NEWCASTLE, Wyo. (AP) — Energy industry layoffs are pushing applicants toward corrections and law enforcement jobs where recruits can be scarce.

Four career fairs were held after the two largest coal mines in the state laid off 460 workers combined and another company eliminated 37 jobs this spring.

Wyoming Highway Patrol Sgt. David Wagener said his agency made a conscious effort at the fairs to recruit former energy workers.

Wyoming Department of Corrections spokesman Mark Horan said about 20 hires used to work in the energy industry.

A Wyoming Honor Conservation Camp official said roughly 75 out of about 100 recent applications were filed by people who held energy industry jobs.

Casper Police Sgt. Ben Mattila said it will be interesting to see who stays if the industry rebounds.

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