reynolds encourages employers and human resources managers to attend the Employer and Reentry Breakfast Roundtable and learn about the employment opportunities available with formerly incarcerated individuals.  The event will take place at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women in Mitchellville on Nov. 6 at 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Iowa Workforce Development and the Iowa Department of Corrections are co-hosting the event.

“In Iowa, there are jobs looking for people and it’s critical that we address the skills gap holistically,” said Gov. Reynolds. “By forging a partnership between the business community, the Department of Corrections, and Iowa Workforce Development, we can help formerly incarcerated individuals find a better path.  Providing Iowa employers with a much-needed workforce while opening new doors for Iowans on the road to redemption is an obvious win-win.”

The roundtable will feature presentations and discussions about recruiting and training practices, apprenticeship programs, and incentives available to employers who hire returning citizens.

"With low unemployment, it is vital that employers open their recruitment strategy to include all Iowans.  We continually hear from employers who have done so and it has operated to their benefit, both from a production/economic position, but also from improving the unity and morale within their workforce," said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “Employers can be a part of someone else's success story and score a win for their company."  

“Iowa Corrections places an emphasis on job training in each of our correctional facilities. We have thousands of returning citizens every year that are ready to get to work with employers that are willing to give them the opportunity,” commented Iowa Corrections Director Beth Skinner. “When given the chance, many of these people will make excellent additions to the workforce around our state.” 

Employers may register for the roundtable event at Eventbrite.  A link to the online registration will also be available at doc.iowa.gov.  If you are interested in attending an event and have additional questions, please contact Richelle Seitz at richelle.seitz@iwd.iowa.gov.  For media questions about the event, please contact Cord Overton at cord.overton@iowa.gov.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

Iowa’s Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 2.5 Percent

Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 2.5 percent in September. The state’s jobless rate was 2.4 percent one year ago. The U.S. unemployment rate fell to 3.5 percent in September.

“Iowa’s labor force participation rate has steadily increased with 7,900 more Iowans in the workforce since August,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “Although unemployment remains low for our state, there are still tens of thousands of positions open. During the Future Ready Iowa Summits, many employers and community members have come forward with innovative solutions for recruiting skilled workers and retaining them in the state. We look forward to hearing more from employers during the remaining summits, in which you can still register at FutureReadyIowa.gov/registration.”

The number of unemployed Iowans increased to 44,200 in September from 43,800 in August. The current estimate is 4,200 higher than the year ago level of 40,000.

The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,694,200 in September. This figure was 7,900 higher than August and 45,200 higher than one year ago.

Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment

Total nonfarm employment in Iowa decreased slightly in September (-400), the first monthly decline since March. Although there were some signs of hiring in the private sector, seasonal gains in government education were less than expected and more than matched the private sector growth. Government shed a combined 1,200 jobs in September, but still hovers 2,100 jobs higher than last year’s mark. Private industries gained 800 jobs in September and have risen by 10,600 jobs annually.

Within private sectors, the largest monthly movement in September was in financial activities (+900). This sector has been showing signs of cutbacks throughout 2019, although there were job gains in each of the last two months. Whereas insurance carriers and related activities have expanded versus one year ago, credit intermediation has been generally flat since last September. Construction fared well in September and gained 800 jobs as projects continued later into the season. This sector has now added jobs in every month since April. Retail provided an unexpected gain to the trade, transportation, and utilities super sector which added 500 jobs.

Private sector losses were generally light in September. Leisure and hospitality had a drop of 700 jobs due to losses in accommodations and food services. Eating and drinking establishments were responsible for most of this monthly loss. Professional and business services pared 400 jobs with losses being concentrated in administrative support and waste management services. Manufacturing again posted a monthly loss (-200) as nondurable goods factories reduced staff. This is now the third-consecutive decrease for manufacturing.

Annually, Iowa establishments have gained 12,700 jobs over last year’s mark. Although manufacturing has shown some recent weakness in nondurable goods manufacturing it still leads all super sectors in annual job gains (+4,800). Construction has reemerged recently as a job creator following a dismal first quarter and now rests 3,300 jobs above last year. The only super sectors losing jobs annually are information (-1,300) and mining (-100).

MEDIA ALERT:  Local data for September will be posted to the IWD website on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. Statewide data for October 2019 will be released on Tuesday, November 19, 2019.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

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DOC and IWD invite employers in North-Central Iowa to learn about the opportunities available with hiring reentering citizens 

DES MOINES – Iowa Department of Corrections and Iowa Workforce Development will host the Employer and Reentry Breakfast Roundtable at the North Central Correctional Facility in Rockwell City, IA, on Dec. 12. Governor Reynolds, who will be kicking-off the event, encourages employers, recruiters and human resource managers to attend the Employer and Reentry Breakfast Roundtable and learn about the opportunities available with hiring returning citizens.

“With one of the strongest job markets in the country, we must innovate and seek new ways to grow our workforce. Matching employers’ needs with formerly incarcerated individuals looking for a new opportunities in life will do just that,” said Gov. Reynolds. “These conversations will build a strong connection within the community, help close the current skills gap and open new doors for Iowans on the road to redemption.”

“The Iowa Corrections team, along with our government, non-profit, and community college partners, has put a tremendous amount of work into transforming incarcerated people into the type of worker that an employer would like to have,” commented Iowa Corrections Director Beth Skinner. “Many of these returning citizens are jobsite-ready. We want to make sure that as employers are looking to fill their labor needs, they consider this population for their workforce.”  

The roundtable will feature presentations and discussions about recruiting and training practices, apprenticeship programs, and incentives available to employers who hire returning citizens.

“A common theme we hear from employers is that there are not enough people to fill their open positions. This event is an opportunity to learn how employers can benefit from hiring and training returning citizens,” said Iowa Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend. “By opening their recruitment strategy to include returning citizens, employers can find the skilled workers they need and be a part of someone’s success story.”

Employers may register for the roundtable event at Eventbrite. A link to the online registration will also be available at doc.iowa.gov. If you are interested in attending an event and have additional questions, please contact Richelle Seitz at richelle.seitz@iwd.iowa.gov. For media questions about the event, please contact Cord Overton at cord.overton@iowa.gov

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

Iowa’s Unemployment Rate Increases to 2.6 Percent, Participation Rate Rises

DES MOINES, IOWA –Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 2.6 percent in October driven by an increase in the state’s labor force. The state’s jobless rate was 2.4 percent one year ago. The labor force participation rate rose to 70.4 percent in October from 70.1 percent in September. The U.S. unemployment rate rose to 3.6 percent in October.

“While Iowa saw a small increase in the number of unemployed in October, we also saw an increase of 9,100 more Iowans in the workforce than we saw in September,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. "Over the past 12 months we have seen more than 52,000 Iowans join the workforce. Employers continue to face a shortage of skilled workers and there are currently over 60,000 job postings on www.IowaWorks.gov. Future Ready Iowa and our partners, the community colleges, are well positioned to help address this shortage through their effort to award thousands of Last-Dollar scholarships in high-demand occupations."

The number of unemployed Iowans increased to 45,100 in October from 44,200 in September. The current estimate is 5,100 higher than the year ago level of 40,000.

The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,703,400 in October. This figure was 9,100 higher than September and 52,600 higher than one year ago.

Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment

Hiring in Iowa slowed in October with payrolls remaining virtually unchanged versus September. A slight loss within private establishments (-400) was exactly offset by small gains in local and state government. Overall, half of all private super sectors posted the same job level in October that they had in September. The lack of movement this month halts six consecutive months of job gains for the state stretching back to April and leaves total nonfarm employment in Iowa up 7,800 jobs over-the-year (+0.5 percent).

Within private services, job growth this month was centered around professional and business services (+500), or more specifically, the professional, scientific, and technical services sector. This is the second straight month this sector has advanced, adding over 900 jobs since August. Job losses this month were generally small and led by financial activities (-400). Much of this loss was within credit intermediation and related activities. Insurance carriers and related activities has fared slightly better and helped mitigate some of this decrease. All other losses were small and included construction, other services, and education and health services, all of which combined for a loss of 500 jobs.

Over the past twelve months, manufacturing continues to lead all super sectors in terms of job growth (+2,800). This is contrary to the fact that Iowa’s factories have not combined for a monthly job gain since the recent high established in June, when this sector topped at 229,900 jobs. Durable goods continue to comprise most of the gain (+2,800) with nondurable goods shops now paring jobs in each of the last four months. Construction had a small decline in October but remains up 1,600 jobs with growth being particularly strong in the Des Moines Metro area. Annual losses continue to be highest in information services (-1,500). This sector continues to structurally change away from print and wired media and become less labor intensive as new technologies advance. Leisure and hospitality now trails last year’s mark by 1,000 jobs due to accommodations and food services staff reductions over the past three months.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

Gov. Reynolds announces second round of Employer Innovation Fund awardees, encourages employers to apply in third round

DES MOINES - Today, Governor Reynolds announced 22 recipients of the Employer Innovation Fund, a matching grant that helps employers provide postsecondary training and education opportunities for their employees. The second round of Employer Innovation Fund Grants will distribute $568,000 to employers and employer consortiums across the state. A third round application period with $244,200 in remaining funds will open Dec. 3 and close Dec. 17. 

“Future Ready Iowa provides Iowans with life-changing opportunities while simultaneously helping employers grow their local workforce talent pipeline,” said Gov. Reynolds. "The program’s Employer Innovation Fund fuels grassroots innovation, empowering Iowa businesses and communities to create solutions that help Iowans find a good-paying job in a high-demand career. We are excited about this program’s initial success and see even greater opportunities in the future.”  

