Job Training Partnership Act, Title III, Demonstration Program: Dislocated Worker Manufacturing Technology Demonstration Program

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Employment and Training Administration

Job Training Partnership Act, Title III, Demonstration Program:

Dislocated Worker Manufacturing Technology Demonstration Program

AGENCY: Employment and Training Administration, Labor.

ACTION: Notice of Availability of Funds and Solicitation for Grant

Applications (SGA).

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SUMMARY: All information required to submit a grant application is

contained in this announcement. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL),

Employment and Training Administration (ETA), announces a demonstration

program to test the ability of the workforce development system to

partner with employers, training providers and others to train

dislocated workers in the skills necessary to obtain work requiring

technology skills in occupations in manufacturing industry settings

with long-term growth potential. The program will be funded with

Secretary's National Reserve funds appropriated for Title III of the

Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) and administered in accordance with

29 CFR part 95 and 97 as applicable.

This notice provides information on the process that eligible

entities must use to apply for these demonstration funds and how

grantees will be selected. It is anticipated that up to $10 million

will be available for funding demonstration projects covered by this

solicitation, with no award being more than $1 million.

DATES: The closing date for receipt of proposals is February 16, 1999

at 4 p.m. (Eastern Time).

ADDRESSES: Applications shall be mailed to: U.S. Department of Labor;

Employment and Training Administration; Division of Acquisition and

Assistance; Attention: Yvonne Harrell, Reference: SGA/DAA 99-001; 200

Constitution Avenue, NW., Room S-4203; Washington, DC 20210.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Fax questions to Yvonne Harrell,

Division of Acquisition and Assistance at (202) 219-8739 (this is not a

toll-free number).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This announcement consists of five parts.

Part I describes the authorities and purpose of the demonstration

program and identifies demonstration policy. Part II describes the

application process and provides guidelines for use in applying for

demonstration grants. Part III includes the statement of work for the

demonstration projects. Part IV describes the selection process,

including the criteria that will be used in reviewing and evaluating

applications. Part V discusses the demonstration program's monitoring,

reporting and evaluation.

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Part I. Background

A. Authorities

Section 323(a)(6) of JTPA (29 U.S.C. 1662b) authorizes the use for

demonstration programs of funds reserved under section 302 of JTPA (29

U.S.C. 1652) and provided by the Secretary for that purpose under

section 322 of JTPA (29 U.S.C. 1662a). Demonstration program grantees

must comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations

in setting up and carrying out their programs.

B. Purpose

It is now well understood that the economy has transitioned from

the industrial age to the information age. In this age, the most valued

commodities are the skills and knowledge possessed by the individual.

Global competition has reached an unprecedented level. Technology plays

an increasingly important role in this global scenario as nations

strive to build things or provide services that are faster, better or

cheaper than their competitors.

In this era of global competition and rapid technological advances,

technology is the most critical driver of economic growth. The U.S.

Department of Commerce, Office of Technology Policy, has reported

advances in technology to be the single most important determining

factor in sustaining economic growth, estimated to account for as much

as half of the Nation's long-term economic growth over the past 50

years. Technology as a method for achieving a practical result

encompasses the techniques, machines and equipment, controls,

processes, and organization of work, as well as the ideas, skills, and

knowledge underlying the work process. Traditional work environments

have altered, as have the requisite skills needed by workers to succeed

in today's workplace. Technology provides the tools for creating a wide

array of new and improved products and new services that reach well

beyond the narrow confines of traditional labor markets. A product can

now be provided from almost any community, each with the potential to

reach global markets. The ability of a company to innovate, incorporate

technology, improve products or services, increase market share and

thus expand capacity and employment is the engine of economic growth.

Information technologies affect almost every sector and every

industry in the United States, in terms of digitally based products,

services, and production and work processes. The very nature of

advanced technology lies in the ability of a business or industry to

identify, assess, adopt and incorporate information based technologies

into everyday business and production processes. The information/

knowledge-based workplace of today's leading companies requires workers

to possess conceptual, analytical, communication, interpersonal, and

self-management skills beyond the basic academic and technical skills

of the traditional workplace. There is often a skills deficit

experienced by employers who continuously push the envelope to

innovate, and adopt new technology in order to stay ahead of

competitors, both domestic and international.

With accelerated changes in technology, America's workers often

discover their skill base has become out of date. New approaches are

needed to help American workers stay competitive. Workers need to know

and understand what skill standards employers are looking for, and they

need to have the means to raise their skills to match that demand.

Our Nation's workforce development system is working to meet this

need, but skill shortages in technology are currently very high in some

industry sectors and geographic areas. Severe shortages of workers who

can apply and use advanced technologies could undermine U.S.

innovation, productivity, and competitiveness in world markets. A

steady supply of skill workers will help our Nation's industries remain

competitive. More importantly, these workers need to possess the

appropriate skills demanded in the workplace. Ideally, a system of

``just in time'' training would be able to supply skilled workers that

meet industry driven standards and certifications.

The purpose of this demonstration is to test the ability of the

Nation's workforce development system to partner with employers,

training providers and others to train dislocated workers in the skills

necessary to obtain work requiring technology skills in manufacturing

occupations and industries experiencing shortages of such workers.

Industries such as aerospace, computers and electronics

manufacturing, machinery and motor vehicles, chemicals and petroleum,

and specialized instruments and devices as well as bio-technical/

biomedical could be among the manufacturing industries experiencing

technology skill shortages among those workers they seek to employ.

Manufacturing technologies have gone through several metamorphoses.

The impact of these technological trends is often felt as a loss in the

number of unskilled jobs with an increase in more technology-savvy jobs

required to control automated, computer-operated machinery. As the

tools and equipment become more automated, the skills needed for entry

level technicians and operators multiply. Increasing use of robotics

requires employees who once performed manual labor to become

technicians who control automatic processes remotely by computer.

