Official City of Long Beach Statement Regarding Workforce Assistance by the City of Long Beach in Response to Virgin Orbit Layoffs

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PRESS RELEASE

The City of Long Beach is aware of the news reports announcing that Virgin Orbit will lay off approximately 85% of its workforce due to lack of funding. Upon confirmation from Virgin Orbit, the City will activate its Pacific Gateway workforce development Rapid Response Team (Team) to support those who have been laid off, which is reported to be in the hundreds. Pacific Gateway will be connecting with the Virgin Orbit Chief of People and Human Resources Department to make sure laid off employees are aware of the resources available through the City. The Team will help with obtaining unemployment benefits as well as assist in getting people connected with career opportunities at other space industry companies or other job opportunities in the community. The Team will also conduct an emergency job fair in Long Beach in the near future. The City will announce details as they are finalized. The City of Long Beach is committed to supporting the workforce during this challenging time for many.

From Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson
"With the unfortunate news today regarding a large workforce reduction out of Virgin Orbit, we are wrapping our arms around the people that will be layed off over the next few days to make sure they are supported," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "As quickly as possible, I am convening an emergency meeting with our City team, workforce development staff and space industry employers to see how we can come together to keep our workforce strong and amazing talent here in our city. There are a lot of space industry opportunities here in Long Beach and we are committed to seeing Space Beach grow and thrive."

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