Former HP workers discover a world of opportunity after getting laid off

Jeannette Weston spent 14 years at HP and never thought of leaving. But after being laid off in 2002, she’s happy in a new job at Citi Cards in Meridian.

Will the Hewlett-Packard Co. severance package payouts be a windfall that helps engineers kickstart new careers?

There are no guarantees, but many former HP employees have navigated this transition successfully, some in similar jobs and some in their own businesses. For instance:

• Jeannette Weston, 49, of Boise, worked at HP for 14 years before her job there ended in 2002. She estimates she earns 20 percent less at her new job with Citi Cards but says she has better benefits and more autonomy. "I’m happier. In the end it was a blessing," Weston said.

• Cliff Harrison, 59, of Horseshoe Bend, left HP eight years ago after 20 years with the company. He opened a gift and sporting goods store. "I wish I had done it earlier," Harrison said. He credits the lump sum payout in his severance agreement as the nest egg he needed to open his business.

HP recently announced it would reduce its worldwide Imaging and Printing Group staff by an unspecified number, including some jobs in Boise. Each departing worker will receive a severance package that includes between five and 14 months of pay as well as other benefits such as job training. Staff departures begin late this month, though some workers will stay until the fall, HP officials said.

Nan Connolly
The Idaho Statesman

Full Story: http://www.idahostatesman.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050501/NEWS0202/505010305/1029/NEWS02