Assemblers frequently are now required to possess computer skills for

controlling automatic processes remotely. The shift towards automating

the production line has resulted in a need for workers who are able to

work with computers, robotics, and Computer Numerically Controlled

(CNC) machines. Instead of interacting with the products, line workers

may now manage machines which perform the processes.

A large number of the layoffs that occur within a manufacturing

company are associated with elimination or reduction of a product and

changes in technology. They generally have the largest impact on those

with lower or outdated skills. Amid massive and continual restructuring

within manufacturing, it is imperative for manufacturing employees to

commit to lifelong learning. The technology and the push to produce a

particular product that created their present position is often soon to

be replaced by another generation of product and production process.

As a part of the Nation's Workforce Development System, programs

presently funded under Title III of the Job Training Partnership Act,

and soon to be funded under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998,

annually provide adjustment and training assistance to over 500,000

individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own.

These employment and training funds targeted to serve dislocated

workers are managed through State and local workforce development

organizations who design and operate a national system for training and

reemployment programs based on: (1) The needs and characteristics of

the local dislocated worker population; (2) the needs of local

employers for skilled workers; and (3) the capabilities and capacities

of training institutions and other local service providers. The

emerging infrastructure of One-Stop/Career Center systems provides

comprehensive and integrated workforce development services to both

participants and employers.

Under this demonstration, the Department will fund projects that

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specifically document the existence of and respond to the reported

shortages in their geographical area of workers in manufacturing jobs

requiring technology skills. For purposes of this solicitation, the

term ``technology'' may be viewed broadly as the link between people

and technology in the workplace.

Successful applications may be based on the use of new or

innovative service strategies such as the involvement of under

represented groups of dislocated workers for existing training

programs; the development and use of curricula geared specifically to

eligible groups of dislocated workers and the needs of employers with

openings in technology-related jobs; or the development of concentrated

training models for workers with a residue of skill knowledge from

previous related employment, or use of curriculum and skills training

interventions designed to impart knowledge, skills and abilities of

industry skill standards (where available or under development).

Each successful application will document where there are strong

linkages with specific employers' demand for workers with technology-

related skills. The demonstration program goals of placement of the

project participants in jobs using technology in manufacturing

industries which are targeted in the proposal must be clearly addressed

and sufficient assurance must be demonstrated that this goal can be

accomplished.

Participant satisfaction with project services and with their jobs,

as well as their employer's satisfaction with project services and with

the participants' skill level and work, should be measured not only at

the end of the project but also at critical points identified by the

applicant during the progress of the demonstration's implementation.

C. Demonstration Policy

1. Grant Awards

DOL anticipates awarding ten (10) to fifteen (15) grants, not to

exceed $1 million per grant. It is anticipated that awards will be made

by April 30, 1999. Award decisions will be published on the Internet at

ETA's Home Page at http://www.doleta.gov.

2. Eligible Applicants

Any organization capable of fulfilling the terms and conditions of

this solicitation may apply. Applicants who are not Substate grantees

under JTPA Title III, or One-Stop Career Center Operators or Workforce

Investment Boards under WIA must submit a letter from the authorized

signatory of one or more of such organizations continuing comments on

the applicant's proposal. Under Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995,

section 18, an organization described in section 501(c)(4) of the

Internal Revenue Code of 1986 which engages in lobbying activities

shall not be eligible for the receipt of Federal funds constituting an

award grant or loan. This is a risk free Federal program: Therefore,

all for profit organizations that apply will not be able to receive a

fee if awarded a grant.

3. Eligible Participants

All participants in projects funded under this demonstration

program must be either:

(a) Eligible dislocated workers as defined at JTPA section

301(a)(1), and 314(h)(1) of the Job Training Partnership Act. These

sections of the law may be viewed at http://doleta.gov/regs/statutes/

jtpalaw.htm. Proposed projects may target subgroups of the eligible

population based on factors such as (but not limited to) occupation,

industry, nature of dislocation, and reason for unemployment. Note:

Individuals whose eligibility is based upon their status as long-term

unemployed (section 301(a)(1)(C) JTPA) must have a demonstrated

attachment to the labor force.

(b) Incumbent workers. These are currently-employed workers whose

employers have determined that the workers require training in order to

help keep their firms competitive and the subject workers employed,

avert layoffs, upgrade workers' skills, increase wages earned by

employees and/or keep workers skills competitive. Such technology

training would support further job retention and career development for

improved economic self-sufficiency for employed workers, especially

those most vulnerable to job loss, and increase the capability of the

employing firm(s) to access and retain skilled workers.

4. Applicable Technology

Applicant's proposal must describe the technology skills to be

demonstrated in the grant in the context of the skills presently in use

in the industry or plants--e.g., how this demonstration is related to

the introduction of new equipment, upgrading incumbent workers,

development of a new product. If this technology application will

enable improvements in the manufacturing process, a description of such

benefits should be provided. If this technology is linked to a specific

employer or group of employers, discuss the impact on present skill

levels caused by the demonstration activities including changes caused

by equipment, materials or work organization. Where applicable, relate

changes to factors affecting workers such as increased or decreased

decision-making responsibility, changes in advancement opportunities or

transferability of new skills, changes in the pace of work, and wage

increases related to increased skill attainment. Indicate whether this

technology could be considered ``leading edge'' by the industry.

5. Allowable Activities

Funds provided through this demonstration may be used only to

provide services of the type described at section 314(c) and (d) of

JTPA. Supportive services may be provided when they are necessary to

enable an individual who is eligible for training but cannot afford to

pay for such supportive services, to participate in the training

program. These services are defined in section 4(24) of JTPA. (Use

ETA's web site reference above to view.)

