Haizhu Peng O Sullivan has always dreamed of opening her own restaurant business. Although she had previously attempted to start her business, those efforts were unsuccessful due to a lack of knowledge. In her quest for improvement, she learned about the Immigrant/Refugee Restaurant Job Training Program and wanted to gain more insights into the restaurant industry to build her skills.

With the program's support, she aimed to pursue her goal with more knowledge and confidence. Throughout the training, she acquired vital skills in restaurant management, food safety, and cooking techniques. The instructors provided her with guidance and immense support when she had questions about opening a restaurant. Additionally, she earned a ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification through the program.

With her newfound knowledge and confidence, Haizhu continued to pursue her dream and felt much more prepared to open her business. After completing the training program, she successfully opened a ramen restaurant called Umaka Ramen in Lisle, Illinois.

Qi Hua (Eva) Liang has worked in the hotel and service industry for over twenty years. She has always dreamed of opening her own restaurant and becoming a business owner. When she learned about the Immigrant/Refugee Restaurant Job Training Program, she was eager to join. Eva was motivated to gain knowledge in restaurant management, develop her front-of-house and cashier skills, and enhance her cooking expertise.

Throughout the training program, she acquired many technical skills and knowledge of the requirements and regulations necessary for opening her own business, which prepared her to launch her restaurant with confidence. The instructors were consistently supportive, providing guidance and advice on how to open a restaurant.

After completing the training program, Eva left her hotel job, where she had worked for decades. She earned a ServSafe Food Protection Manager certificate and opened her own Chinese restaurant, Lang Hua Inc., in Homer Glen, IL.

Mikayla White, affectionately known as Micky, proudly embarked on her journey with Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) on January 15, 2024. During the initial one-on-one assessment, one key question was to detail their strengths. Micky responded enthusiastically with their naturally confident demeanor, saying, "I am a fast learner, driven, determined, smart, confident, likable, and, of course, charming." With a clear vision of their future, Micky set specific and ambitious goals for themselves, stating, "In three months, I will complete this training program; in six months, I will be employed as a metal worker; and in a year, I will either be accepted into an apprenticeship or be on the waiting list."

On March 22, 2024, Micky achieved a significant milestone by completing the rigorous 10-week classroom training program Chicago Women in Trades offered. This program equipped them with the essential skills required for a successful trade career and earned them respected credentials, including those from the American Welding Society and OSHA-10. The comprehensive curriculum included necessary career readiness skills such as interview preparation, resume writing assistance, financial literacy, and practical mock interviews. These elements ensured that Micky was well-prepared to secure employment in their chosen field. Micky's determination bore fruit on April 9, 2024, when Micky successfully obtained training-related employment at Freedmen Seating, where they began earning an impressive hourly wage of $22.00. As of 2025, Micky continues to thrive in their role while pursuing advanced certifications to enhance their skills and professional experience further.

In addition to Micky's personal and professional growth, Micky has shown unwavering dedication to the CWIT community. Micky has committed their time and efforts by volunteering for several events and workshops organized by Chicago Women in Trades, reflecting their appreciation for the support and opportunities they have received. Micky's journey exemplifies their personal ambition and commitment to uplifting other women in the welding trades.

Alena Pegus enthusiastically joined Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) on January 23, 2023. During a one-on-one assessment, she was asked why she was interested in welding compared to other trades. Alena replied, "I am inspired by my mom, a certified plumber, and my dad, a welder. I love building with my hands and want to do something impactful to show my kids someday." When asked to describe herself in three words, Alena said, "I am confident, caring, and thoughtful. I'm also honest, charming, soft-spoken, and a Taurus, living my life going with the flow of my spirit."

On March 31, 2023, Alena completed the CWIT 10-week classroom training program, earning American Welding Society and OSHA-10 credentials. This comprehensive training included essential career readiness skills such as interview preparation, resume assistance, financial literacy, and mock interviews, which equipped Alena to secure training-related employment. After her mock interviews, Alena received positive employer feedback and was recognized as one of the best interviewers. Her hard work paid off when, after meeting with an employer on May 22, 2023, she secured a full-time position at S&C Electric as a Certified Welder, starting with an hourly wage of $21.00.

To continue enhancing her skill set, Alena has taken full advantage of the weekly CWIT Advanced Skills Seminar for alumni. During her visit in October 2023, she proudly reported a raise from $22.00 to $27.00 while remaining with the same employer. Alena also enjoys giving back to the community by visiting the CWIT welding class to share encouragement, discuss her current job roles, and recount her work experiences.

In addition to her welding achievements, the supportive services team interviewed Alena and accepted her into the 2024 Millwright Pre-Apprenticeship Program in collaboration with the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council Training Center. To facilitate her transition into the Millwright profession, Alena received tools provided by CWIT. Alena commenced the training program on August 26, 2024, and completed it on September 13, 2024.

As a result of her dedication and hard work, Alena is now a first-year Millwright apprentice as of 2025.

Alex Gorski is nearing his six-month anniversary at Reliable Fire and Security and has made significant progress in his apprenticeship program. He recently completed OSHA 10 training and is set to begin NICET 1 in Fire in the coming weeks. Alex has been effectively learning his role in the Sprinkler Apprentice Program and has successfully conducted fire pump tests alongside his journeyman.

Divonte Grant's apprenticeship journey started in June 2024, when he registered for Elgin Community College's (ECC) Pre-Apprenticeship in manufacturing. A first-generation student, Divonte was eager to get a head start in his manufacturing education and was excited about the opportunities an apprenticeship would afford him. After completing the week-long pre-apprenticeship and earning his Forklift Driver certificate and OSHA-10 card, Divonte attended Interview Day, impressing employers with his preparation and professionalism. He ultimately accepted an Industrial Maintenance apprenticeship with Voestalpine High-Performance Metals.