The purpose of the grant is to create more opportunities for working Iowans to earn non-credit and for-credit postsecondary credentials leading to high-demand jobs in the state. Employers, community leaders and others can apply by submitting a proposal for implementing a creative solution to their local workforce needs.

“Employers' efforts to develop their own workforce through upskilling, training and education programs, are key to help Iowa meet the 2025 goal of 70 percent of Iowans having postsecondary credentials,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “The Employer Innovation Fund is unique to Iowa and will help employers leverage their existing resources with a state match to upskill even more of their workforce.  It also helps community organizations work with local employers to provide training dollars that also help develop a skilled workforce. We want to award all of the $1.2 million the legislature appropriated to the fund this year so we strongly encourage employers to apply for the third round of grants."    

Employer Innovation Fund Recipients Include:

• Geater Machining & Manufacturing- Independence: Funding will support the purchase of a 3D printing package for Jesup Community School District; provide additional training and certification for 2 teachers and 3D printing certifications from MakerBot for 30 high school students.  Award total: $2,702
• Iowa Chronic Care Consortium (ICCC) – Des Moines: ICCC will provide scholarships and training materials for 7 students to participate in the first-in-Iowa Community Health Worker Professional Skills Training Program. Award total:  $8,575
• Interstates Construction Services, Incorporated –Sioux Center: Interstates will convert existing electrical apprenticeship training materials to Spanish as well as offer “English as a Second Language” classes. Currently, the apprenticeship program and journeyman’s electrical license exam are available only in English.  This will provide a pathway to Interstates Registered Apprenticeship program for employees for whom English is not their first language. Award total: $32,500
• Society of Saint Vincent de Paul/Bridges of Iowa – Des Moines: Funding will support the creation and implementation of a 4-step curriculum that will prepare and align under-leveraged, talented work candidates with support services, skill development and internships with multiple employers working in the trades.  The goal is to create a career pathway that will lead to successful participation in Pre-Apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship programs. Award total: $15,000
• Carl A. Nelson & Company, Brockway Mechanical & Roofing Co, Burlington Community School District and Southeastern Community College – West Burlington: This partnership will create a construction Quality Pre-Apprenticeship program for high school students.  Students will earn college credit, a Building Construction Certificate and an OSHA 10 General Construction credential.  Award total: $18,250
• Redstone Content Solutions LLC –  Davenport: Funding will support opportunities for 2 interns to work in software development resulting in valuable IT experience and Java certification.  Award total: $21,000
• Family Resources – Davenport: Family Resources will implement a Family Resources Behavior Disorder Counselor Internship program for 18 interns over 2 years to obtain experience and education needed in the difficult to recruit field of human services.  College credit will be earned by participants. Award total: $20,681
• United Way of Muscatine – Muscatine: This program is a partnership of numerous local employers, educators, and community organizations.  The ultimate goal is to reduce barriers faced by low-income families and enable parents to achieve non-credit postsecondary credentials in high-demand occupations.  The curriculum is geared specifically for adult learners and is an accelerated track to reduce the potential life barriers that can get in the way of completion. The training is available for welding, CNC, and CAN credentials.  Award total: $26,715
• Mahaska County Hospital/Mahaska Health Partnership – Oskaloosa: This programming creates internships in high-demand areas of the hospital and supports tuition assistance to employees to obtain much-needed credentials in sonography, respiratory therapy, and paramedic training.  Award total: $35,000
• Clarke County Hospital – Osceola: This funding will double the amount of money the hospital has to invest in education and certification of current employees who can fill high-demand positions.  Award total $25,000
• JB Holland Construction, Inc. – Decorah: Funds will support the purchase of a simulator, which provides training for beginner, intermediate, and advanced heavy equipment operators.  The training will lead to non-credit certifications that can also transfer to a credit program should employees chose to pursue that path. JB Holland will train new employees with this model and upskill current employees in an accelerated manner.  Award total: $50,000
• Boone Community School District – Boone: With support from Musco Lighting, the District will expand their existing EDGE career prep program into the aviation field.  This project will allow 5 students to explore a variety of aviation careers while preparing them for taking the certification test for a private pilot license.  This model combines distance learning with on-site learning with the potential to scale if successful. Award total: $2,500
• Heartland AEA – Johnston: In partnership with the Iowa Hospital Association, Iowa Society of CPAs, Iowa Communication Alliance, Wolfe Eye Clinic and Master Builders of Iowa, Heartland AEA will develop an industry sponsored career investigative learning module for each of these high-demand occupations.  These modules connect students directly to industries they are interested in as well as provide access to mentors in the industry. Award total: $12,500
• Associated Computer Systems LLC (ACS) – Des Moines: ACS will hire interns for 2-month time frames, recruiting from Des Moines area high schools and community colleges.  Interns will gain experience in the high-demand IT fields of help desk, cybersecurity and data security. Award total: $20,160
• Vera French – Davenport: Funding will help lower the financial barriers working adults face in pursuing education in the community mental health field. This funding will support current employees at Vera French Community Mental Health Center as they upskill and pursue careers in this high-demand area.  Award total: $20,000
• Iowa Restaurant Association – West Des Moines: This funding will expand opportunities for Iowa students to obtain ProStart certification.  This is a nationally recognized certificate and first step into the many professional opportunities in the hospitality industry.  This funding will remove barriers such as the cost of the exam and tracking of on-the-job training required for certification. Award total:  $50,000
• Broadlawns Medical Center – Des Moines: Funding will provide stipends to 40 participants and help them complete their training to earn a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, a high-demand career field. Award: $50,000
• Central College – Pella: Central College will create and implement programming that supports traditional students seeking alternative career pathways to high-demand jobs. This program is designed to support the challenges young Iowans face transitioning into full-time employment and offers additional credit earning opportunities at the same time.  Award total: $27,500
• Indian Hills Community College – Centerville: This project will become the the Rathbun Area Industrial Maintenance Project. The partnership of Appanoose, Davis, Monroe and Wayne counties with numerous area employers will upskill current employees and provide a path for juniors and seniors in high school to earn an Industrial Maintenance Diploma.  This provides much needed training closer to the employers to accelerate upskilling opportunities. Award total: $50,000
• Midwest Diesel Tech Academy/Peterbilt of Sioux City – Sioux City: Funding will support the development of a new training academy to meet the demands of Iowa’s transportation industry. The demand for diesel mechanics has been steadily increasing over the last 10 years.  This is a 9-month training program that incorporates on-the-job training through internships. Award total: $50,000
• Gregory Design & Manufacturing – Fort Madison: In partnership with the Burlington Regional Correctional Facility, Gregory Design & Manufacturing will implement a 5-month welding training program tailored to provide specific support and education to address the many challenges faced by this population as they transition out of corrections.  Award total: $13,724
• Scott County Family YMCA/John Deere Foundation – Davenport: The program provides at-risk teens and young adults with critical services that help address the multiple barriers they face getting on a sustainable path of education and employment. The program provides mentoring, job training, and resume building coaching among other employability skills.  The program serves the homeless, teenage parents, juveniles with a criminal record and others facing multiple barriers. Award $16,667
• Second round total:  $568,475
• First round total:  $387,425
• Total Employer Innovation Fund grants awarded to date:  $955,900 
• Remaining amount to be awarded in third round:  $244,100   

The third round of Employer Innovation Fund applications will begin Dec. 3 and close on Dec. 17, 2019. Applications must be submitted through IowaGrants.gov.

For more information about the Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund, visit www.FutureReadyIowa.gov/innovation

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Iowa’s Unemployment Rate Remains at 2.6 Percent

DES MOINES, IOWA – Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained 2.6 percent in November. The state’s jobless rate was 2.4 percent one year ago. The U.S. unemployment rate fell to 3.5 percent in November.

“Despite a slight increase in the number of individuals unemployed, the total number of Iowans working continued to increase in November. Likewise, Iowa’s labor force participation rate increased as the state added 8,200 more workers than in October. In the past 12 months, Iowa has added 60,400 more Iowans into the workforce,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “The interest and need in growing our skilled workforce remains at an all-time high as our unemployment rate remains low and we continuously have more openings than people to fill them. The statewide collaboration, support and participation in Future Ready Iowa is what is going to help Iowa close our skills gap and ensure continued economic growth."  

The number of unemployed Iowans increased to 46,200 in November from 45,100 in October. The current estimate is 5,900 higher than the year ago level of 40,300.

The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,711,700 in November. This figure was 8,200 higher than October and 60,400 higher than one year ago.

Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment 

Iowa establishments took a step back in November, shedding 1,500 jobs. This month’s decline is the first since March, although job gains have been getting smaller as the year concludes. The state has averaged 500 jobs added over the past three months before this month’s drop. Goods-producing shed 1,400 jobs over the past two months while service industries shed jobs for the first time since March. Government lost 500 jobs in November yet remains up annually with 2,400 jobs added since this point last year.

Within private sectors, 1,000 jobs were shed from Iowa payrolls in November. Financial services were the most affected (-1,500). This month’s decline is the second consecutive loss for this sector. Professional and business services also shed jobs this month (-800). Much of the monthly decline was rooted in administrative support and waste management services which has now trended down in three consecutive months. Smaller losses this month included construction (-600), trade and transportation (-200), and mining (-100).