Grant funds may be used to reimburse employers for extraordinary

costs associated with on-the-job training of program participants, in

accordance with the provisions of 20 CFR 627.240. In addition to the

limitations and requirements provided in JTPA, particularly at Part C

of Title I, prospective applicants should be aware that grant funds may

not be used for the following purposes: (a) For training that an

employer is in a position to provide and would have provided in the

absence of the requested grant; (b) to pay salaries for program

participants; and (c) for acquisition of production equipment.

Applicants may budget limited amounts of grant funds to work with

technical experts or consultants to provide advice and develop more

complete project plans after a grant award, however, the level of

detail in the project plan may affect the amount of funding provided.

Grant activities may include: (a) Development, testing and initial

application of curricula focused on intensive, short-term training to

get participants into productive, high demand information or advanced

technology employment as quickly as possible;

(b) Working with employers in develop and apply worksite-based

learning strategies that utilize cutting-edge technology and equipment;

(c) Development of employer-based training programs that will take

advantage of opportunities created by employers' needs for workers with

new technology skills;

(d) Development and initial application of contextual learning

opportunities for participants to learn

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technology theory in a classroom setting while applying that learning

in an on-the-job setting;

(e) Use of curriculum and skills training programs that are

designed to impart learning to meet employer-specified or industry

specific skill standards or certification requirements;

(f) Convening of an Employer Advisory Board to identify skills gaps

of job applicants and present workers affecting the ability of the

employer to offer a competitive product and develop a strategy for

retraining;

(g) Innovative linkage and collaboration between employers and the

local Substate Grantee and/or One-Stop/Career Center system to ensure a

steady supply of high demand, high skill information or advanced

technology workers.

The above are illustrative examples and are not intended to be an

exhaustive listing of possible demonstration project designs or

approaches which may achieve the purpose of this solicitation. However,

successful applicants must demonstrate the direct involvement by

employers experiencing skill shortages in the design and operation of

the project as well as provide substantive documentation about the

existence of skill shortages for the industry or occupations to be

targeted by the proposed project. Documentation should include a

description of the employer involvement anticipated in the project. An

employer advisory committee may be one means of accomplishing employer

involvement.

6. Coordination

In order to maximize the use of public resources and avoid

duplication of effort, applicants will coordinate the delivery of

services under this demonstration with the delivery of services under

other programs (public or private), available to all or part of the

target group. Projects linking or collaborating with an existing USDOL

funded One-Stop/Career Center initiative and/or local JTPA Substate

Grantee located within a project area fulfill this requirement. The use

of Pell Grants for eligible workers or the use of State training or

education funds provided for dislocated workers or certain types of

employers should also be addressed in the application.

7. Period of Performance

The period of performance shall be 27 months from the date of

execution by the Government. Delivery of services to participants shall

commence within 90 days of execution of a grant unless a significant

portion of the grant implementation addresses the development of new

curriculum or planning strategies. If enrollments are not anticipated

to occur within 90 days, the circumstances should be specifically

addressed in the application with the reasons provided and an

alternative time frame provided.

8. Option to Extend

DOL may elect to exercise its option to extend these grants for an

additional one (1) or two (2) years of operation, based on the

availability of demonstration funding under the Workforce Investment

Act, successful program operation, and the determination that a

grantee's initial program findings could further inform the workforce

development system through refinement of the present demonstration.

Part II. Application Process and Guidelines

A. Contents

An original and three (3) copies of the application shall be

submitted. The application shall consist of two (2) separate and

distinct parts: Part I, the Financial Proposal, and Part II, the

Technical Proposal.

1. Financial Application

Part I, the Financial Proposal, shall contain the SF-424,

``Application for Federal Assistance''. (Appendix A) and the ``Budget

Information Sheet'' (Appendix B). The Federal Domestic Assistance

Catalog number is 17.246. The budget shall include on separate pages a

detailed breakout of each proposed budget line item found on the Budget

Information Sheet, including detailed administrative costs and costs

for one or more of the following categories as applicable: basic

readjustment services, supportive services, and retraining services.

The Salaries line item shall be used to document the project staffing

plan by providing a detailed listing of each staff position providing

more than .05 FTE support to the project, by annual salary, number of

months assigned to demonstration responsibilities, and FTE percentage

to be charged to the grant. In addition, for the Contractual line item,

list each of the planned contracts and the amount of the contract.

Where a contract amount exceeds $75,000, a detailed backup budget to

how the amount of the contract was derived must be included. For each

budget line item that includes funds or in-kind contributions from a

source other than the grant funds, identify the source, the amount, and

in-kind contributions, including any restrictions that may apply to

these funds.

Costs associated with the development of curriculum and other one-

time costs should be noted separately in order for reviewers to

identify costs associated with development and start-up as well as on-

going participant costs.

2. Technical Proposal

Part II, the technical proposal shall demonstrate the offeror's

capabilities in accordance with the Statement of Work in Part III of

this solicitation. A grant application shall be limited to twenty (20)

double-spaced, single-side, 8.5-inch x 11-inch pages with 1-inch

margins. Attachments shall not exceed ten (10) pages. Text type shall

be 12 point or larger. Applications that do not meet these requirements

will not be considered. Each application shall include the Checklist

provided as Appendix C, a Time line outlining project activities

provided as Appendix D, and an Executive Summary not to exceed two (2)

pages. NO COST DATA OR REFERENCE TO PRICE SHALL BE INCLUDED IN THE

TECHNICAL PROPOSAL.

