New Career Center Opens in Montgomery County to Aid Displaced Federal Workers

Montgomery County, Maryland, has launched a pioneering career center aimed at providing specialized assistance to federal employees and contractors who have been laid off or are facing job insecurity due to federal workforce reductions. The Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center (FWCC), funded by the Montgomery County Government, is the first facility of its kind in the nation dedicated to offering personalized support and services to this unique population. The center’s opening comes at a critical time, coinciding with a federal shutdown and increasing uncertainty for those employed by the federal government.

The establishment of the FWCC was a proactive measure, with Montgomery County officials anticipating potential job losses and allocating resources to address the crisis. The center is designed to offer a range of services tailored to the needs of displaced federal workers, including assistance with federal resume writing and job placement. Additionally, individuals can access career and entrepreneurial coaching, along with professional development programs. The FWCC also provides access to the broader resources available through WorkSource Montgomery’s American Job Center. These resources include free workshops, financial counseling through the Financial Empowerment Center, and direct support from Maryland Department of Labor staff who can assist with unemployment insurance claims. While the core services are intended for Montgomery County residents, some events, such as job fairs, may be open to the general public. For those residing outside of Montgomery County, the FWCC staff will offer guidance on how to access similar services at local job centers in neighboring jurisdictions like Prince George’s County, Northern Virginia, and the District of Columbia.

The FWCC is situated within the Wheaton American Job Center, located at 11510 Georgia Avenue in Wheaton, Maryland. Its operational hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Individuals seeking to utilize the center’s services are encouraged to visit the Mobilize Montgomery website at https://mobilize-montgomery.com/fwcc/ to follow a three-step process for engagement. While walk-ins are accepted, making an appointment is recommended for a more streamlined experience. For those who require assistance or have inquiries, the FWCC can be reached via email at fwcc@worksourcemontgomery.com or by phone at 240-283-1509.

The initiative underscores Montgomery County’s dedication to supporting its workforce and local economy, particularly in light of the significant federal presence in the region. The FWCC represents a collaborative effort involving various local government agencies, state departments, and private sector partners. This coalition aims to strengthen the region’s economic resilience by helping federal workers and contractors navigate career transitions and re-enter new employment opportunities. The broader Mobilize Montgomery initiative, launched in March 2025, is designed to streamline support by connecting employers and employees with financial assistance, workforce programs, and business continuity resources.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Mobilize Montgomery.

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