Other services posted the largest monthly gain in November (+1,000). This sector has fared well recently thanks to increasing demand for personal services and repairs. The monthly gain is larger than expected and erases losses over the past three months. Health care and social assistance expanded payrolls for the third straight month and increased by 600 in November. Accommodations and food services got a boost from eating and drinking establishments and added 400 jobs. This is the second month in a row that accommodations and food services have added staff. Manufacturing showed a slight increase (+100), which was welcomed news following losses in each of the last four months.

Annually, Iowa has added 5,000 jobs compared to last year’s mark. Job gains have been highest in other services (+2,400) and related to personal services and repair. Health care and social assistance has fueled growth in the education and health services sector (+1,400), and construction remains up despite losses over the past few months (+1,100). Manufacturing now hovers just 800 jobs above last year’s mark as Iowa’s factories have started to show some apprehension about future demand for goods. Financial activities lead all sectors in job losses (-1,700) after two months of disappointing jobs reports for the sector.

Visit www.iowalmi.gov for more information about current and historical data, labor force data, nonfarm employment, hours and earnings, and jobless benefits by county.

MEDIA ALERT:  Statewide data for December 2019 will be released on Friday, January 24, 2020. Local data for December will be posted to the IWD website on Tuesday, January 28, 2020.

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IWD, local leaders announce Carroll IowaWORKS office will relocate to Denison in 2020

Iowa Workforce Development is excited to announce that in June 2020, the IowaWORKS office in Carroll will relocate to a new facility in Denison.  Iowa Workforce Development has been working with local leaders to relocate the IowaWORKS center in order to expand office space and provide services to more customers.  Iowa Workforce Development will continue to provide services in Carroll through an expansion office.  Details will be announced later this summer.  The new office will continue to serve both Carroll and Denison communities. 

“Over the past few years we have seen a steady increase in customer traffic in the Denison area and the timing is right now for the IowaWORKS office to relocate to Denison,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “We have been meeting with local leaders, including legislators and local workforce board members, to find the best solution for helping Crawford County residents meet their employment goals.  The Denison community and community school district have been huge supporters of Future Ready Iowa and relocating the office to Denison will allow IowaWORKS team members to support those efforts on a larger scale.”

The decision to relocate the IowaWORKS office to Denison came after local leaders and Iowa Workforce Development officials evaluated the demand and need for IowaWORKS resources in both communities. Once the new location opens in Denison, an expansion office will continue to serve Carroll residents.  

“Denison is a growing community and our residents are excited to utilize the IowaWORKS services and prepare for the workplace of the future. We look forward to partnering with Iowa Workforce Development on finding the best office location to meet the needs of the entire region,” said Evan Blakely, Executive Director, Chamber & Development Council of Crawford County.

In addition to providing services to job seekers, IowaWORKS centers also connect local employers with workforce solutions.

“As one of Crawford County’s largest employers, WESCO Industries welcomes IowaWORKS back to Denison,” said Clay Adams, Executive Director, WESCO Industries, Inc. “We have frequently relied on IowaWORKS for our staffing needs and we very much look forward to continuing our relationship with the IowaWORKS team in the future.”  

“On behalf of the Denison Job Corps Center and the students we serve, we are pleased to hear that the IowaWORKS office will be relocating to Denison,” said Douglas Dorhout, Center Director, Denison Job Corps Center. “In hearing this news, it is reassuring that the Denison Job Corps will continue our partnership with IowaWORKS and connect employers and students to multiple support services.”

Updates about the IowaWORKS office relocation will be released as they become available. Job seekers, employers, and community groups are encouraged to contact their nearest IowaWORKS center, or visit IowaWORKS.gov to learn more about the employment services available to them.

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Gov. Reynolds congratulates third round of Employer Innovation Fund awardees, wraps up first year of awards

DES MOINES – Today, Governor Reynolds announced 14 recipients of the Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund, a matching grant that helps employers provide postsecondary training and education opportunities for their employees. The third round of grants will distribute $244,100 to the recipients. The three rounds of Employer Innovation Fund grants have allocated $1.2 million in funds to 49 awardees across the state.

“Through the Employer Innovation Fund, Future Ready Iowa is working to spur innovation among employers and communities,” said Gov. Reynolds. “We have thousands of open jobs and rewarding careers and that is why we launched Future Ready Iowa. The Employer Innovation Fund is just one way we can help remove the barriers to postsecondary training and education and help Iowans achieve their goals.”

Funding for the grant was passed by the Iowa Legislature in 2019, making this the first year for the Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund.

"The Employer Innovation Fund has quickly become an important tool for employers investing in growing their skilled workforce and nonprofits and community groups looking to help those with the most barriers complete skills training,"  Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “The Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship takes care of tuition and fees but that is not often the barrier for individuals to receive training. The programs proposed through the Employer Innovation Fund address those barriers in creative and innovative ways and not only will help Iowa meet the Future Ready Iowa goal, but also provide hope and inspiration to those who may have been left behind in our economic success."  

Employer Innovation Fund Round 3 Awardees:

Hope Haven Area Development Center – Burlington: In partnership with the West Burlington School District, students from the Corner Academy will gain employment experience at Hope Haven, a nonprofit that provides vocational, residential, community employment and living services for the disabled. Students will be trained as job coaches with the opportunity for future employment after high school graduation. The funding will support training and equipment for three students. Awarded $2,360

Optimae LifeServices Inc. – Cedar Rapids: Optimae’s Front Line Supervisor project will offer training for supervisors to become certified through the National Association of Direct Care Support Professionals. The program will train and certify 50 employees currently in supervisory positions. This certificate is nationally recognized and will assist Optimae supervisors in recruiting, training and retaining individuals in direct care occupations, as well as provide improved client services for the individuals with disabilities Optimae serves. Awarded $40,000

Good Neighbor Society – Manchester: Funding will support course the costs of training and certification for 9 employees from Delaware and surrounding counties to earn their CNA. It will also be used to purchase a new training manikin for continued employee skill development. Awarded $10,000

Sukup Manufacturing Co. – Sheffield: The funds will help implement a Quality Pre- Apprenticeship Program between Sukup and West Fork Community School District. It will support the skilled labor academy that provides opportunities for students to attend the welding program at North Iowa Area Community College and earn a nationally recognized credential. The project will purchase welder set up kits, new textbooks and provide 5 sets of the required tools for students in the program. Awarded $5,250

Goodwill of the Heartland – Iowa City: This project will provide occupational skills training and certification for 25 individuals with significant barriers to employment. The project will serve individuals from Burlington, Mount Pleasant, Muscatine, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Clinton and Davenport. Nationally recognized certifications such as the Custodial Technician Certification and multiple national credentials through the National Restaurant Association and the National Retail Federation will be earned. Paid work experience and employment opportunities are also part of the project. Awarded $23,549

Goodwill of Central Iowa – Johnston: This award will support the Creating Excellence in Re-Entry (CEiR) program. This collaborative partnership provides a holistic set of support services as well as occupational skills training in high-demand fields of food services and warehouse/packaging/logistics for returning citizens in community-based corrections. Opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials in these high-demand field is an essential part of the program. The program will serve 48 participants. Awarded $45,000

Mid-Iowa Council, Boy Scouts of America – Des Moines: This funding will support the creation and implementation of the Scouts ITech Exploring Pathways Program focused solely on advanced manufacturing. The ITech Exploring pathway program will be available to youth ages 12 through 20 and will be the first of its kind in the nation. The program will create interest and build skills through gamification of STEM skills by creating connections to local employers and work opportunities. The goal will be to enroll 200 Iowa teens into the advanced manufacturing ITech Exploring program. Awarded $25,000

Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance – Mount Pleasant: To meet identified employer needs in the area, this project will fund the purchase a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine to be placed in the Mt. Pleasant High School as well as cover the cost of training instructors. The school district and the local business community have partnered together to teach students and parents about the advanced technology involved in manufacturing jobs within their community. Twelve local manufacturers will serve as project advisors and teach 176 students how to use the CNC machine in the first semester. Awarded $10,000

One City United – Waterloo: One City United will undertake a Momentum pilot project in Waterloo. This is a neighborhood-based program connecting unemployed and underemployed individuals with training, coaching and networking in construction. Eligible participants will earn construction credentials. The project is developed for 14 at-risk youth, ages 18-24. The grant will be used for participant support costs such as transportation, child care and emergency funds. Awarded $1,500

Iowa iJAG Inc. - Des Moines: This funding will support the efforts of Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG) to increase the number of employers trained in the successful iJAG employer engagement model of work-based learning experiences for iJAG students. iJAG will engage with new employer partners across Iowa to provide training and guidance in work-based learning through internships, pre-apprenticeships, certifications and paid on-the-job training. Awarded $10,863

Iowa Specialty Hospital – Clarion: This project will encourage nurses to continue their skills and credential development. The fund will cover cost of class, books and certification testing in order to remove barriers for participants. The next step will be providing employee scholarships for individuals to obtain the next level of training, LPN, RN and/or specialized certifications. The program goals are to support 10 employees in obtaining CNA certification, 10 employees in obtaining LPN, RN or DNP degrees and 20 employees to earn specialty certificates. Awarded $10,000

Willis Dady Emergency Shelter – Cedar Rapids: This project will provide support services to 6 individuals who are experiencing homelessness or near homelessness in order for them to obtain CNA certification and stable employment. The grant will provide wrap-around services designed to address the numerous barriers and challenges faced by individuals in this situation while providing them with a way to develop a sustainable career pathway. Awarded $10,643

Matthew 25 – Cedar Rapids: Fifteen high school age youth will participate in a program that focuses on teaching the critical skills of communication, teamwork, and problem solving while having a paying job that will teach small business management and customer service skills.Awarded $9,935

Iowa Skilled Trades – Johnston: To address critical shortages in the skilled trades, this project will build two new labs at Central Campus in Des Moines as part of a much larger project. The funding for this request will purchase equipment needed for a new HVAC lab. This project will provide opportunities for an additional 100 students to enter the trades program at the school. Awarded $40,000

Employer Innovation Fund Awards

Round 1 =  $387,425

Round 2 =  $568,475

Round 3 =  $244,100

Total       = $1,200,000

For more information about the Employer Innovation Fund, visit www.FutureReadyIowa.gov/innovation

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IowaWORKS expands services at new satellite location in Des Moines

DES MOINES – Iowa Workforce Development and community partners invite the public to celebrate the opening of the new IowaWORKS satellite office at Park Fair Mall on Jan. 28. The open house will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the atrium at 9:00 a.m., followed by tours at the new center.