B. Hand-Delivered Applications

Applications should be mailed no later than five (5) days prior to

the closing date for the receipt of applications. However, if

applications are hand-delivered, they must be received at the

designated place by 4 p.m., Eastern Time on the closing date for

receipt of applications. All overnight mail will be considered to be

hand-delivered and must be received at the designated place by the

specified time and closing date. Telegraphed and/or faxed proposals

will not be honored. Applications that fail to adhere to the above

instructions will not be honored.

C. Late Applications

Any application received at the office designated in the

solicitation after the exact time specified for receipt will not be

considered unless it:

(1) Was sent by U.S. Postal Service registered or certified mail

not later than the fifth calendar day before the closing date specified

for receipt of applications (e.g., an offer submitted in response to a

solicitation requiring receipt of application by the 30th of January

must have been mailed by the 25th); or

(2) Was sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail Next Day Service--

Post Office to Addressee, not later than 5 p.m. at the place of mailing

two working days prior to the date specified for receipt of

application. The term

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``working days'' excludes weekends and U.S. Federal holidays.

The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a

late application sent by U.S. Postal Service registered or certified

mail is the U.S. postmark on the envelope or wrapper and on the

original receipt from the U.S. Postal Service. Both postmarks must show

a legible date or the proposal shall be processed as if it had been

mailed late. ``Postmark'' means a printed, stamped, or otherwise placed

impression (exclusive of a postage meter machine impression) that is

readily identifiable without further action as having been supplied and

affixed by an employee of the U.S. Postal Service on the date of

mailing. Therefore, applicants should request the postal clerk to place

a legible hand cancellation ``bull's eye'' postmark on both the receipt

and the envelope or wrapper.

The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a

late application sent by ``Express Mail Next-Day Service--Post Office

to Addressee'' is the date entered by the post office receiving clerk

on the ``Express Mail Next Day Service--Post Office to Addressee''

label and the postmarks on both the envelope and wrapper and the

original receipt from the U.S. Postal Service. ``Postmark'' has the

same meaning as defined above. Therefore, an applicant should request

the postal clerk to place a legible hand cancellation ``bull's eye''

postmark on both the receipt and the envelope or wrapper.

D. Withdrawal of Applications

Applications may be withdrawn by written notice or telegram

(including mailgram) received at any time before award. Applications

may be withdrawn in person by the applicant or by an authorized

representative thereof, if the representative's identity is made known

and the representative signs a receipt for the proposal.

Part III. Statement of Work

Each grant application must follow the format outlined in this

Part. For sections A through G below, each application should include:

(1) Information that indicates adherence to the provisions

described in Part I, Background (Authorities, Purpose, and

Demonstration Policy) and Part II, Application Process and Guidelines,

of this announcement; and (2) other information that the applicant

believes will address the selection criteria identified in Part IV of

this solicitation.

Information required under A and B below shall be provided

separately for each labor market area where dislocated workers will be

served. To the extent that the project design differs for different

geographic areas, information required under section C below shall be

provided for each geographic area.

A. Target Population

Describe the characteristics of the proposed target population for

the project, e.g.,educational level, previous occupation, age range,

likely transferable skills, length of unemployment, and language

limitations. If that population is limited to one or more subgroups of

the dislocated worker population, explain the basis for such

limitation. Describe the size and needs of the target population in the

local area as they relate to the services available to the grant.

Provide documentation showing there is a significant number of

dislocated workers with the target population's characteristics in the

project area(s). If the project seeks to serve under represented

subgroups such as minority groups, women, older workers (50 years of

age and older), disabled individuals, within a particular occupation

and the selected subgroup has unique characteristics or needs such

characteristics or needs should be identified. Substantive and timely

documentation of the subgroup's under representation must be included.

Note: Up to 5 points of extra credit will be awarded when the targeted

population includes at least 40 percent planned enrollment of an under

represented subgroup for the occupation in which training will take

place.

Indicate how the number of workers to be enrolled was determined.

Sufficient documentation should be provided to show that workers with

appropriate characteristics to meet the purposes of this grant are

available in sufficient numbers to meet the recruitment goals of the

grant recognizing that not all workers with appropriate characteristics

will chose to participate.

No more than 20 percent of the total demonstration funding

allocated by the Department pursuant to this Solicitation for Grant

Applications shall be for incumbent workers.

B. Available Jobs

Jobs targeted for this demonstration must be related to the

manufacturing industry covered by the Standard Industrial

Classification(SIC) Codes 21-39 and must involve the use of technology

skills in a manufacturing setting. Describe the jobs that will be

available and targeted for placement to project participants upon

completion of training and placement services including the

strategy(ies) for identifying job openings that appear appropriate to

the training planned and meet the target wage at placement goals

established in the proposal. Include information about the number and

type of jobs, wage information and the specific set of skills,

knowledge or duties (industry-sponsored standards of certifications).

Provide documentation (Footnote sources) that a shortage of qualified

workers exists in the local area to fill positions in the targeted

occupations in the absence of the proposed project. Anecdotal data

should not be used. Information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

(BLS) available through a variety of web sites including BLS, O*NET and

America's Labor Market Information System (ALMIS), should be considered

as a key source of documentation. In addition, State Occupational

Information Coordinating Committee (SOICC) and JTPA Substate Grantee

local job training plan may also be considered. Other sources from the

private sector such as Chamber of Commerce or local Technology Council

surveys as well as university studies are also acceptable. Data must

relate to local employment shortages.

Substantive linkages with specific employers who are experiencing

skill shortages among their present workforce and/or the demand for

additional employees with technology skills in documented occupational

shortages must be provided. Letters from employers who have made a

commitment to the demonstration project are the most appropriate form

of documentation.

If some placements will be made with employers who have not been

identified at the time of application, describe the job development and

placement strategy to be used to assure placement of demonstration

participants.