During his enrollment, the apprenticeship team learned that Divonte would need to take some college preparatory courses before taking additional classes. Rather than let that derail his apprenticeship, staff met with Voestalpine about his course options. Through grant funds from Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO), the company did not have to pay for his college prep classes. The company allowed him to start his on-the-job training during the fall semester, providing him with a steady income and career experience. During this time, the apprenticeship team could also use DCEO funds to purchase steel-toed boots for him.

During his mid-term check-in, the apprenticeship team asked how he was doing and if there were any concerns about his progress. His professor replied, "Concerns? No. Divonte is 100% my favorite person. He came into the semester tentatively, sure that he did not belong in college and would not do well. He has discovered quite the opposite, that he is an excellent student who can grow and learn, and dare I say that he likes school. In short, he is a model student, and I see no reason to think he will not exceed all expectations."

Thanks to the support of faculty and the apprenticeship team, Divonte passed his DevEd courses, is now enrolled in his technical classes, and is well on his way toward earning an Associate Degree and continuing his employment with Voestalpine.

Cade Steichen graduated as Valedictorian of the Elgin Community College (ECC) Fire Academy Class of 2024. He is completing the on-the-job training portion of his Apprenticeship with the East Dundee Fire Protection District.

During his speech at graduation, given while proudly wearing his green Apprenticeship stole, Cade noted, "I believe in this unique career, each one of us will have a moment or a few moments such as this, and it is up to us to place ourselves in a position to be as prepared as possible and to have a relentless approach to never stop learning, training and pushing yourself to be better so when the time comes to use what you have learned, you do not fall short." He also participated in a video series highlighting apprenticeships through ECC. He noted how having his department's support and ECC's Apprenticeship Program helped him focus on his academics and training with a clear goal.

ECC's fire fighting apprenticeship is front-loaded, and Cade looks forward to training at the firehouse with his mentor and learning alongside fellow firefighters as he completes his competencies.

Tariq came to Goodwill to pursue CDL-A truck driving training. He enrolled and committed to the Accelerate program, diligently completing training to master a new trade. Despite challenges, Tariq never gave up on his dream of becoming a CDL-A truck driver. 
He finished his training in November 2024 and is working on finding the right job to use his new skills. Tariq stated that he appreciates the Accelerate staff for helping him accomplish his goals of entering a career field that will help him provide for his family. The Accelerate team is exceptionally proud of Tariq and wishes him well in his new career.

Da’sha’ela Sims joined the In-School Youth (ISY) – Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth program as a junior in high school. Eager to gain work experience, she expressed interest in participating in a Paid Work Experience while pursuing her high school diploma. Her first placement was at the Gateway Grizzlies, where Da’sha’ela developed valuable work skills and a strong work ethic. After completing her time there, she began working at Clara B’s Kitchen Table as a food server and busser. In this new work environment, she thrived and discovered a passion for culinary arts. Da’sha’ela graduated high school in May 2024, receiving her diploma. Throughout the summer, she continued her employment at Clara B’s. Additionally, Da’sha’ela took on a position at the Cahokia Public Library in the Paid Work Experience program. Her supervisors at both locations praised her performance. She worked at both jobs until her Paid Work Experience hours were fulfilled, after which she was offered a permanent position at Clara B’s, where she continues to work today. Da’sha’ela is currently exploring her options for post-secondary education. Moreover, she has become an advocate for the WIOA Youth Program, sharing information about it with her friends, coworkers, and siblings. As a result of her outreach, two active participants in the program were referred by her. Da’sha’ela has truly made a significant impact!

Over the past 10 months, the Land of Lincoln Workforce Alliance and IMEC coordinated to provide occupational, workforce, management, leadership, and DEIA training as part of LLWA’s state-funded, innovative, sector-based manufacturing project. This project responded to local manufacturers’ calls for more occupational skills training opportunities and funding.

As this was a large and multi-faceted undertaking, the project’s success relied on robust planning, careful implementation, well-developed strategies, and strong partnerships with several stakeholders and businesses. IMEC has a qualified team of industry-improvement experts who tackle demanding workforce challenges and instill best practices across all aspects of organizations. They are dedicated to providing small and mid-sized manufacturers in Illinois with the tools and techniques to excel and compete globally.

The project resulted in high-quality manufacturing training for 198 employees across six companies. The training encompassed Continuous Improvement, Quality Systems, and Workforce Development.

Additionally, IMEC subcontracted CDL training for one local manufacturer to address costs associated with product delivery. Land of Lincoln Workforce Alliance also underwent up-to-date DEIA training to ensure better positive and constructive customer interactions.

The return on these investments will not only greatly benefit these manufacturers and these employees, but they will positively impact our local workforce and economic development in many ways for years to come.

Thank you, IMEC!

Walker Petersen, age 19, now 20, graduated from high school in May 2022. After a few summers of interning with the City of Beardstown’s Sanitary District and gaining interest in water purification systems, he decided to pursue training in the field. He completed the Water Quality Control Operations program at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville. Walker consistently earned As and Bs throughout his training and participated in two internships. Before graduating, Walker secured permanent, full-time employment with the City of Beardstown’s Sanitation Department, earning $8.00 more per hour than he had as a summer worker. Walker has been in charge of online training programs and received his Class 4 Waste Water license. When asked about his experience, Walker stated that he feels very fortunate to have found what he wants to do for a living so early.

