HUNTINGTON, Ind. (WOWO): Area officials are trying to figure out how to help 700 workers who are about to become unemployed.

UTEC announced last month they’d be closing their factory in Huntington, meaning 700 people will be losing their jobs within the next two years. Officials from Huntington, Noble, Wabash and Grant counties met Monday with legislative representatives, state officials, and more to begin formulating a plan to provide help preparing resumes, searching for jobs and learning new skills.

Rick Farrant of Northeast Indiana Works tells the Journal Gazette he’s heard many UTEC employees are choosing to stay with the company until they’re officially let go, so they can receive IBEW union benefits through a severance package.