DLI Hosts Rapid Response Event for UFP Lumber Workers in Missoula

• — August 07 2025

Missoula, Mont.- The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) hosted a Rapid Response event at the Hilton Garden Inn in Missoula to support Universal Forest Products (UFP) workers facing layoffs. 75 employees, making up three-quarters of the affected workers, were in attendance at the standing room only event. With the support of over 20 businesses, non-profits, and government agencies, the event provided personalized, professional assistance to workers and their families as they navigate the transition caused by the impending closure of UFP Industries’ Missoula facility.

“When layoffs happen, it’s not just a job that’s lost—it’s a disruption to someone’s plan for their future," said Commissioner Swanson. “Our goal at MTDLI is to ensure every Montanan has a pathway to a career and a plan to achieve it—especially those whose career plans have changed unexpectedly. Whether it’s retraining, relocation, or reemployment, our team is committed to helping each impacted worker chart a new course and take the next step to a more resilient future.”

At the event, DLI Job Service staff offered hands-on assistance with unemployment benefits applications, job search strategies, resume writing, and identifying upskilling opportunities for transitioning to new careers or industries. Community partners, including private sector businesses like Dick Anderson Construction, Weyerhaeuser, MT Knife Works, Dailys, and more, organized labor training partners from the Ironworkers and Laborers, and local nonprofits were present to provide support and recruit for job openings.

To further aid affected workers, DLI updated its Timber Skills Matching Tool, available at MontanaWorks.gov [montanaworks.gov]. This innovative tool matches skills gained in the timber industry with in-demand jobs across Montana, helping workers identify employment opportunities, address skill gaps, and access funding for training programs.

The Rapid Response event follows UFP Industries’ announcement in late July of 100 layoffs at its Missoula facility, set to take effect by the end of September. This marks another significant layoff in the region’s timber industry within a year, following DLI’s support for 250 workers laid off by Roseburg Forest Products and Pyramid Mountain Lumber in 2024.

DLI remains committed to providing ongoing tailored services, including career counseling, job placement assistance, and training resources to all affected timber industry workers in the coming weeks and months.
Individuals impacted by the recent layoffs at UFP Edge are eligible for support through existing National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG) funding previously awarded to Montana DLI for timber industry job losses. This grant can assist with career counseling, job training, supportive services, and reemployment opportunities tailored to affected workers.

UFP Industries employees can contact Job Service Missoula at (406) 728-7060 or visit MontanaWorks.gov/Job-Service-Montana [montanaworks.gov] for resources and to schedule consultations. Walk-in support is also available during regular business hours.

Contact

Jay Phillips: Deputy Commissioner, Department of Labor and Industry