"Our goal is to make our services as accessible as possible for job seekers and employers. Opening this satellite office expands IowaWORKS services within the Des Moines metro area.  As much as possible, we need to meet people where they are and the satellite office will expand our ability to do that,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “Building a future ready workforce starts at the local level and this new location will create more opportunities to connect job seekers and employers with the employment resources they need where they need them."  

The new office provides career planning services, unemployment assistance, and resources for partner programs.

“There has been a lot of interest from employers and job seekers in the area since we opened last month. This location is geographically convenient, which helps us reach more customers,” said Sara Bath, Des Moines IowaWORKS Operations Manager. "We look forward to building upon our services at Park Fair Mall and providing our customers with the resources they need.”

“The new IowaWORKS office is a wonderful job-seeking resource at an easy-to-access location,” said Shelaine Harbart, Veterans Affairs Community Employment Coordinator. “I have already recommended this office to the veterans I work with. Whether it’s getting resume help or applying for jobs, customers can find some friendly, one-on-one coaching with a readily-available workforce career planner.” 

Hours of operation for the satellite office are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information about IowaWORKS offices statewide, visit www.IowaWORKS.gov

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Iowa’s Unemployment Rate Increases Slightly to 2.7 Percent

Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased slightly to 2.7 percent in December. The state’s jobless rate was 2.4 percent one year ago. The U.S. unemployment rate remained at 3.5 percent in December.

“Given the holidays and weather in December, it was not surprising to see a slight increase in the unemployment rate.  Still, Iowa’s workforce grew by 4,400 jobs in December and has grown by 64,900 since the previous December,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “We continue to have more jobs than people to fill them and programs like Future Ready Iowa will help Iowans get the training they need for high-demand occupations and employers to find the talent pipeline they continue to need."

The number of unemployed Iowans increased to 47,200 in December from 46,200 in November. The current estimate is 6,800 higher than the year ago level of 40,400.

The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,716,100 in December. This figure was 4,400 higher than November and 64,900 higher than one year ago.

Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment

Iowa’s total nonfarm employment trended down in December and shed 3,100 jobs. This is the second consecutive month that firms trimmed payrolls following a loss of 2,300 jobs in November. Goods producing sectors were lifted by unusual hiring in the construction sector, but private services declined again this month. Government lost 900 jobs in December but remains up 2,000 jobs versus one year ago.

Manufacturing posted the largest loss in December (-1,400) and has now pared jobs in six consecutive months following a recent high in June. Durable goods factories have been most affected with 1,900 jobs shed over the past three months. Professional and business services were down in December (-1,200) due primarily to cutbacks in professional, scientific, and technical services. This decline follows a drop of 900 jobs last month. Truck transportation looked especially weak in December and transportation, warehousing, and utilities combined shed 1,400 jobs. On the other hand, construction posted an unusual increase in activity to end the year (+1,500). Most of these gains were in specialty trade contractors. Despite losses in October and November construction has generally been positive through much of the year. Leisure and hospitality also fared well to end the year (+1,200). Growth was split between entertainment and accommodations and food services.

Over the past twelve months, total nonfarm employment has edged down (-2,400). Trade, transportation, and utilities leads all sectors with 3,300 jobs shed. These losses are nearly even between retail trade and transportation and warehousing. Professional and business services have also been trending down recently (-2,900) with administrative support and waste management positions being most affected. Both financial services and manufacturing have shed 1,600 jobs annually. Alternatively, those sectors that have advanced compared to last December are construction (+4,500), other services (+1,500), and leisure and hospitality (+300).

MEDIA ALERT:  Local data for December will be posted to the IWD website on Tuesday, January 28, 2020. Statewide and local data for January 2020 will be released on Monday, March 16, 2020.

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Wells Fargo workers may be eligible for benefits under Trade Adjustment Assistance program

IOWA – Workers of Wells Fargo, including workers whose wages were reported through Aerotek, Apple One, Randstad, Robert Half International, Talent Bridge Network, Disys, Palmer Group, KForce, Cognizant, Deloitte, Cap Gemeni and Infosys Inc., who were engaged in activities related to underwriting and home preservation, claim submissions, mortgage modifications, compliance and support, banking lines of business, technology testing controls, meeting and event contract and support and architecture solutions may be eligible for benefits under the federal Trade Adjustment Assistance Reauthorization Act of 2015 (TAARA 2015). A petition filed on behalf of workers of Wells Fargo, including workers whose wages were reported through the above named companies, was certified by the U.S. Department of Labor on January 2, 2020.

The petition covers periods of unemployment occurring on or after January 2, 2018 through January 2, 2022. Under the TAARA 2015 Act, displaced workers may be eligible for benefits such as training, job search and relocation assistance, and Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC). For additional information on the HCTC, they can visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/HCTC.

If workers have exhausted their cash benefits under other state and federal unemployment compensation programs, they could be eligible for additional weekly benefits equivalent to the amount they were receiving under other programs. To receive Trade Readjustment Allowance (TRA) benefits, workers must enroll in training within 26 weeks of the certification date or their last qualifying separation or a waiver of the training requirement must be granted by the Unemployment Insurance Bureau at Iowa Workforce Development.

Wells Fargo was also certified for Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance (RTAA). Employees who are 50 years of age and older, who obtain full time employment after their separation from the affected employer, may be eligible for training and allowances under the RTAA program.

All potentially eligible workers will be notified within 2-3 weeks and worker informational meetings will be scheduled to explain the benefits and rights of the affected workers.

Workers who may be eligible for the benefits under TAARA 2015 may contact their local IowaWORKS office at www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/contact, or learn more about the Trade Adjustment Assistance program at www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/trade-act-assistance

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Gov. Reynolds invites employers to learn about the opportunities available with hiring returning citizens

DES MOINES - Governor Kim Reynolds encourages employers, recruiters, and human resource managers to attend the Employer and Reentry Roundtable on Jan. 29 at the Anamosa State Penitentiary. Iowa Department of Corrections and Iowa Workforce Development will co-host the roundtable to highlight opportunities available with hiring returning citizens. The event starts at 12:30 pm.  

“Our prisons shouldn’t be one stop in a circle that leads back to prison. They should connect people with opportunities to improve themselves and their skills,” said Gov. Reynolds. “We will continue host employer roundtables at our correctional facilities to encourage employers to hire reentering individuals. By doing so, employers can learn about an opportunity to meet their workforce needs and give an Iowan a second chance at a productive and rewarding life.” 

The roundtable is part of a series that kicked off in November of 2019. Each event features presentations and discussions about recruiting and training practices, apprenticeship programs and incentives available to employers who hire returning citizens.

“The Iowa Corrections Team is working every day to transform those currently incarcerated into the workforce of tomorrow. With over 90% of these people returning to their communities someday, we have a duty to make sure they are ready to go to work upon reentry. This event is an opportunity to highlight this work to Iowa’s employers, and we are excited to bring the business community into our institution,” said Iowa Dept. of Corrections Director Beth Skinner. 

“When employers open their recruitment strategy to include returning citizens, they increase the size of their skilled worker pool given all of the training currently available in our corrections facilities," said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “The roundtable is focused on informing employers about peers who have successfully hired from this pool of returning citizens as well as programs and incentives available to employers who do so."  

Employers may register for the roundtable event at Eventbrite. A link to the online registration will also be available at doc.iowa.gov. If you are interested in attending an event and have additional questions, please contact Richelle Seitz at richelle.seitz@iwd.iowa.gov. For media questions about the event, please contact Cord Overton at cord.overton@iowa.gov

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Future Ready Iowa Summer Youth Intern Program now accepting applications

DES MOINES – Employers, non-profit groups, and educational institutions are encouraged to apply for the Future Ready Iowa Summer Youth Intern Program grant, a funding opportunity to place youth at risk of not graduating high school in internships primarily in high-demand career fields. The State of Iowa has appropriated $250,000 of funds to support the Summer Youth Intern program. The application period opens February 11 and closes March 11. 

“Future Ready Iowa is life-changing and it will infuse Iowa’s workforce with thousands of skilled employees and is designed to help those looking for a way up,” said Gov. Reynolds. “Future Ready Iowa’s Summer Youth Intern Program provides opportunities for our students through engaging work-based learning during the summer months. I encourage students to apply because it’s never too early, or too late, to find something you're passionate about.” 

Last year, over 110 youth were served by three programs.  The programs are designed to last at least six weeks and include developing soft skills and working with or for local employers in high-demand occupations.   