Mel-O-Cream International, a beloved Springfield, IL staple, continues to lead and enhance Local Workforce Area 20. In addition to participating in the On-the-Job Training program earlier in 2024, Mel-O-Cream demonstrated a leadership role within the local workforce by successfully engaging with a project requiring the formation of partnerships between the Land of Lincoln Workforce Alliance (LLWA) and IMEC.

This LLWA/IMEC manufacturer training project provided invaluable benefits to Mel-O-Cream. The partnership with LLWA and IMEC provided a solution to various financial and logistical challenges associated with a training program such as this, strengthening IMEC’s leadership role within our local workforce.

We are proud to have extended our Business Partnership Award to Mel-O-Cream International and the Larson family. Thank you for your efforts!

Jerry Taylor was eligible for and participated in the DWG QUEST Program. He had been unemployed for more than 10 years and faced several barriers to employment. However, Jerry was determined not to be deterred from achieving his occupational goal as a Truck Driver. Due to his persistence, hard work, and dedication, Jerry passed his exams and attained his CDL in January of 2024. He did not waste time searching for a job after completing his training. He received a few job offers within a short period and ended up settling on employment with HTH Companies. His starting pay rate is $28.00 an hour with full benefits, including life insurance, education assistance, and a 401K plan. After only 8 months on the job, he has also received a promotion and is now working as the 3rd shift supervisor, which allows him to save money for his truck, furthering his long-term goal of owning his own trucking business. In addition, Jerry hopes to mentor others about how to change their life paths for the better. Jerry also started volunteering at the Urban Justice Center.

After working as a Certified Nursing Assistant for approximately twelve years and raising two children alone, Jennifer decided it was time for her to pursue her education in the nursing field further to earn a more suitable wage to support a family of three. She also felt confident and ready to take on additional responsibilities. Jennifer enrolled in the Licensed Practical Nursing program at the Capital Area School of Practical Nursing, where she completed her training and passed her NCLEX exam. She is now a licensed practical nurse in Lincoln, and her hourly pay rate has increased by $11.00 per hour. Jennifer is also grateful for the transportation support services she received as she was required to travel approximately 80 miles round trip five days each week for training. This extra support helped her with the transportation expenses each week. Jennifer is working towards completing the admissions process for the BSN program at St. John's School of Nursing in hopes of starting this training in August of 2025.

Kiara Masters was a hardworking student at Fishes and Loaves Vocational Center who successfully pursued her goal of becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant and entering the healthcare workforce. Kiara participated in F.L.A.M.E.S., the Fishes and Loaves Academy of Motivation Empowering Students. Kiara also took on extra tutoring when needed. Kiara’s hard work culminated in her current St. John’s Hospital employment. She is studying and preparing to take her TEAS test to begin attending LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) classes in February of 2025. She credits her participation in the WIOA Program as giving her more confidence and enabling her to provide exceptional patient support and services.

Quentin Douglas was a bright participant in Capital Area Career Center’s Skilled Trades Essentials Program (STEP) for Youth. Quentin consistently demonstrated a stellar work ethic, skill mastery, and leadership abilities during his training. These qualities helped Quentin earn his EPA and OSHA certifications while enrolled in STEP. His efforts placed him at the top of the class both in the classroom setting and in the shop. One instructor said that, “Quentin was always eager to learn more. He always asked for more work and opportunities to hone his skills.” In search of those opportunities, Quentin went on to Lincoln Land Community College’s HVAC training following the Skilled Trades Essentials Program. WIOA funding allowed Quentin to expand his skills into the HVAC world, and he is now successfully employed at Allied Heating and Cooling.

In 2019, Markita came to the Land of Lincoln Workforce Alliance, completed her training at the Capital Area School of Practical Nursing, and attained her LPN license. She flourished in her work experience as an LPN, working two jobs, completing nursing prerequisites, and supporting a family of four. She returned to the workNet Center in 2023 with the ambition to further pursue her education in the nursing career pathway to increase her skills to earn a higher wage in an in-demand occupation to help support her family and enrolled in the nursing degree program at Illinois Central College. Despite being a single parent of three teenagers, working, and traveling over 140 miles round trip each day to and from training, Markita persevered, maintaining her grades and clinical requirements. She attained her Healthcare Professional to RN Associates Degree in Applied Science in May 2024. She passed the NCLEX exam on her first attempt, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, and attained her Registered Professional Nurse License. She is now employed with Vonderlieth Living Center as a Registered Nurse, earning $40.00 per hour. Markita is grateful for all of the assistance, support, and opportunities she has received from the WIOA program to help her achieve her professional goal of becoming a nurse so that she can be an inspiration to her children.

Danielle Dennis was once unable to obtain employment, which led to self-sufficiency or higher wages through career services alone. She was underemployed, averaging 20-22 hours per week as a cashier, earning $17.00 per hour. In the 24 months before her training, her previous part-time employment with Orpheum Theatre ended more than once due to COVID-19. Danielle had been struggling financially, so she enrolled in the Dental Hygiene program at Lake Land College to increase her skills to earn a higher wage in an in-demand occupation and better support herself. Danielle wanted to be a dental hygienist because she had always “loved going to the dentist and talking to them about teeth.” She wants to be able to help people feel confident in their smiles. Danielle’s daily commute was 118.8 miles round trip between her home in Taylorville and Lake Land College in Mattoon, Illinois. Lake Land is the only Dental Hygiene program in the region. She was very grateful for the transportation assistance she received. Without it, she could not have carried the burden of high gas prices. Danielle’s perseverance, dedication, and many journeys to Lake Land’s campus finally paid off. She graduated with her degree on May 6th, 2024, and became a licensed Dental Hygienist on May 28th, 2024. She immediately secured training-related employment with 21st Century Dental during this period, earning $40.29 per hour.

