Seattle's economy continues to change, and for many workers that change arrives as a layoff, a disrupted career path, or the need to start over in an unfamiliar field. A recent Seattle Times guest column by contributor Al Kemp looks at what career change can mean in this moment, especially for people navigating job loss and uncertainty. The piece includes perspectives from two WDC colleagues, Kristan Lortz and Harpreet Marwah, on the kinds of support workers need when work changes suddenly.

In early 2025, widespread federal layoffs across Washington triggered a coordinated statewide response. Led by the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County, partners quickly mobilized to connect displaced federal workers to unemployment support, job training, and reemployment services.

State and local agencies are coming together to support federal workers affected by recent layoffs, offering vital resources to help navigate this challenging time. A series of statewide webinars will provide information on unemployment benefits, health coverage options, and reemployment services. These efforts aim to ensure that impacted workers have access to the support they need to regain stability and plan their next steps.