C. Project Design

(1) Purpose. Describe the specific purpose or purposes of the

proposed project.

(2) Service Plan. Describe the services to be provided from the

time of selection of participants through placement of those

participants in jobs. Describe any services to be provided subsequent

to job placement. The descriptions shall provide a clear understanding

of the services and support that will be necessary for participants to

be placed successfully in jobs and to retain those jobs, including

services not funded under the grant, and

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ways to address participants' financial needs during periods of

training. Grant-funded activities should, at a minimum, include

recruitment, eligibility determination, assessment, retraining, job

placement, and supportive services.

(a) Outreach and recruitment. Describe how eligible dislocated

workers will be identified and recruited for participation in the

project. Recruitment efforts may address public service communications

and announcements, use of media, coordination with the JTPA Service

Delivery Area or Substate Grantee, use of community-based organizations

and other service groups. Describe the applicant's experience in

reaching dislocated workers, especially the targeted population. It is

highly recommended that non-JTPA applicants partner with the

appropriate JTPA Title III Substate Grantee(s) or local One-Stop Career

Center system to plan and implement effective outreach and recruitment

strategies.

(b) Eligibility determination. Describe the process to be used in

determining the JTPA Title III eligibility of potential participants in

the project. It is highly recommended that non-JTPA applicants partner

with the appropriate JTPA Title III substate grantee(s) or local One-

Stop Career Center system to carry out eligibility determination.

(c) Selection criteria. Describe the criteria and process to be

used in selecting those individuals to be served by the project from

among the total number of eligible persons recruited for the project.

Explain how the selection criteria relate to the specific purpose of

the proposed project. Identify any assessment tools that will be used

as part of selection process.

(d) Training services. Describe the training to be provided--

classroom, experiential, on-the-job, internships, etc. Include the

length (days and hours) and schedule, any perquisite courses, and

customization to account for transferable skills, previous education

(note: whether the training requires new and higher educational levels

than previous skill training in the same industry), and particular

circumstances of the target population and the skill needs of the

hiring employer(s). Include information to demonstrate that any

proposed training provider is qualified to deliver training that meets

appropriate employment standards, and any applicable certification or

licensing requirement. Past performance, qualifications of instructors,

accreditation of curricula, and similar matters should be addressed if

appropriate. Address the costs of proposed training and other services

relative to the costs of similar training and services including

courses provided by both public and private providers in the local

area. If the training is to be customized to account for individual

differences in skills levels of participants or employer hiring needs,

describe how these considerations will be taken into account in the

delivery of the training.

The training provided must support the information provided

regarding skill shortages and demand for jobs using technology skills.

(e) Job Placement. Describe the role of the employer linkages

previously addressed in assuring the availability of jobs for

participants completing training. If an Employer Advisory Committee is

the primary employer linkage, the members of the committee should be

listed and the type of expertise they bring to the committee noted.

Provide a discussion of the role(s) of the advisory committee and its

projected meeting frequency. Describe any additional job seeking skills

training or assistance provided to participants completing training.

(f) Post placement services. Describe any post placement services

to be provided and explain their value to the achievement of the

project's purpose and planned outcomes.

(g) Supportive services. Describe those supportive services

determined to be appropriate to the target population's needs. Describe

policies and procedures to ensure that supportive services are provided

only when they are necessary to enable an individual who is eligible

for training but cannot afford to pay for such supportive services, to

participate in the training program. Indicate how the participants'

financial needs during the period of training will be addressed.

(h) Relocation. Describe the limitations and eligibility criteria

for relocation assistance, if such assistance is included in the

proposal.

(3) Participant flow. Provide a flowchart noting length of time for

various activities (such as one day for assessment, etc.) to illustrate

how the project will ensure access to necessary and appropriate

reemployment and retraining services. Show the sequence of services and

the criteria to be used to determine the appropriateness of specific

services for particular participants. Note where service choice options

will be available to participants. Indicate the average length of

participation from eligibility determination and enrollment in the

demonstration project to placement in an unsubsidized job.

(4) Relationship to prior experience. Discuss how the applicant's

prior experience in working with dislocated individuals affects or

influences the design of the proposed project. Note especially lessons

learned or positive experiences that will be replicated.

D. Planned Outcomes

A description of the project outcomes and of the specific measures,

and planned achievement levels, that will be used to determine the

success of the project. These outcomes and measures must include, but

are not limited to:

(1) The number of participants projected: To be enrolled in

services, to successfully complete services through the project, and to

be placed into new jobs; a minimum of 80 percent entered employment

rate is required;

(2) Measurable effects of the services provided to project

participants as indicated by gains in individuals' skills,

competencies, or other outcomes;

(3) Wages of participants prior to, at placement and 90 days after

placement: (a) For dislocated worker participants: a minimum of 90

percent wage replacement rate is required for at least 75 percent of

the participants and an average 90 percent wage replacement for the

overall demonstration project is required; (b) for incumbent worker

participants: a minimum of 100 percent wage retention is required for

all participants successfully completing training and meeting the

competencies/skills levels specified by the employer prior to the

training.

(4) For projects serving dislocated workers, as part of the

targeted outcome for wage at placement, each project should benchmark

at least two key wage averages for the labor market in which each

project will operate. Suggested benchmarks might include:

(a) The average weekly wage in the manufacturing sector, if the

project is focused on manufacturing technology; the average weekly wage

for technical and skilled trade jobs; or the average weekly wage for

computer programmers and (b) the average wage at placement for the JTPA

Title III, dislocated worker program operated by the local Substate

Grantee. Provide an explanation of the particular benchmarks chosen for

the project. For incumbent workers, indicate the present wage level of

the workers to be trained and discuss how this wage level compares with

the appropriate benchmark wage for the local labor market area.