On November 20, 2024, during National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), Heartland Community College hosted a memorable apprenticeship signing event in the Community Commons Building. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for 26 new apprentices and six employer partners in the Manufacturing, Healthcare, and IT industries.

The event opened with a powerful speech from Heartland Community College's President Keith Cornille, who highlighted the transformative role of apprenticeships in workforce development and community growth:

"Apprenticeships offer a direct pipeline for employers to strengthen their workforce with tailored, high-quality talent. Community colleges such as Heartland are uniquely suited to feed this pipeline. Since 2019, Heartland has added over 40 certificates or degrees focused on filling the needs of a growing industry, the expanding healthcare workforce, and the gaps that retiring trade specialists are creating. Our industry partners support their employees in apprenticeship programs because they know it is a sound investment in the most valuable asset: quality employees. We are fortunate to have several great employers who understand that value. Our student apprentices have been impressive and should be commended for their hard work on this educational journey. Their efforts to seize this opportunity, to develop new training and skills, and their commitment to professional development are the characteristics that employers are always seeking.”

Jake Banks, a proud graduate of Heartland’s Tool and Die Maker apprenticeship program shared his journey and the importance of perseverance in the trades:

“It’s hot. It’s dirty. You’re working. You’re sweating. It sucks. Not ‘gonna lie to you. But the rewards are endless through perseverance, determination, and dedication to the craft.”

Chris Hardy, Maintenance Manager at Bridgestone, one of Heartland’s employer partners, highlighted the success of their apprenticeship program, which has evolved from a six-year model to an efficient three-year program. Hardy credited the partnership with Heartland for this streamlined, impactful approach.

The event also symbolized a new chapter for the 26 apprentices who will continue to “earn while they learn,” gaining hands-on experience in their respective industries while progressing toward graduation in the coming years. Community interest in the event was strong, with WGLT, a local radio station, attending to spotlight the apprentices and their employer partners. Heartland Community College’s apprenticeship program exemplifies the power of collaboration in workforce development. By offering tailored education and fostering partnerships with local employers, the program is building a skilled and prepared workforce to meet the challenges of today’s industries.

Apprenticeship opportunities are unique because they allow individuals to grow their skills from the ground up while earning a living wage and having their education paid for, all while folding in support services to ensure success. In short, apprenticeship opportunities can change lives. Ayman Faruqi is no stranger to the life-changing benefits of apprenticeship.

Faruqi has worked as a Software Development apprentice with Northwestern Medicine for the past year through the Project Hire-Ed apprenticeship program at the College of DuPage. Being an apprentice has allowed him to apply the skills he is learning in the classroom to real-life applications. “My technical skills, compared to what they were a year ago, have seen exponential growth. I am in a position where I take care of some projects on my own and provide any contribution to my team.” He is also proud that his work “could somehow bring about a change in someone’s life.”

Sometimes, apprentices begin their program with certain expectations, such as learning new skills and gaining hands-on experience. But for Faruqi, he was surprised by all the things he didn’t anticipate! “I guess if there were one word that I would want to summarize my (apprenticeship) experience so far, it would be “new.” Yes, that may seem like a fundamental word, but it holds a lot of depth. I started knowing very little about my current role as an apprentice and did not even know what an apprenticeship was. It was something that I would not have expected to turn my life around, and I mean this in the most realistic way possible. This opportunity gave me a new perspective into the professional world, a view I think no other opportunity would have.”

The apprenticeship with Northwestern Medicine has introduced Faruqi to new technologies and work with highly skilled professionals with years of industry-leading expertise. “Having the privilege to work with them every day in a capacity to directly bring about some sort of difference in someone’s life, I think I would put this as a blessing in disguise.”

While Faruqi believes one of the best things about being an apprentice is the balance between school and work, wherein neither overpowers the other, he also encourages other apprentices to jump right in and immerse themselves in everything! “Just do it!  It sounds cliche, but it is what worked for me. Learn anything you can get your hands on, ask questions, do your homework on time, be helpful and approachable, and know how to conduct yourself.”

Rhonda, a single mother, and her 16-year-old daughter recently moved to a rural area of Hardin County. She was barely making ends meet with her work hours, which placed her in a difficult financial situation. While she aspired to be a full-time worker, she was staying with someone in the hope of finding a permanent home for herself and her daughter. Rhonda started working at Shawnee Development Council in August 2024, having learned about the opportunity from the colleague she would soon be working with. She completed the Work Experience program in October 2024 and transitioned to the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Department. She has applied for the county coordinator position for Hardin and Pope County.

Since joining, she has been a tremendous asset to the Shawnee Development Council, playing a key role in organizing the food pantry and assisting with the outreach office's relocation logistics. "This program helped me become financially stable and support my daughter and me during tough economic times," Rhonda stated. She has truly thrived and grown within the company. She expressed her intent to share her positive experience with others, saying that she would encourage the next participant to consider the WIOA Program at Shawnee Development, highlighting how caring the staff is and how they go the extra mile to assist individuals. "Not only do they help someone find employment, but they also provide coaching and counseling. They refer participants to resources when they don’t have the answers or cannot assist at that moment," Rhonda explained. During her work experience job placement, Rhonda assisted the county coordinator with various tasks. "I still get to do what I love most: serving my community. I interact with the participants who live in the county, and they bring me so much joy," she said.