“Our goal is to help communities create programs with local employers that serve local students.  The students learn about high-demand jobs in their hometown and the soft skills necessary to get and keep a job,” said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. “Future Ready Iowa supports the idea that communities can better identify and develop their own workforce needs with the right tools that help create a talent pipeline.  The Summer Youth Intern Program does this by giving students hands-on experience with local employers."

Funds may be used for services and resources to support costs of program participants, including for example: internship wages, training resources, transportation of the participants, clothing, program staff time and indirect costs. Applications can be submitted for the “Future Ready Iowa Summer Youth Internship Program” through the “Grant Opportunities” link at www.IowaGrants.gov.

The Summer Youth Intern Program was created under the Future Ready Iowa Act as a way to develop Iowa’s skilled workforce. The initiative aims to ensure 70 percent of Iowans in the workforce ages 25-64 have education and training beyond high school by the year 2025.

For more information about Future Ready Iowa, visit www.FutureReadyIowa.gov.

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of June 14 - June 20, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, June 14, and Saturday, June 20, was 8,542. There were 7,835 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 707 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.? The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims for June 14-20 was 153,771. The U.S. Department of Labor provided updates to last week's number of initial and continuing claims made between June 7-13, which amounts to 9,069 initial claims and 152,739 continuing claims. Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.?

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $38,079,525.38 for the week of June 14- 20. The following industries had the most claims:?

• Manufacturing (1,961)
• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc. (1,372)
• Health Care & Social Assistance (727)
• Accommodation & Food Services (532)
• Retail Trade (528)

A total of $94,948,200.00 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of June 14-20, 2020. Since April 4, 2020, a total of $1,055,653,200 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $6,276,265.27 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of June 14-20, 2020.

A total of $3,572,874.83 in benefits has been paid in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits for the week of June 14-20, 2020. Since May 27, 2020, a total of $18,242,482.97 in PEUC benefits have been paid.?

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2006.16.20.pdf

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2006.23.20.pdf

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit ?https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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Iowa''s unemployment rate declines to 6.0 percent in August

Unemployment rate trends since April

DES MOINES - Iowa's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined to 6.0 percent in August. The state's jobless rate was 2.8 percent one year ago. The U.S. unemployment rate fell to 8.4 percent in August.

"Thankfully, Iowa's unemployment rate has continued to decline since our peak month in April, 2020, when we saw initial claims of 157,324. The sustained decline shows the resilience of Iowa's economy as we navigate the impact of the pandemic," said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. "There are over 60,000 jobs posted at https://www.iowaworks.gov and employers are desperately trying to find a skilled workforce. We encourage job seekers to make an appointment at one of our IowaWORKS offices or use our new mobile application to connect with employers."

The number of unemployed Iowans declined last month. In August, there were 96,500-down from 110,300 in July. The current estimate is 91,500 lower than the Covid-19 peak in April of 188,000. The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,520,200 in August. This figure was 4,000 higher than July's 1,516,200 and 4,400 lower than April 2020. Iowa's unemployment rate rose to 11.0 percent in April and is now at 6.0 percent. The July rate was slightly higher at 6.8 percent.

The August civilian labor force stands at 1,616,800-9,700 lower than the month of July and 95,800 below April's level of 1,712,600.
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Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment

In August, Iowa establishments gained 5,300 jobs. This monthly increase lifts the state to 1,493,000 jobs. Although this is the fourth-consecutive monthly improvement since April, this increase is substantially lower than the average number of jobs added over the previous three months (+30,700 jobs) and the result of slowed hiring in private service industries. This could be a symptom of colder weather setting in and businesses believing that demand will not return to pre-coronavirus levels as quickly as hoped. Combined, private sectors advanced just 3,600 jobs versus July. Government increased by 1,700 jobs with most of the increase fueled by temporary census workers.

Manufacturing gained 1,600 jobs in August with hiring in both durable and nondurable goods sectors. This is the fourth consecutive increase for Iowa's factories, although nondurable goods shops are currently faring better than their durable goods counterparts. Nondurable goods factories are up 500 jobs compared to March; durable goods shops have simply found some stability with little movement since April. Leisure and hospitality also added jobs this month (+1,500) and were again propelled by eating and drinking establishments. This monthly increase is far fewer than the prior three-month average and may be a sign that bars and restaurants don't expect to see much in the way of increased traffic within the next few months. Other services added 1,000 jobs in August and financial activities increased by 300 jobs. The increase in financial activities was the second in a row following a bleak second quarter which saw 3,600 jobs pared. Conversely, retail trade trimmed some staff from payrolls and led to a drop of 400 in trade and transportation. Health care and social assistance shed 900 jobs following gains in the prior three months. Professional and business services trended down slightly (-200) as a decline in professional and business services overmatched a sizable gain in administrative support and waste management services.

Since April, Iowa businesses have added 97,500 jobs. Among private sectors, accommodations and food services have added the most jobs (+36,200). This gain was understandable as bars and restaurants reopened and prepared for in-person dining. Retail trade has advanced by 14,900 jobs as non-essential businesses were allowed to reopen. Non-durable goods factories have fared well since April (+6,200) with hiring in food manufacturing fueling the gains. Government has risen by 12,300 jobs with state government education fueling most of the growth.
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Unemployment Insurance Claims

The total number of initial claims trended down in August by 13,500 (-36.7 percent) versus July and have now fallen 133,900 (-85.1 percent) versus the peak of 157,300 four months ago. For continued claims, most statistics have been reduced to approximately half of the April levels. The number of claimants dropped by 36.2 percent from last month and are down 88,100 over the prior four months. The weeks paid dropped to 312,400 in August, less than half of the 655,300 paid in April, while the total amount paid to claimants fell to $94.5 million, less than half of the $214.0 million paid four months ago.

MEDIA ALERT: ?Local data for August 2020 will be posted to the IWD website on Tuesday, September 22, 2020. ?Statewide data for September 2020 will be released on Tuesday, October 20, 2020.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of August 9? - August 15, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, Aug. 9, and Saturday, Aug. 15, was 6,544. There were 5,828 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 716 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.? The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims for Aug. 9-15 was 83,610, a decrease of 8,490 from the previous week.???

The U.S. Department of Labor adjusted last week's initial claim number down to 4,891 (a decrease of 391) and continuing claims to 92,100 (a decrease of 753 for a total decrease of 1,144).? Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.?

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $23,465,906.17 for the week of Aug. 9-15. The following industries had the most claims:?

• Manufacturing (1,664)

• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc. (887)

• Health Care & Social Assistance (608)

• Construction (449)

• Accommodation & Food Services (429)

A total of $7,881,600 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of Aug. 9-15, 2020 which were retroactive payments as the program ended July 25, 2020.? Since April 4, 2020, a total of $1,580,831,143 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $4,412,626 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of Aug. 9-15, 2020.

A total of $3,912,116.39 in benefits has been paid in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits for the week of Aug. 9-15, 2020. Since May 27, 2020, a total of $47,359,562.67 in PEUC benefits have been paid.?

On Aug. 14, 2020, FEMA approved Iowa's application to participate in the "Lost Wages Assistance" program. Iowans whose unemployment is the result of the pandemic, and who are eligible for at least $100 in benefits? each week, will qualify for an additional $300 in weekly benefits retroactive to the week ending Aug. 1. FEMA and USDOL continue to issue guidance, and IWD will continue developing the implementation process required for this program. IWD will update its website as additional information becomes available.? Since the announcement of the program approval, IWD has seen an increase in initial and continuing claims as awareness of the benefits became more widely known and we anticipate this will be reflected in increased claim numbers next week.??

Individuals who have exhausted the additional 13 weeks of PEUC benefits may be eligible for State Extended Benefits (EB) announced in June.? Claimants should continue to file weekly claims so that their claims can be reviewed to determine eligibility for State EB.? These benefits may provide eligible claimants up to an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits.? Not everyone who qualified for PEUC will be eligible for State EB.? More information is available here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/state-extended-benefits

IWD had previously waived the work search requirement since the beginning of the pandemic but this requirement will be reinstituted on September 8th, 2020.? Not all claimants will be required to begin work searches, including for example, those who are receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits due to a medical condition or lack of childcare.? Those who will be required to begin work searches will be notified by IWD.? We have also posted updates on our website regarding this requirement.? There are currently over 58,000 job openings at https://www.iowaworks.gov.????

Employers are required to notify their employees about Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code Section 871-22.19. The requirement ensures that workers are aware of the benefits they may be eligible for if they become unemployed or experience a reduction in hours.?

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2008.05.20.pdf

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2008.03.20.pdf

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of May 24 - May 30, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, May 24, and Saturday, May 30, was 6,920. There were 6,271 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 649 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state. ? This is a decline of nearly 50% from the previous week''s total initial claims. The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims for May 24-30 was 165,195, down 13,000 from the previous week. The U.S. Department of Labor provided updates to last week's number of initial and continuing claims made between May 17-23, which amounts to 13,653 initial claims and 178,619 continuing claims. Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.?

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $51,043,465.89 for the same week. The following industries had the most claims:?

• Manufacturing (1,897)
• Health Care & Social Assistance (784)
• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc. (553)
• Retail Trade (511)
• Accommodation & Food Services (462)

A total of $105,700,800 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of May 24-30, 2020. Since April 4, 2020, a total of $766,791,000 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $4,606,876 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of May 17-23, 2020.

IWD began processing Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits on May 27, 2020 and so far a total of $7,546,816.98 in PEUC benefits have been paid.?

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here:? ?https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2005.05.20-2.pdf.??

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2005.30.20_0.pdf?

