New York State Department of Labor Rapid Response staff continues to engage Tonawanda Coke(TC) employees that have been impacted due to the site closure earlier this week. Employees were alerted to the closure starting on Sunday, October 13, 2018. Since that time, Rapid Response staff members have assisted 23 individuals with re-employment services. Additionally, Unemployment Insurance staff experts have been on site to provide technical assistance in applying for this vital benefit.  

On Thursday, October 18, 2018, there will be two Rapid Response sessions for impacted TC employees at the United Steel Workers Union Hall, 810 Sheridan Avenue, Tonawanda, NY 14150. The sessions are open to all employees whether they are represented by the union or not. The sessions will take place at 9:00 am and 1:00 pm. A targeted career fair will be held from  10:30 am to 1:00 pm. A variety of local businesses including HDM, Sumitomo, Aurubis – Buffalo, St. Gobain and Whiting Door will be onsite to discuss their career opportunities. Additional targeted career fairs will be scheduled in the coming weeks. 

“We know how hard it can be to unexpectedly lose your job and that’s why our team has been on the ground since the beginning of this shut-down. We’re going to continue providing hands-on assistance to these displaced workers and we thank the United Steel Workers for opening their doors to help us do so,” said DOL Commissioner Roberta Reardon. “The services we provide are unique and tailored to an individual’s career needs, wants, and expectations. We’ll be by their sides through the entire job search process and we will continue to provide follow-up services and ongoing support. Please come join us on Thursday or visit one of our career centers. We’re absolutely here to help.”

Displaced workers are urged to stop into either the Buffalo Career Center (284 Main St, Buffalo, NY, 14202, 716.851.2600) or the Niagara Falls Career Center (Trott ACCESS Building, 1001 – 11th Street, Niagara Falls, 14301, 716.278.8258) for assistance.