(5) For each project serving dislocated workers, at least 80

percent of the individuals placed shall be placed at a wage that meets

or exceeds (a) the average benchmarked wage in the labor market area,

or (b) the average wage at placement for the last program year

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completed (currently 1997) for the JTPA Title III dislocated worker

program operated by the local Substate Grantee in the targeted labor

market, whichever is greater. The manufacturing wage for any labor

market may be obtained from the Covered Wages and Employment Program

administered by each State's Employment Service.

(6) Customer satisfaction with the project services including

participant at critical points in the service delivery process as well

as upon placement and employer satisfaction with the skills and

preparation of the participants placed with their organization;

(7) Planned average cost per placement (amount of the grant request

divided by the number of program-related placements, and the cost per

placement for continued placements (the amount of the grant request

minus development/start-up costs divided by the number of program-

related placements); and

(8) Other additional measurable, performance-based outcomes that

are relevant to the project and which may be readily assessed during

the period of performance of the project, such as cost effectiveness of

services, comparison with other available service strategies. Where

possible, it would also be useful to look at production improvement and

other measures the employer uses regarding efficiency, product quality

and output.

Note: An explanation of how such additional measures are

relevant to the purpose of the demonstration program shall be

included in the application.

E. Collaboration

Describe the nature and extent of collaboration and working

relationships between the applicant and other workforce development

partners in the design and implementation of the proposed project.

Include services to be provided through resources other than grant

funds under this demonstration. Provide documentation that the

collaboration described can reasonably be expected to occur (signed

letters of agreement and/or the charter of a formally established

advisory council are considered the strongest evidence, while letters

of support are considered weaker evidence. Because a core purpose of

this demonstration program involves the publicly funded workforce

system, the applicant shall describe working relationships with local

Substate Grantee(s), including One-Stop/Career Center partners where

present.

Describe the number and types of employers to be directly involved

in implementation of the demonstration through activities as

participation on an advisory council, provision of input to curriculum

development and design, training provider, internship supervision,

participation in establishment of local skill standards, etc. Describe

activities, presently in place or to be undertaken to link activities

to program interventions under this grant to employers, industry, or

curriculum/learning centers currently designing and developing

occupational/job skill standards and certifications. Collaboration

should focus on linking employers involved in grant activities with any

employer, industry, or trade and worker association that has already

developed or is developing skill standards certifications. Employer

linkages must be specifically addressed in the application and

documentation provided of the specific role(s) the employer(s) will

play in implementation of the grant provided.

Skill standards play an important role in ensuring participants are

meeting the accepted standards of the industry. Grant applicants may

show how skills standards and O*NET are used to help dislocated/

incumbent workers acquire training and new jobs. Skill standards can

mean National Skill Standards (NSS) developed under the auspices of the

National Skill Standards Board or other skill standards recognized by

employers as valid requirements for jobs. O*NET refers to the

Occupational Information Network that replaces the Dictionary of

Occupational Titles and defines all jobs in terms of worker

requirements, occupational requirements, experience requirements,

worker characteristics, occupational characteristics and occupation-

specific requirements. The applicant may request a brochure explaining

O*NET at the following e-mail address: [email protected].

Skill standards and O*NET are useful for structuring training

curriculum, assessing dislocated/incumbent workers' skills and

interests, and defining career paths from one occupation to another.

Their application in the proposed project's training design would

indicate close links to employers and an understanding of the demands

faced by workers in high performance workplaces.

Applicants are encouraged to commit matching funds to the

implementation and management of their proposed programs. Matches may

be in the form of cash or in-kind contributions. These may include but

are not limited to such contributions as the development of training

modules; payment of tuition costs for training; support for child care

or transportation; and provision of staff time at no cost to the

project.

Sources of matching funds may include but are not limited to

employers, employer associations, labor organizations, and training

institutions. With reference to the sources and amounts of project

funds and in-kind contributions identified in the financial proposal as

being other than those requested under the grant applied for, describe

the basis for valuation of those funds and contributions.

Note: National Reserve Account grants for specific plant

closures and layoffs may not be used to match demonstration grant

funds, these grants provide sufficient funds to meet the needs of

any worker in the targeted dislocation event. However, NRA grant

funds may be used to purchase 50 percent or less of the total

training slots in a training developed with demonstration grant

funds.

Documentation of consultation on the project concept from

applicable labor organizations must be submitted when 20 percent or

more of the targeted population is represented by one or more labor

organizations, or where the training is for jobs where a labor

organization represents a substantial number of workers engaged in

similar work. Where the union has been involved in bargaining relative

to the introduction of either the technology or the addition of new

skilled workers at the workplace, provide information as to any role

the union played in the design and delivery of the training as well as

any impact on the workers with respect to the growth or shrinkage in

the number of jobs, the selection of workers for retraining,

F. Innovation

Describe key innovations in the proposed project, including (but

not limited to) innovations in concept to be tested, type of

participant to be served, services provided, delivery of services,

training methods, job development, or job retention strategies. These

innovations should be unique to the ongoing knowledge base of service

delivery and training presently available to the workforce system.

Explain the impact of such innovation on project costs to substantiate

the budget items designated as development and start-up costs.

G. Previous Experience

If the applicant has had a demonstration grant with the Department

of Labor, Education or HHS within the last three years, list the title

of the grant, the amount of the grant, the funding agency, a Federal

contact phone number and a brief summary of purpose of the grant. For

those grants, funded by

[[Page 69089]]

the Department of Labor explain how this grant application differs from

grant activity. Explain how the proposed project is similar to and

differs from the applicant's prior and current operations.

