The number of American workers filing for unemployment benefits for the first time remains elevated, though below the highs of late spring and early summer.
More than 870,000 people filed initial jobless claims for the week ending September 19, according to the Department of Labor. The number of people continuing to claim weekly benefits was at 12.6 million for the week ending September 12.
Despite continuing layoffs in some industries and areas, there is some hiring going on, along with efforts to make sure unemployed workers have the skills needed for open jobs.
WorkingNation is always looking at stories addressing how different parts of the country are trying to get unemployed people back in the workforce. Here’s some of what we found this past week.
From Arizona: AZ Big Media reports LearnKey offers free job training courses for unemployed Arizonans, including how to job hunt in a digital world.
From Colorado: Steamboat Pilot & Today reports plan aims to provide coal workers with support for move into new careers.
From Idaho: Big Country News reports the state receives more than $1.5M in funding for AmeriCorps programs.
From Massachusetts: Energy News Network reports partnership will enroll commercial fishermen in a certification course that will qualify them to transport people and supplies to wind turbine sites.
From Missouri: News-Press NOW reports Missouri Western State University launches its Center for Workforce Development to provide training and continuing education opportunities for the region.
From North Dakota: Pierce County Tribune reports leaders are highlighting partnerships in wind energy that address workforce training and economic benefits.
From Vermont: Bennington Banner reports the Community College of Vermont has joined the AWS Academy to offer a cloud computing curriculum.
From Washington: The Reflector reports Washington State University Vancouver receives funds to help students access workforce opportunities and resources.
#ICYMI: Check out our past posts programs in different states and territories:
September 14: 8 programs addressing the highest unemployment rates in the U.S.
August 31: Need a job? Here are 8 programs that might help
August 24: Seeking work? Here are 8 states trying to get you back on the job
August 17: Unemployed? Here is how 8 more states are trying to get you back to work
August 10: Looking for work? Here are 8 ways 8 states are trying to help
We’ll keep looking, so check back for more stories from around the country.