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit ?https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of June 28 - July 4, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, June 28, and Saturday, July 4, was 10,698. There were 9,896 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 802 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.? The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims for June 28 - July 4 was 135,177.? The U.S. Department of Labor adjusted last week's initial claim number to 7,732 and continuing claims to 141,748. Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.?

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $31,917,695.63 for the week of June 28 - July 4. There was one less payment day on July 3 due to the holiday, so payments will be down partially for this reason and picked up the following week. The following industries had the most claims:?

• Manufacturing (3,448)
• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc. (1,670)
• Health Care & Social Assistance (833)
• Accommodation & Food Services (586)
• Retail Trade (519)

A total of $83,076,000 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of June 28 - July 4, 2020. Since April 4, 2020, a total of $1,226,788,800 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $4,433,528.82 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of June 28 - July 4, 2020.

A total of $3,327,234 in benefits has been paid in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits for the week of June 28 - July 4, 2020. Since May 27, 2020, a total of $25,197,874.39 in PEUC benefits have been paid.?

Individuals who have exhausted the additional 13 weeks of PEUC benefits may be eligible for State Extended Benefits (EB) announced in June.? Claimants should continue to file weekly claims so that their claims can be reviewed to determine eligibility for State EB.? These benefits may provide eligible claimants up to an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits.? Not everyone who qualified for PEUC will be eligible for State EB.? More information is available here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/state-extended-benefits

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2006.16.20.pdf

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2006.23.20.pdf

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit ?https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of May 31 - June 6, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, May 31, and Saturday, June 6, was 10,112. There were 9,265 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 847 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.? The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims for May 31-June 6 was 159,966, down 2,596 from the previous week. The U.S. Department of Labor provided updates to last week's number of initial and continuing claims made between May 24-30, which amounts to 6,499 initial claims and 162,562 continuing claims. Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.?

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $40,515,869.87 for the week of May 31- June 6. The following industries had the most claims:?

• Manufacturing (2,080)

• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc. (1,421)

• Health Care & Social Assistance (1,010)

• Education Services (722)

• Accommodation & Food Services (693)

A total of $99,184,800 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of May 31-June 6, 2020. Since April 4, 2020, a total of $865,975,800 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $5,963,233 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of May 31-June 6, 2020.

A total of $3,715,715 in benefits has been paid in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits for the week of May 31-June 6, 2020. Since May 27, 2020, a total of $11,262,531.98 in PEUC benefits have been paid.?

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here:? ?https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2006.05.20.pdf

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2005.30.20_0.pdf?

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit ?https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of September 6 - 12, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, Sept. 6, and Saturday, Sept. 12, was 4,962. There were 4,462 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 500 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.? The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims for Sept. 6-12 was 65,653, a decrease of 5,300 from the previous week.?

The U.S. Department of Labor adjusted last week's initial claim number down to 5,252 (a decrease of 437) and continuing claims to 70,953 (a decrease of 691 for a total decrease of 1,128).? Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.?

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $18,386,679.39 for the week of Sept. 6-12. The following industries had the most claims:?

• Construction (1,174)
• Manufacturing (890)
• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc (531)
• Health Care & Social Assistance (415)
• Accommodation & Food Services (332)

A total of $2,787,600 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of Sept. 6-12, 2020 which? were retroactive payments as the program ended July 25, 2020.? Since April 4, 2020, a total of $1,600,401,343 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $3,557,772 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of Sept. 6-12, 2020.

A total of $5,239,683.30 in benefits has been paid in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits for the week of Sept. 6-12, 2020. Since May 27, 2020, a total of $66,836,556.49 in PEUC benefits have been paid.?

A total of $1,008,215.61 in benefits has been paid in State Extended Benefits for the week of Sept. 6-12, 2020. Since July 21, 2020, a total of $6,503,493.01 in Extended Benefits have been paid.?

A total of $38,117,700 in benefits has been paid in Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) benefits for the week of Sept. 6-12, 2020. Since Sept. 3, 2020, a total of $141,048,000 in LWA benefits have been paid.?

FEMA and USDOL have informed Iowa that the LWA program has ended.? Iowans whose unemployment is the result of the pandemic, and who are eligible for at least $100 in benefits each week, will qualify for up to a maximum of six weeks of $300 in additional weekly benefits. More information can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/lost-wages-assistance.

Individuals who have exhausted the additional 13 weeks of PEUC benefits may be eligible for State Extended Benefits (EB) announced in June.? Claimants should continue to file weekly claims so that their claims can be reviewed to determine eligibility for State EB.? These benefits may provide eligible claimants up to an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits.? Not everyone who qualified for PEUC will be eligible for State EB.? More information is available here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/state-extended-benefits

IWD has reinstated the work search requirement. Those who will be required to begin work searches will be notified by IWD.? We have also posted updates on our website regarding this requirement.? There are currently over 59,000 job openings at https://www.iowaworks.gov. ? Not all claimants will be required to begin work searches, including for example, those who are receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits due to a medical condition or lack of childcare.?

IowaWORKS centers and satellite offices are providing limited in-person services to assist customers with work search activities.? Basic services include assistance with job searches, applications, resume preparation and other services to help Iowans with their employment needs. Individuals should telephone their local office first to schedule an appointment as walk- in services may be limited in order to follow social distancing recommendations. Workshops and classes will not be offered at this time.? Customers with questions regarding unemployment insurance benefits should continue to contact the IWD call center at 1-866-239-0843 or email uiclaimshelp@iwd.iowa.gov to obtain information about their claims.?????

Employers are required to notify their employees about Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code Section 871-22.19. The requirement ensures that workers are aware of the benefits they may be eligible for if they become unemployed or experience a reduction in hours.?

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2009.3.20.pdf

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2009.10.20.pdf

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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?Director Beth Townsend Appointed to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans

DES MOINES - Iowa Workforce Development announced today that Director Beth Townsend has been appointed by Robert Wilkie, U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to serve as a member of the Department of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans (ACMV).? Director Townsend's appointment is effective immediately and will continue through June 2022.

"I trust Beth's judgment and advice on a myriad of issues that impact Veterans and minority group members across Iowa, and I have no doubt that she will quickly become a respected voice on the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans," said Gov. Kim Reynolds.? "She is exceptionally well-qualified to advise the Secretary on the administration of VA benefits and services to minority Veterans; assess the needs of minority Veterans with respect to such benefits; and evaluate whether VA compensation, medical and rehabilitation services, outreach, and other programs are meeting those needs."

The ACMV advises the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on the effectiveness of the VA in delivering and administering benefits, programs and services to minority Veterans.? The ACMV also reviews reports and studies pertaining to compensation, health care, rehabilitation, outreach and other benefit programs administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.? By law, the ACMV focuses its efforts on serving five minority groups including Asian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Pacific Islander Americans and Native Americans.

"I am deeply humbled by this appointment and excited to continue the significant improvements made by the Trump Administration in providing Veterans with more accessible and better quality care," said Director Townsend.? "The work of ACMV is vital to ensuring that the VA addresses the needs of our minority Veterans so they also receive equitable care from the VA.? I look forward to helping to ensure that minority Veterans receive the benefit of the promise America made to them in exchange for their sacrifice in serving our great country."?

This appointment will not impact Director Townsend's current leadership position with Iowa Workforce Development, and all costs associated with her participation as a member of the ACMV will be covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.? More information about the ACMV can be found on the Department of Veterans Affairs website at: ?https://www.va.gov/centerforminorityveterans/acmv/

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of November 22-28, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial unemployment claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, Nov. 22, and Saturday, Nov. 28, was 5,593, a decrease of 3,337 from last week's adjusted numbers. There were 5,151 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 442 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.? The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims was 34,178, a decrease of 2,624 from the previous week.? November through February are traditionally the months IWD sees the most unemployment claims, driven by increased claims in construction, agriculture, landscaping and manufacturing due to seasonal layoffs.? For the week ending Nov. 28, 2020, nearly 53.2% of claimants indicated their claims were not COVID-19 related.

The U.S. Department of Labor adjusted last week's initial claim number to 8,930 (a decrease of 528) and continuing claims to 36,802 (a decrease of 310 for a total decrease of 838 overall).? Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.??

Due to Governor Reynolds' recent Proclamation of Disaster Emergency, IowaWORKS Centers will temporarily cease providing in-person services. Customers are encouraged to log onto IowaWORKS.gov or the mobile application to continue their work search activities. ? Further assistance can also be received by visiting the website or calling customer service.

For the week ending Nov. 28, 2020, unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $8,142,234.45. The following industries had the most claims:

• ? ? Construction (1,273)
• ? ? Manufacturing (983)
• ? ? Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc (554)
• ? ? Accommodation & Food Services (455)
• ? ? Health Care & Social Assistance (406)

A total of $869,400 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid, which were retroactive payments as the program ended July 25, 2020.? Since April 4, 2020, a total of $1,623,338,233 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $3,333,680 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits. Since April 13, 2020, a total of $153,860,398.54 in PUA benefits has been paid.

A total of $7,604,499.29 in benefits has been paid in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits. Since May 27, 2020, a total of $149,152,289.42 in PEUC benefits have been paid.

A total of $29,006.14 was paid in State Extended Benefits (EB).? Since July 21, 2020, a total of $17,562,025.87 in State EB has been paid.? The United States Department of Labor notified Iowa that due to our economic recovery, the State EB program ended the week ending October 31, 2020.? EB cannot be paid to any claimant for weeks of unemployment after October 31, 2020, even if they have not yet received 13 weeks of EB.? Those claimants who lose EB may be eligible for the PUA benefit program if they have remaining benefit weeks available in their current benefit year.? Claimants may apply for PUA at www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/pua-information.