H. Project Management

(1) Structure. Describe the management structure for the project,

including a staffing plan that describes each position and the

percentage of its time to be assigned to this project and assures that

sufficient staff are available to implement the project in a timely and

effective manner. Provide an organizational chart showing the

relationship among project management and operational components,

including those at multiple sites of the project, in the overall

structure of the applicant's organization. Note: It is highly

recommended for applicants requesting $500,000 or more that a full-time

project director be available to ensure timely implementation of the

project.

(2) Program Integrity. Describe the mechanisms to ensure financial

accountability for grant funds and performance accountability relative

to job placements, in accordance with standards for financial

management and participant data systems in 29 CFR part 95 or 97, as

appropriate, and 20 CFR 627.425. Explain the basis for the applicant's

administrative authority over the management and operational

components.

Describe how information will be collected to determine the

achievement of project outcomes as indicated in section D of this part;

and report on participants, outcomes, and expenditures.

(3) Monitoring and Reporting. Describe how the project will keep

records of its activities, as required in 29 CFR parts 95 and 97 and 20

CFR 631.63 as appropriate, which will include information such as the

following:

(a) Benchmarks. Provide a Time Line of implementation and projected

performance benchmarks covering the period of performance of the

project (Appendix E). Include a monthly schedule of planned

implementation activities and start-up events (such as curriculum

development, selection of advisory council, advisory council meetings,

hiring of staff, and completion of lease arrangement for space,

development of an internal program progress reporting system, design of

customer satisfaction measures, initiation of customer satisfaction

activities for participants/for employers); quarterly projections of

planned participant activity, showing cumulative numbers of

enrollments, participation in training and other services, placements,

and terminations; and quarterly cumulative expenditure projections. The

quarterly performance projection data may be shown in the same

implementation benchmark timeline or separately.

(b) Participant progress. Describe how a participant's continuing

participation in the project will be monitored, including determination

of successful progress in training activities.

(c) Project performance. Identify the information on project

performance that will be collected on a short-term basis (e.g., weekly

or monthly) by program managers for internal project management to

determine whether the project is accomplishing its objectives as

planned and whether project adjustments are necessary.

Describe the process and procedures to be used to obtain feedback

from participants, employers, and any other appropriate parties on the

responsiveness and effectiveness of the services provided. The

description shall identify the types of information to be obtained, the

methods and frequency of data collection, and ways in which the

information will be used in implementing and managing the project.

Grantees may employ focus groups and surveys, in addition to other

methods, to collect feedback information. Technical assistance in the

design and implementation of customer satisfaction data collection and

analysis may be provided by DOL.

(d) Impact of Collaboration and Innovation. Describe the process

for assessing and reporting on the impact of collaboration and

innovation in the project with respect to the purpose and goals of the

demonstration program and the specific purpose and goals of the

project.

(4) Grievance Procedure. If the applicant is a JTPA administrative

entity or service provider, assure that a grievance procedure is

presently in place. Otherwise, describe the grievance procedure to be

used for grievances and complaints from participants, contractors, and

other interested parties, consistent with the requirements at Section

144 of JTPA and 20 CFR 631.64(b) and (c).

(5) Previous Project Management Experience. Provide an objective

demonstration of the grant applicant's ability to manage the project,

ensure the integrity of the grant funds, and deliver the proposed

performance. Indicate the grant applicant's past experience in the

management of grant-funded projects similar to that being proposed,

particularly regarding oversight and operating functions including

financial management.

(6) Sustainability and Replicability. Provide assurances that if

the project is successful, the demonstration partners will continue to

improve and develop the demonstrated approach. Describe the aspects of

the demonstration approach that will allow other work force development

entities to replicate the proposed project. Note: The cost per

participant will be a consideration in any replication consideration by

other entities. Discuss the potential applicability of the project, or

aspects of the project (such as new assessment tools, etc.), to other

dislocated worker programs.

Part IV. Evaluation Criteria

Selection of grantees for awards will be made after careful

evaluation of grant applications by a panel selected for that purpose

by DOL. Panel results will be advisory in nature and not binding on the

ETA Grant Officer. Panelists shall evaluate proposals for acceptability

based upon overall responsiveness in accordance with the factors below.

A. Target Population (10 Points)

The description of the characteristics of the target group to be

served is clear and meaningful, and sufficiently detailed to determine

the potential participants' service need. Documentation is provided

showing that a significant number of eligible dislocated workers who

possess these characteristics are available for participation within

the project area. Sufficient information is provided to explain how the

number of dislocated workers to be enrolled in the project was

determined. The recruitment plan supports the number of planned

enrollments. The target population is appropriate for the specific

purpose of the proposed project. The project identifies under

represented groups to be trained in the targeted occupation(s).

B. Targeted Jobs (15 Points)

The jobs in the manufacturing industry identified by SIC code are

clearly available to workers who have received appropriate training and

preparation given:

(1) The match between the documented skill shortage and the

training planned;

(2) The documentation provided specifying that training meets or is

developed based on industry driven skill standards or certifications;

(3) The substantial level of involvement of employers in making

known their needs regarding requisite worker skills necessary for

hiring program completers

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(4) The documentation and reliability of job availability is based

upon recognized, reliable and timely sources of information

(5) Where appropriate, the role of workers or representatives of a

labor organization representing the workers in the design and/or

delivery of training in enhancing worker skills during workplace change

C. Service Plan (12 Points)

The scope of services to be provided is consistent with the

demonstration program and project purposes and goals. The scope of

services to be provided is adequate to meet the needs of the target

population given:

(1) Their characteristics and circumstances;

(2) The complexity of the training and the skills to be developed

relative to their characteristics and previous job experience

(3) The jobs in which they are to be placed relative to targeted

wage at placement goals;

(4) The length of program participation planned prior to placement.