Jonothan came to The Workforce Connection in Illinois upon learning that he qualified for the TAA Program after being dislocated from his employment at Chrysler.  Jonothan explains that his prior experience in the automotive industry spurred in him a desire to explore the aviation industry.  After researching information on the aviation industry, Jonothan concluded that he wanted to enroll in aviation maintenance training at Rock Valley College.  Jonothan explains that he had a great experience training at Rock Valley College, and their aviation maintenance program is amazing.  He continues to explain that there were many difficult challenges during the program, but he felt he always had the support he needed to overcome these challenges.  Jonothan graduated on July 17^th 2024 with 3 Aviation Maintenance Certificates earned.  He went on to acquire a full-time job as an A&P Mechanic with SkyWest Airlines.  When asked how he feels about his new employment, Jonothan reported that he loves his new job and is very grateful for all the assistance he received during his participation in the TAA Program.  Jonothan stated that he even had job offers prior to graduating.  Jonothan states that he is going to keep learning what he can and hopes to advance to higher roles.  Jonothan would recommend this program and others like it to anyone interested, including getting into the aviation industry like he did.

Michael came to The Workforce Connection in Illinois after learning that he qualified for the TAA Program.  Michael explained that at this time he felt lost and didn’t know what his future would hold for him after being dislocated from his employment at Chrysler in January of 2022.  Despite his weariness about the future, Michael approached his decision to apply for training with resolve and worked with his Career Planner to enroll at Rasmussen University for their Informational Technology AAS program.  Although Michael had no experience in IT, he had always been interested in this field and saw an opportunity to explore an always evolving occupational area.  Despite the challenges navigating his schoolwork and life balance, Michael enjoyed his training very much.  Michael explained that he was always very grateful for the assistance of his university representatives and his Career Planner.  Michael graduated with an Associate of Applied Science in Informational Technology on February 6^th of 2024.  He went on to acquire a full-time job as a Technical Operations Specialist with PCI Pharma Services.  When asked how he feels about his new employment, Michael reported that his new role at PCI is great.  He explained that he can combine his previous manufacturing experience with the new technical skills he learned during his IT training.  He is also grateful to have room to grow and advance to higher roles.  Michael would encourage anyone looking for a new career to take advantage of this program and others like it.

Elgin Community College (ECC) set out to design a Pre-Apprenticeship program that would benefit the community it serves - individuals seeking training that leads to employment in a shorter timeframe than traditional career training and education.

ECC's Pre-Apprenticeships core elements contain:

• Short-term - cohorts last only 7-days
• Industry-recognized credentials like OSHA-10, Forklift Driver, BLS CPR, Mental Health First Aid, and more
• Career exploration for a better understanding of long-term pathways, including employability or soft skills for the workplace
• Resume and interview skills workshops
• Opportunity to interview with local employers for open apprenticeships in a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) supported by ECC.

Since later 2023, ECC has offered eight Pre-Apprenticeship programs serving more than 75 individuals seeking careers in manufacturing or health care. The Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship prepares individuals for industrial maintenance, CNC machining, or HVAC apprenticeships, while the Health Care Pre-Apprenticeship offers a pathway to a Certified Nurse Assistant apprenticeship. Fifteen employers have partnered on the pre-apprenticeship, conducting on-site interviews with candidates and recruiting new apprentices from the pre-apprenticeship pool.

ECC's pre-apprenticeship model offers a path to industry-recognized credentials and the opportunity to interview for available apprenticeships. The shorter timeframe is a manageable commitment for most people; the credentials are obtainable within that timeframe, and the skills provide an excellent foundation for additional training or education.

Pictured are students from a summer Health Care Pre-Apprenticeship specifically for high school students interested in this career path.

Marisol Villanueva has always been interested in helping others. When she was little, she dreamt about a job where she could help others or animals. This led her to explore the healthcare career field after high school when she became a caregiver in home health and worked for one year. She learned about the Pre-Apprenticeship Healthcare Program at Elgin Community College (ECC), where she could earn her First Aid, CPR, BLS, and Mental Health First Aid certifications for free and begin to build her resume.

She completed her pre-apprenticeship in May 2024. ECC’s program includes interviews with local employers, and Marisol was offered a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Apprenticeship with Aperion Care Elgin, a long-term care and rehabilitation center. She became Aperion’s first CNA Apprentice—the facility now hosts three additional apprentices. Once she was hired into the apprenticeship, she began her CNA training, earning her Certified Nursing Assistant certificate and passing the state exam in June 2024.

Marisol began her on-the-job training (OJT) with Aperion in July 2024 and is enjoying her experience working with older patients and hearing their stories. Now, she feels like she is “really” working in healthcare.

“This apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to start working in my dream field while still growing and developing my skills,” she said. In addition to her OJT, Marisol is taking Phlebotomy courses at ECC to add to her skill set. Once she completes her apprenticeship, she plans to continue working as a CNA with Aperion while applying to ECC’s Nursing Program, as her long-term goal is to become a Registered Nurse.

After four years of hard work, Alex Torres completed his Associate in Applied Science degree at Elgin Community College (ECC) this summer and received his Journeyman Certificate for completing his RAP.

Alex Torres started as a materials handler with Hoffer Plastics in 2020. After seeing his abilities and drive, he was promoted to Mold Setup Technician after just a few months. Hoffer Plastics is a big proponent of upskilling its incumbent workers and has been involved with apprenticeships for many years. Over the next two years, Alex took Industrial Systems Technology classes at ECC to further his skills and knowledge of machines. Due in part to his initiative, in 2022, Alex applied and was accepted into Hoffer's Automation Technician Apprenticeship. Alex continued to excel both in the classroom and on the job, earning wage increases as he became more proficient in industrial maintenance.

