State to help Intel workers affected by job cuts

Gov. Bill Richardson on Monday announced the formation of a team that will help the hundreds of workers at Intel's microchip plant who are expected to lose their jobs later this year.

Intel announced plans last week to cut more than 1,000 jobs at its Rio Rancho facility as it prepares to end production of an older silicon wafer technology at Fab 11. The computer chip manufacturer employs 4,700 workers in Rio Rancho.

Richardson said he wants the rapid response team in place to help workers make the transition into new jobs or training opportunities.

"I don't want to wait around for employees to be told of individual job cuts," he said. "Every state resource will be available and ready for when these employees need our help."

The state Labor Department is leading the effort, with help from the Office of Workforce Training and Development, Higher Education Department and the state Economic Development Department.

Richardson's office said the team has already met once and is contacting Intel officials and business leaders in Rio Rancho and Sandoval County to talk about the layoff package for employees.

Intel has said the reduction will be implemented throughout the plant, not just among workers at Fab 11.

A company spokeswoman said Intel plans to assess the skills it will require as it moves toward producing more advanced chips. Workers who don't meet staffing needs are expected to be notified in August.

Workers will be offered a severance package or they can opt into company redeployment program, Intel officials have said.