IWD has reinstated the work search requirement. Those who will be required to begin work searches will be notified by IWD.? We have also posted updates on our website regarding this requirement.? There are currently almost 68,000 job openings at https://www.iowaworks.gov. ? Not all claimants will be required to begin work searches, including for example, those who are receiving PUA benefits due to a medical condition or lack of childcare.

Employers are required to notify their employees about Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code Section 871-22.19. The requirement ensures that workers are aware of the benefits they may be eligible for if they become unemployed or experience a reduction in hours.

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2009.3.20.pdf

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2009.10.20.pdf

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Individuals in Clinton County Now Eligible to Apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance

DES MOINES - Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) - also known as FEMA Individual Assistance - is now available to eligible individuals in Clinton County impacted by the August derecho.? DUA expands eligibility for unemployment benefits and provides assistance to the self-employed, including business owners and farmers.? Iowa Workforce Development is now accepting applications for DUA from Clinton County individuals whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted due to severe storms beginning Aug. 10, 2020.

Other counties that were previously approved for DUA for the August derecho are Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama.??

Individuals from Clinton County must file a DUA application by Nov. 6, 2020.

Eligibility

To be eligible for DUA benefits under Presidential Disaster Declaration FEMA-[DR-4557], individuals:

• Must be an unemployed or self-unemployed worker whose unemployment was caused as a direct result of the major disaster declared by the President.
• Must be a U.S. national or a qualified alien;
• Does not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits from any state;
• Must have worked or was self-employed in, or was scheduled to begin work or self-employment in one of the counties listed above; and
• Must establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income.

Also eligible to apply for DUA are individuals who:

• Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to their place of employment as a direct result of a disaster; or
• Cannot perform work or self-employment because of an injury caused as a direct result of the disaster; or
• Became the breadwinner or major support of a household because of the death of the head of the household; or
• Cannot work or perform self-employment due to closure of a facility by the federal government.

What You Need

Individuals will need their Social Security Number and the name and address of their last employer or prospective employer to file for DUA.? Applicants are required to provide proof (at the time of filing or within 21 days of filing their DUA claim) that they were employed or self-employed at the time the disaster occurred or were scheduled to begin (or resume) a job or self-employment when the disaster occurred.? A copy of the most recent federal income tax forms or check stubs may also be required (self-employed individuals should also provide Schedules SE and Schedule C or Schedule F).

Deadline?

Individuals from Clinton County must file a DUA application by Nov. 6, 2020.? Applications received after the deadlines will be considered untimely, unless the individual provides good cause for filing after the deadline.? Individuals can receive up to 27 weeks of DUA benefits as long as his/her unemployment continues to be a result of the disaster.? Eligibility for DUA benefits will be determined on a week-to-week basis.

How To Apply

Individuals who may be eligible for assistance, must file a claim online at iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/file-claim-unemployment-insurance-benefits.? Claim applications can be filed online at any time. ? If assistance is needed over the phone, please call IWD Customer Service at 1-866-239-0843.? After a claim application has been submitted, refer to the additional DUA information on our website at iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/disaster-unemployment-assistance-0.??

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of August 30 - September 5, 2020

DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, Aug. 30, and Saturday, Sept. 5, was 5,689. There were 5,077 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 612 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.? The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims for Aug. 30 - Sept. 5 was 71,644, a decrease of 4,233 from the previous week.?

The U.S. Department of Labor adjusted last week's initial claim number down to 5,914 (a decrease of 463) and continuing claims to 75,877 (a decrease of 955 for a total decrease of 1,418).? Iowa Workforce Development relies upon the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor to report its numbers and as such, adopts the revisions to the previously published data.?

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $20,169,684.43 for the week of Aug. 30 - Sept. 5. The following industries had the most claims:?

• Manufacturing (1,311)

• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc. (682)

• Accommodation & Food Services (565)

• Health Care & Social Assistance (490)

• Construction (385)

A total of $4,502,400 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2020 which? were retroactive payments as the program ended July 25, 2020.? Since April 4, 2020, a total of $1,597,613,743 in FPUC benefits has been paid.

A total of $4,214,260 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2020.

A total of $4,980,813.36 in benefits has been paid in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits for the week of Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2020. Since May 27, 2020, a total of $61,596,873.19 in PEUC benefits have been paid.?

A total of $1,006,048.62 in benefits has been paid in State Extended Benefits for the week of Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2020. Since July 21, 2020, a total of $5,495,277.40 in Extended Benefits have been paid.?

FEMA and USDOL have informed Iowa that the "Lost Wages Assistance" program has ended.? Iowans whose unemployment is the result of the pandemic, and who are eligible for at least $100 in benefits each week, will qualify for up to a maximum of six weeks of $300 in additional weekly benefits.? Iowans should receive the payments they are eligible for in the next 10-14 business days.? More information can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/lost-wages-assistance.

Individuals who have exhausted the additional 13 weeks of PEUC benefits may be eligible for State Extended Benefits (EB) announced in June.? Claimants should continue to file weekly claims so that their claims can be reviewed to determine eligibility for State EB.? These benefits may provide eligible claimants up to an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits.? Not everyone who qualified for PEUC will be eligible for State EB.? More information is available here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/state-extended-benefits

IWD has reinstated the work search requirement. Those who will be required to begin work searches will be notified by IWD.? We have also posted updates on our website regarding this requirement.? There are currently over 59,000 job openings at https://www.iowaworks.gov. ? Not all claimants will be required to begin work searches, including for example, those who are receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits due to a medical condition or lack of childcare.?

IowaWORKS centers and satellite offices are providing limited in-person services to assist customers with work search activities.? Basic services include assistance with job searches, applications, resume preparation and other services to help Iowans with their employment needs. Individuals should telephone their local office first to schedule an appointment as walk- in services may be limited in order to follow social distancing recommendations. Workshops and classes will not be offered at this time.? Customers with questions regarding unemployment insurance benefits should continue to contact the IWD call center at 1-866-239-0843 or email uiclaimshelp@iwd.iowa.gov to obtain information about their claims.?????

Employers are required to notify their employees about Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code Section 871-22.19. The requirement ensures that workers are aware of the benefits they may be eligible for if they become unemployed or experience a reduction in hours.?

Employees and employers who have questions regarding returning to work should review the Frequently Asked Questions for each group on our website.? Assistance for employers can be found here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Employers%2009.3.20.pdf

Employees can find assistance here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/FAQs%20Workers%2009.3.20.pdf

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa''s Unemployment Rate Falls to 4.7 Percent in September

DES MOINES, IOWA - Iowa's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 4.7 percent in September. This is a decline from August''s rate of 6.0 percent. The U.S. unemployment rate dropped to 7.9 percent in September.

"September is the fifth consecutive month we have seen a drop in unemployment since the beginning of the pandemic and peak unemployment in April," said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. "We have over 64,000 job openings across the state. Additionally, we have awarded over $10 million in grants focused on helping those whose jobs have been affected get back into the workplace by completing short term training or starting a registered apprenticeship program.? Details available at www.FutureReadyIowa.gov" ? ? ? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????

The number of unemployed Iowans declined to 76,600 in September. The current estimate is 111,400 lower than the Covid-19 peak in April of 188,000 and 27,900 higher than the year ago level of 48,700.

The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,536,200 in September. This figure was 11,600 higher than April and 166,300 lower than one year ago.??

Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment

Total nonfarm employment advanced by 7,300 jobs in September, lifting the total number of jobs to 1,499,500. The gain this month is the fifth-consecutive since April and more than expected following a much smaller increase of 4,500 in August. Service industries took another step towards recovery this month with gains in leisure and hospitality along with retail. Goods producing industries showed little overall movement with sluggishness in construction offsetting hiring in manufacturing industries. Government added 2,400 jobs due to local government education ramping up as students return to in-person classes. This monthly increase leaves government down just 2.3 percent versus last year. Total nonfarm employment overall is down 5.4 percent compared to one year ago.

Leisure and hospitality gained the most jobs in September (+4,100) and was predominantly filled by eating and drinking establishments. The gain was an improvement over the much smaller increase of 1,400 in August. Manufacturing added jobs for the fifth-consecutive month (+2,100) with hiring nearly even between durable and non-durable goods factories. Trade and transportation advanced by 1,600 due mostly to hiring in retail trade (+1,000). The increase was a nice recovery following a loss of 1,100 in August. Job losses in September were led by construction which shed 2,500 jobs and has only increased once in the last eight months. The only other significant loss was within professional and business services (-500). The loss this month was fueled by layoffs in administrative support and waste management services.

Over the past five months, 104,000 jobs have been added back by Iowa businesses, equating to a gain of 7.5 percent in total nonfarm employment. Leisure and hospitality still has some ground to make up, but has added the most jobs during that span (+47,200 or 66.1 percent). Government has gained 16,100 jobs due mostly to schools returning to in-person classes. Retail trade has been able to adapt and recover, particularly within grocery and general merchandise establishments and has added 15,600 jobs over the past five months. While most sectors have added jobs since April, those sectors not faring as well are construction (-3,500) and transportation and warehousing (-1,000).

Unemployment Insurance Claims

The total number of initial claims trended down in September by 503 (-2.2 percent) versus August and have now fallen 134,410 (-85 percent) versus the peak of 157,300 five months ago. For continued claims, most statistics have been reduced to approximately 40 percent of the April levels. The number of claimants dropped by 23.1 percent from last month and are down 109,921 over the prior five months. The weeks paid dropped to 257,231 in September, less than half of the 652,623 paid in April, while the total amount paid to claimants fell to $84.5 million, less than half of the $213.5 million paid five months ago.