D. Costs (20 Points)

Proposed costs are reasonable in relation to the characteristics

and circumstances of the target group, the services to be provided,

planned outcomes, the management plan, and coordination/collaboration

with other entities, including One-Stop/Career Center organizations.

The cost information provided regarding similar training available

through other training providers is within an acceptable range or

sufficient rationale is provided for the cost differences. The impact

of development/start-up and innovation on costs is explained clearly in

the proposal and is reasonable.

Identification is provided of the specific sources and amounts of

other funds which will be used, in addition to funds provided through

this grant, to implement the project. The application must include

information on any non-JTPA resources committed to this project,

including employer funds, grants, and other forms of assistance, public

and private. Value and level of external resources being contributed,

including employer contributions, to achieve program goals will be

taken into consideration in the rating process.

The degree to which other interested partners in the workforce

development system invest resources to test the concepts put forth in

the application.

D. Management (10 Points)

The project management plan is designed to track project

performance in such a way as to assure that benchmarks are achieved in

a timely manner, issues affecting performance such as employer

involvement, collaboration partners commitments, etc. are quickly

identified and addressed, and planned outcomes will be achieved in a

cost effective manner.

The applicant (as a part of a collaborative approach) has

experience working with technology training. The management structure

and management plan for the proposed project will ensure the integrity

of the funds requested. The project work plan demonstrates the

applicant's ability to effectively track project progress with respect

to planned expenditures. Sufficient procedures are in place to use the

information obtained by the project operator(s) to take corrective

action if indicated. In addition, review by appropriate labor

organizations, where applicable, is documented.

The proposal includes a method of assessing customer feedback for

both participants and employers involved, and establishes a mechanism

to take into account the results of such feedback as part of a

continuous system of management and operation of the project.

E. Collaboration (15 Points)

The proposal includes evidence of direct participation by JTPA

SubState Grantees and One-Stop/Career Center entities (where present)

in the planning and management of this grant. Evidence of participation

of employers whose positions are targeted under the grant is present.

Evidence of coordination with other programs and entities for project

design or provision of services is also be provided. Evidence is

presented that ensures cooperation of coordinating entities, as

applicable, for the life of the proposed project. The project includes

a reasonable method of assessing and reporting on the impact of such

coordination, relative to the demonstration purpose and goals and the

specific purpose and goals of the proposed project.

F. Innovation (13 Points)

The proposal demonstrates innovation in the concept(s) to be

tested, the project's design, and/or the services to be provided.

``Innovation'' refers to the degree to which such concept(s), design

and/or services are not currently found in dislocated worker programs.

The project includes a reasonable method of assessing and reporting on

the impact of such innovation, relative to the demonstration program

and project purposes and goals.

G. Sustainability and Replicability (5 Points)

The proposal provides evidence that, if successful, activities

supported by the demonstration grant will be continued after the

expiration date of the grant, using JTPA Title III formula-allotted

funds or other public or private resources. The likelihood that the

approach may be applicable to a broad range of dislocated worker

programs across the country. The proposal provides evidence that the

approach and training strategy(ies) used can be replicated by other

workforce development partners to address technology skill shortages in

their local area.

Grant applications will be evaluated for the reasonableness of

proposed costs, considering the proposed target group, targeted jobs,

services, outcomes, management plan, and coordination with other

entities.

Applicants are advised that discussions may be necessary in order

to clarify any inconsistency or ambiguity in their applications. The

final decision on awards will be based on what is most advantageous to

the Federal Government as determined by the ETA Grant Officer. The

Government may elect to award grant(s) without discussion with the

applicant(s). The applicant's signature on the Application for Federal

Assistance (Standard Form) SF-424 constitutes a binding offer.

Part V. Monitoring, Reporting and Evaluation

A. Monitoring

The Department shall be responsible for ensuring effective

implementation of each competitive grant project in accordance with the

Act, the Regulations, the provisions of this announcement and the

negotiated grant agreement. Applicants should assume that at least one

on-site project review will be conducted by Department staff, or their

designees. This review will focus on the project's performance in

meeting the grant's programmatic goals and participant outcomes,

complying with the targeting requirements regarding participants who

are served, expenditure of grant funds on allowable activities,

collaboration with other organizations as required, and methods for

assessment of the responsiveness and effectiveness of the services

being provided. Grants may be subject to their

[[Page 69091]]

additional reviews at the discretion of the Department.

B. Reporting

DOL will arrange for or provide technical assistance to grantees in

establishing appropriate reporting and data collection methods and

processes taking into account the applicant's project management plan.

An effort will be made to accommodate and provide assistance to

grantees to be able to complete all reporting electronically.

Applicants selected as grantees will be required to provide the

following reports:

1. Monthly progress reports, during initial start-up and

implementation of the project, and Quarterly Progress Reports.

2. Standard Form 269, Financial Status Report Form, on a quarterly

basis.

3. Final Project Report including an assessment of project

performance. This report will be submitted in hard copy and on

electronic disk utilizing a format and instructions to be provided by

the Department.

C. Evaluation

DOL will arrange for or conduct an independent evaluation of the

outcomes, impacts, and benefits of the demonstration projects. Grantees

must agree to make available records on participants and employers as

well as project financial and management data and to provide access to

personnel, as specified by the evaluator(s) under the direction of the

Department.

Signed at Washington, DC, this 9th day of December, 1998.

Janice E. Perry,

Grant Officer.

Appendices

1. Appendix A--Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form

424)

2. Appendix B-- Budget Information Sheet

3. Appendix C--Application Checklist

4. Appendix D--Implementation Benchmarks and Time Line

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