ECC serves as the sponsor and RTI for Hoffer Plastics' Automation Apprenticeships; the company currently has two registered apprentices besides Alex. The photo shows Hoffer Plastic's leadership celebrating Alex's achievement. Alex and Hoffer Plastics have also been nominated for Apprenticeship Illinois' Ambassador Program for 2025!

Just before Thanksgiving in 2021, Timothy Sides loaded all his belongings into a backpack, set his mind to “start from scratch,” and began a search for the tools necessary to change his trajectory. Fortunately, his next step was the right one: finding out about and choosing A Safe Haven.

Timothy knew he needed assistance in many areas, so he reached out to the premier organization specializing in the type of help that would address all of them. Throughout his stay at A Safe Haven, he found the counselors, training, and employment that brought him to where he wanted to be, living the life he wanted to lead.

Timothy participated in recovery sessions, work readiness training, industry-specific training, and obtained assistance from A Safe Haven’s in-house employment center. He was impressed with the variety of resources available to him. Timothy passed up a couple of employment opportunities before choosing to join our landscaping social enterprise. After his first week of working, he signed a lease for his first apartment. He resided at A Safe Haven for a bit longer to save up for a car, which he filled with all his newly-acquired belongings when he finally moved into his apartment.

Still employed within the landscaping industry, Timothy has moved through the ranks from Trainee to Groundskeeper, temporary Driver, and interim Supervisor. Timothy is overjoyed with his new career and is grateful to A Safe Haven for getting him to where he is now; he is going places!

Isaac Jester entered the Wabash Area Development, Inc. office in the fall of 2022 to enroll in the Career Education program. He sought assistance for the Welding Program offered at Southeastern Illinois College. Isaac applied to the Welding Program at Southeastern Illinois College and was accepted. He successfully completed the 2-year program with all A's and B's in his classes. Isaac received his certificate in the spring of 2024. Shortly after graduation, he started working as a professional welder with BWXT in Mt. Vernon, Indiana. Isaac is grateful for the program's support in paying for his tuition, books, and transportation to his classes.

While the College of DuPage (COD) is a Registered Apprenticeship Program Sponsor and Intermediary, the institution partners with area employers with their own Registered Apprentice Programs (RAP). These companies who manage their own RAP can enhance their programs by partnering with the College of DuPage and the Project Hire-Ed team.

Project Hire-Ed serves as a conduit between education and employers by providing access and tools to employers and work-based learning experiences to students. Companies seeking to upskill their workforce will find support and guidance from the Project Hire-Ed team on course selection, registration, billing paperwork, and case-managed wrap-around services for their apprentice during the program.

One partner who has experienced the benefits of working with the College of DuPage for Related Technical Instruction for their company, RAP, is Nestlé.

In the dynamic manufacturing landscape, where technology continually advances and consumer demands evolve, Nestlé recognizes the imperative of cultivating highly skilled talent. Their commitment extends beyond operational excellence to positively impacting every market we serve. Through their apprenticeship program, they offer valuable career pathways to individuals who might otherwise lack such opportunities. This initiative empowers their workforce with cutting-edge skills and enhances productivity across their facilities, ensuring that Nestlé remains at the forefront of innovation and efficiency.

Nestlé has been partnering with Project Hire-Ed for over a year, sending their first apprentices in the fall semester of 2023. The company sent an additional apprentice the following semester and just started a fourth apprentice for the fall semester of 2024. These four apprentices are taking Related Technical Instruction courses at the College of DuPage, working toward certificates in Electronics Technology, Advanced Mechatronics, and Stationary Operator. The Project Hire-Ed staff worked closely with college faculty and Nestlé to help the company review course offerings and develop customer curriculum that best meets their training needs. According to Fulgencio Rico, a Training Supervisor at Nestlé, “One of the factors contributing to the success of our program is our collaboration with the Project Hire-Ed/the College of DuPage team. Their exceptional customer service during the school enrollment process and ongoing support for our apprentices is invaluable.”

When asked why employers with their RAP should consider College of DuPage for their Related Technical Instruction provider, Fulgencio said, “I believe that the wide range of programs and flexible learning options, including both online and classroom courses, provided by Project Hire-Ed / College of DuPage contribute to achieving a work-life balance for our apprentices. The expertise of the instructors and the comprehensive curriculum they offer have played a crucial role in the success of our apprentices.”

From a comprehensive program standpoint, Nestlé has observed significantly higher retention rates among apprentices than non-apprentices. Additionally, they have established a robust pipeline to address the gaps created by their eventual retirees.

Nestlé’s apprenticeship program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while earning a wage. Apprentices receive practical training, mentorship from highly skilled employees, and a direct path to career advancement with the world’s largest food and beverage company. By developing in-demand skills, these apprenticeships make individuals highly employable and set for long-term success with Nestlé.

Kaliah Oparah, a member of the Class of 2025, has been an exceptional addition to our team at Restoration Ministries’ Summer Day Camp. Working primarily in our kindergarten classroom, Kaliah has brought a joyful and enthusiastic attitude to her role daily, significantly enhancing the experience for the children and staff.

Kaliah’s passion for working with young children and her gentle demeanor make her an ideal fit for the kindergarten setting. Each day, she arrives well-prepared and organized, ensuring her students are always orderly and on time for each session. Her professionalism and adherence to Restoration Ministries’ policies showcase her reliability and dedication.