MEDIA ALERT:? Statewide data for October 2020 will be released on Friday, November 20, 2020. Local data for October 2020 will be posted to the IWD website on Tuesday, November 24, 2020.

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Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims filed for week of May 17 - May 23, 2020

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DES MOINES - The number of initial claims in Iowa, filed between Sunday, May 17, and Saturday, May 23, was 14,586. There were 13,365 initial claims by individuals who work and live in Iowa, and 1,221 claims by individuals who work in Iowa and live in another state.?

The number of continuing weekly unemployment claims was 180,679.

Unemployment insurance benefit payments totaled $48,828,481.83 for the same week.?

The following industries had the most claims:?

• Manufacturing (3,835)
• Industry Not Available - Self-employed, Independent Contractors, etc. (2,382)
• Health Care & Social Assistance (1,399)
• Retail Trade (923)
• Accommodation & Food Services (898)

A total of $104,376,000 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits was paid during the week of May 17-23, 2020. Since April 4, 2020, a total of $661,090,200 in benefits has been paid.

A total of $5,579,759 was paid in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits during the week of May 10-16, 2020.

This week IWD began to process Pandemic Extended Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits for individuals who have already received 26 weeks of benefits prior to or during the pandemic.? Claimants can expect to see deposits early next week for these claims including retroactive payments of PEUC and FPUC payments.?

For more information on the total data for this week's unemployment claims, please visit ?https://www.iowalmi.gov/unemployment-insurance-statistics

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Iowa''s Unemployment Rate Drops to 3.6 Percent in October

DES MOINES - Iowa's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 3.6 percent in October. The state's jobless rate was 2.8 percent one year ago. The U.S. unemployment rate fell to 6.9 percent in October.

"We have to balance fighting the COVID-19 pandemic with a targeted approach that protects lives while also keeping our economy open and our kids safely in the classroom," said Gov. Reynolds. "This good economic news is a reflection of Iowans' resiliency, our ability to innovate, and work together to protect each other."

"The drop in the unemployment rate in October is a ray of sunshine and demonstrates that Iowa continues to recover economically from the effects of the pandemic," said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development. "As we enter the traditional time of higher unemployment due to seasonal layoffs, it''s important to note that employers are still looking for employees and there are over 72,000 openings posted on iowaworks.gov."

The number of unemployed Iowans declined to 58,500 in October - down from 78,700 in September.? The current estimate is 129,500 lower than the Covid-19 peak in April of 188,000 and only 9,200 higher than the year ago level of 49,300. The total number of working Iowans increased to 1,574,300 in October. This figure is 15,200 higher than September's number of 1,559,100 and 49,700 higher than April 2020.? Iowa's peak unemployment rate during the pandemic was 11.0 percent in April and now has fallen by 7.4 percentage points.

Seasonally Adjusted Nonfarm Employment

In October, Iowa total nonfarm employment grew by 10,600 jobs. This month's increase was nearly identical to the large gain last month, although growth in October was heavily fueled by growth in the goods-producing sector. Monthly job gains have averaged 8,400 over the last three months and 19,600 since the April low. Private firms in total gained 11,800 jobs in October while government shed 1,200 jobs.

Construction added the most jobs in October (+4,700). This increase was unexpected and the first gain since May. Retail trade rose by 1,600 with much of the hiring stemming from general merchandise stores. Transportation, warehousing, and utilities also added jobs in October (+900), allowing the trade and transportation super sector to add 3,000 jobs versus September. Administrative support and waste management posted a large gain versus last month (+2,400) and has averaged monthly gains of 1,200 jobs since April. Nondurable goods manufacturing rose in October (+1,600) with strong hiring in food manufacturing. This sector has grown every month since April. Private sector job losses were sparse and included accommodations and food services?????????? (-1,300). This is the first monthly job loss for this sector in the last six months. Durable goods factories pared 800 jobs in the wake of a September increase of 1,200 jobs.

Since April, Iowa firms have added 117,300 jobs back to payrolls. While leisure and hospitality did not make up ground this month, this sector is up 47,100 jobs during that span with gains being largest in accommodations and food services (+38,500). Trade and transportation has been bolstered by unexpected hiring in the retail sector and has gained 16,600 jobs. Education and healthcare has made up ground in both sectors with 13,000 jobs added back. Manufacturing has benefitted from a surging nondurable goods sector and is up 9,400 jobs over the last seven months.

Unemployment Insurance Claims

The total number of initial claims trended down in October by 3,254 (-14.2 percent) versus September and have now fallen 137,688 (-87.5 percent) versus the peak of 157,324 five months ago. For continued claims, most statistics have been reduced to approximately 77 percent of the April levels. The number of claimants dropped by 37.2 percent from last month and are down 137,001 over the prior five months. The weeks paid dropped to 142,549 in October, less than half of the 652,623 paid in April, while the total amount paid to claimants fell to $48 million, less than half of the $213.5 million paid five months ago.

MEDIA ALERT:? Local data for October will be posted to the IWD website on Tuesday, November 24, 2020. Statewide data for November 2020 will be released on Friday, December 18, 2020.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Workers impacted by COVID-19 closures can apply online for unemployment benefits

DES MOINES - Employees impacted by COVID-19 closures can and should apply for unemployment benefits online here: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/file-claim-unemployment-insurance-benefits??In order to comply with current recommended guidelines regarding reducing large gatherings, Iowa Workforce Development strongly encourages claimants to use the online filing system. If customers do not have online access, they can call the unemployment insurance customer service line at 1-866-239-0843 and staff can file your claim for you over the phone.

For more information, visit?www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Gov. Reynolds announces Coronavirus Relief Fund Employer Innovation Fund grant awards

The grants will help power Iowa's economic recovery by providing those most affected by the pandemic get new job skills training that lead to high demand jobs.

DES MOINES - Today, Governor Reynolds announced awards to 65 applicants for the Coronavirus Relief Fund Employer Innovation Fund Grant.? The program will assist local employers, nonprofits, community colleges, high schools, private universities, and the University of Iowa provide postsecondary training and education to Iowans whose employment has been impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.? More than $4.3 million has been awarded to the winning projects.?

"Future Ready Iowa's Employer Innovation Fund is centered around a grassroots effort to solve local workforce challenges while helping Iowans find economic opportunity in their community. The winning projects address barriers for Iowans who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic by providing training opportunities that will build on our economic recovery," said Gov. Reynolds. "These programs not only help those affected by the pandemic, they will also focus on recruiting our minority and underrepresented communities to help us diversify our workforce and provide equal chances of success for all Iowans."

The Coronavirus Relief Fund Employer Innovation Fund grants can be used to cover the cost of training, books, and equipment as well as often providing much needed wrap-around support that address other barriers some Iowans face when trying to obtain skills training.

"Once again, employers, nonprofits and educators have come up with amazing and innovative solutions to help their fellow Iowans by creating training opportunities in high demand occupations," said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development.? "From IT, healthcare, advanced manufacturing to first responders, these programs will help expand our skilled workforce, diversify our workplaces and help those most affected by the pandemic."?

The Future Ready Iowa goal is to have 70 percent of Iowans in the workforce with education and training beyond high school by 2025.? Approximately 60 percent of Iowa's current workforce meets this education and training criteria.? Visit www.FutureReadyIowa.gov for more information.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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Gov. Reynolds announces unemployment insurance tax extension to assist small businesses

DES MOINES - Today, Governor Reynolds announced that first quarter unemployment tax payments that are due April 30th? will be delayed till the end of the 2nd quarter, July 31, 2020.? Eligible employers include those employers with 50 or fewer employees. Eligible employers also must be in good standing with no delinquencies in quarterly payments.?

"Iowa's small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities and the engine behind our economy. Now more than ever we need to make sure they have the ability to manage their cash flow," said Gov. Reynolds. "It's critically important that we continue to take steps in support of our small business community during these challenging times."?

To qualify for the extension, the employer must be current on all quarterly tax payments before the 1st quarter of 2020 regardless of whether or not they are seeking an extension of tax payment. All employers must file Quarterly Employers Contribution and Payroll Report electronically by 4:30 on April 24th to avoid late report filing penalty.?

Payments for Q1 would be due when Q2 payments are due, July 31, 2020. No interest or penalties will accrue for delayed payments for the eligible group.? The extension of payment deadline without interest is not a holiday or forgiveness and the taxes will be due July 31, 2020. Employers still need to file their quarterly reports, which contain employee wage data necessary to compute benefit eligibility and amounts to be paid.

"More than 95% of businesses in Iowa, or 72,264 employers, have 50 or fewer employees.? They employ a total of 417,536 Iowans, pay approximately $4.2 billion in wages. Providing an extension to paying unemployment insurance taxes will help the vast majority of employers during this difficult time," said Director Beth Townsend, Iowa Workforce Development.

For an employer who elects to take advantage of the extension, please contact our Unemployment Insurance Tax division at either 1-888-848-7442 or by sending an email to Q1tax@iwd.iowa.gov. ? If an employer would like to request additional time to pay the tax, please contact the Unemployment Insurance Tax Division. IWD recommends sending an email versus a phone call as there is a high call volume during this time that may lead to extended wait times.? Employers must notify IWD of intent to delay payment by Friday, April 24th at 4:30 pm.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov

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