Beyond her classroom management skills, Kaliah seamlessly collaborates with her co-workers. She’s always willing to assist in other classrooms when needed, exemplifying flexibility and a strong team spirit. Her willingness to go above and beyond for her peers and students speaks volumes about her character.

Kaliah’s exceptional work ethic and positive contributions have made a lasting impact on our summer camp program. We are excited to share that, due to her remarkable performance and because our budget permits, we have hired Kaliah to continue working with us throughout the school year. She has proven to be an invaluable team member, and we are thrilled to have her with us long-term.

Her dedication and the energy she brings to our camp are deeply appreciated. Kaliah sets a wonderful example for her peers and enriches the overall experience for the children in our care. We look forward to her continued contributions during the school year.

Probst Auto Body is an automotive body repair facility in Dieterich, IL. Safety and quality have become a foundational element at Probst Auto Body. Concentrating on quality training and testing guarantees that body repair technicians understand the precise ways to repair automobiles. As vehicle technology and the materials used for manufacturing cars continue to evolve rapidly, it has never been more important for automotive repair facilities to focus on developing their people’s appropriate knowledge, skills, and performance to their foothold as an industry champion. Betag Innovations offers the training to keep up with the modern advances in repair and an increased focus on repair vs replacement. Probst Auto Body will remain a leader in the automotive repair industry. Betag is the only training provider to offer a multi-phased training/skills pathway program that transitions Journeyman technicians to Master Technicians.

The emphasis behind Structural Repair Specialist (SRS) training ensures that employees become equipped with the newest and most advanced procedures for repairing damaged vehicles by Manufacturers’ Required Procedures. Through this training, they developed the necessary skills to be more efficient in the work environment. A well-rounded knowledge base ensures that structural repairs match OEM standards. By enhancing Probst Auto Body’s workforce’s efficiency in automotive structural repair, they anticipate significant improvements in efficiency, capacity, and vehicle repair, leading to improved experiences for valued customers and employees. Quality training also helps to reduce the number of re-works.

Farmweld is a small company located in Teutopols with 30 employees. The Shot Blaster was a brand new piece of equipment for the company, and the training provided by Viking Corporation allowed the employees to understand how the machine works, how to operate the machine, what maintenance is required, troubleshooting techniques, and preventative maintenance measures. The piece of equipment would've been useless to the company without this critical training provided by Viking. After the training, employees can use and repair the equipment, saving the company money and time, enhancing their employability, increasing job security, and keeping the company competitive in the global market.

This summer, I worked as a caddy at the local golf course. It wasn’t just a job but an opportunity to immerse myself in the game I loved but had struggled to break into. For years, I had tried out for the varsity golf team, facing rejection after rejection. Each time, I was told I wasn’t quite ready. But I wasn’t willing to give up.

As a caddy, I was surrounded by the sport daily. I learned the nuances of the game, observed skilled golfers, and understood the strategic aspects that I had previously overlooked. I practiced relentlessly during my off hours, applying the techniques and insights I gained from watching and interacting with experienced players.

My hard work paid off. I was prepared when tryouts for the varsity team came around this year. With newfound confidence and a deeper understanding of the game, I gave it my all. This time, the coaches saw the improvement in my skills and my dedication. I made the team.

This journey taught me that perseverance and a willingness to learn and adapt are crucial to success. What started as a summer job became a pivotal experience that helped me achieve my goal.

In Spring 2024, two cohorts of apprentices from Rivian Automotive graduated with Associate of Applied Science degrees and job-specific certifications from Heartland Community College. Graduates included Jacob Banks, Bryce Backlund, Alex Becker, Ashton Joshlin, Kyle Kamp, Tyler Parrish, and Jessica Wernsman.

Industrial maintenance apprentices earned certifications or micro-certificates in high-voltage battery technology, robotics operation, electronics skills, automation technology, and industrial technology as part of their degree pathway. Tool and die apprentices completed work for certifications in manual machining, CNC machining, machine tool technology, design and fabrication skills, and industrial technology as part of their degree pathway.

Veronica Inselmann, Associate Director of Apprenticeships at Heartland, explains that an apprenticeship program aims to equip workers with advanced skills tailored to the specific needs of employers. The partnership between Heartland and Rivian proves this goal is achievable. The Rivian graduates secured a degree while also meeting the complex needs of their employer, which is a huge success for the graduates and Rivian.

With a new cohort of apprentices beginning in Fall 2024, Heartland and Rivian continue their partnership and commitment to equipping apprentices with advanced, job-specific skills.

Paula Winterfeld’s life began a metamorphosis over two years ago when she gave up drinking and willingly entered a long-term women’s life recovery program at the Rockford Rescue Mission. Her journey in rebuilding her faith and sobriety included a lifelong love of technology, a goal she was determined to pursue upon successful completion of the recovery program.

YW Tech Lab helped Paula take the necessary steps to jumpstart that dream, offering her free training, a promise of a paid internship, and help with job placement. The first step involved leading Paula through a series of classes in Front-End Web Development, Google IT Support, and finally, CompTIA A+.
Nobody told her it was going to be easy.

Every Monday through Friday for the past seven months, Paula would get on the bus at 7:30 am and ride across town to YWCA Northwestern Illinois, walking the last few blocks, come sun, rain, or snow. Inside, she opened the provided laptop to receive in-person instruction in tech and the soft skills needed for a professional position. Weekly stipends rewarded her diligent attendance and helped her save to get her license back and to plan for the eventual move back home. Paula was an avid student, eagerly participating in discussions and class assignments.

After a full day, Paula would return to the Mission and attend the required weekly meetings. She often served in the Mission kitchen to give back to the organization that helped her find a new life. Paula was also trying to rebuild bridges with her two children and start preparing for life on her own again.
Due to her diligence in studying, Paula could pass most of her certification exams the first time she took them, but CompTIA A+, a “fast-track” class, was another story. The two required timed exams needed for certification were challenging, but Paula was a woman of faith. She believed God would do the rest if she did the hard work and did her best. On June 25, she nailed her last test and earned the coveted certification, an accomplishment she says makes her “very proud.”

Paula then interviewed for and received a paid internship with Rockford Public School District 205. All those soft skills lessons and help with her resume and interviewing skills paid off.

Paula learned software support for the next four weeks, sitting on a help desk and processing laptops. Her work was exemplary, and her supervisor called her “a breath of fresh air.” She was then extended an offer for full-time employment.

“The programs and opportunities the YWCA offers are essential to one’s life,” Paula said. “The selfless guidance and wisdom have inspired me to be diligent, determined, and mindful of the abilities I have in me and use them for the greater good to be the best that I can be and spread inspiration to others who walk the same journey as me.”

Nobody told her it would be easy, but Paula said, “This is not the end. It’s only the beginning of greater blessings to come.”

Amanda Spicer is a Medical Assistant Apprentice at Shawnee Medical Clinic in Carbondale, IL.

• How did you hear about Man-Tra-Con’s Registered Apprenticeship Program through Shawnee Health?
  • I first heard about this program through a peer I worked with in a local hospital, and I decided to reach out to a friend I knew who did it. She highly suggested that I apply for it.
• Why did you choose to become a Medical Assistant?
  • At the time, I was working at a local hospital in our Labor and Delivery unit. Watching my nurse friends work with such passion sparked an interest that I knew right then and there: I wanted to be on the floor working hands-on with patients instead of being stuck at a desk.
• Did you have any background in this industry before the apprenticeship?
  • For most of my career, I was in the accounting industry; I also worked as an insurance agent for 10+ years. I took a risk and am so happy with my career change.
• What does a typical day in your apprenticeship look like?
  • I currently work in a family practice office, where I see various cases daily. Every day is different, from making sure our pediatric patients receive the care they need with vaccinations and making “boo-boos” feel better to helping a peer fight drug addiction, making sure the community of patients is aware of ways they can prevent certain illnesses and maintain their health and well-being, and everything in between. There is no getting bored of day-to-day work in this profession.
• How has the apprenticeship been beneficial?
  • We have four children, and the thought of returning to school, let alone paying for it, sounded terrifying. This apprenticeship program took a lot of that fear away because I could complete my homework and study throughout the day or even in the middle of the night if that’s what my schedule needed. I was able to go through schooling and work at the same time, all while having my education paid for. This program has benefited my family so much financially since graduating. Not to mention, I’ve earned such a rewarding career. Since getting my feet wet in the field and gaining confidence in going back to school, I have now decided to even further my career in nursing. I am now returning to school, which will benefit my family and me even more! I have this program to thank for mentally giving me the strength and confidence to keep going!
• What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
  • Do it. If you’re willing to put in the work, it’s completely worth it in the end! This career has been so rewarding for me, as I get to help the community better their health and even be a listening ear for them sometimes.

Local unions have seen an increase in applications from individuals interested in careers in the building and construction trades, and a partnership between Vermilion County Works (VCW) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers is helping keep that trend alive and well. With assistance from the Apprenticeship Illinois grant program, the local union has been more successful in recruiting and retaining apprentices during its five-year apprenticeship program. This past July, the union announced the enrollment of its largest apprenticeship class since its partnership with VCW began in 2017.

Union officials report that the demand for apprentices is exceptionally high, and with experienced journeymen retiring, the need to fill those positions will continue for the foreseeable future. Programs such as these have made it easier for apprentices to stay in training through assistance with tools, equipment, and learning materials that tackle some of the barriers that young apprentices face, particularly early on in the program. As apprentices progress through the program, wage increases through completing benchmarks lead to well-paying jobs that average over $40 per hour at the journeyman level.

A Journey of Firsts and Foresight

In the landscape of modern apprenticeships, stories like Brenda Guerrero's shine bright, offering a blend of inspiration, determination, and forward-thinking. A first-generation student, Brenda has embarked on a journey about personal growth and setting a precedent in her family. Her story is a powerful testament to the potential of apprenticeships in shaping futures, especially for those eager to explore unconventional paths.

Early Sparks: From High School Class to Apprenticeship

Brenda's interest in CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining ignited during a high school metals class. A casual conversation with her teacher about her fascination with CNC led to a pivotal moment: a company tour arranged by her teacher. This opportunity blossomed into an apprenticeship offer, which Brenda embraced, driven by her curiosity and desire to delve deeper into machining.

Choosing CNC: A Blend of Interest and Intuition

Brenda's decision to enter the CNC apprenticeship stemmed from her foundational knowledge of metals and an inherent interest in the field. She likes learning CNC programming and acquiring a new language – a challenge she accepted enthusiastically. Her choice reflects a keen understanding of her strengths and a clear career path vision.

The Apprenticeship Experience: Opening Doors, Building Skills

Funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Apprenticeship Expansion Grant, Brenda's apprenticeship journey has been a gateway to numerous opportunities. It allowed her to gain hands-on experience, attend classes, and avoid the burden of debt – a significant advantage for young apprentices. This practical approach to education, combined with financial support, has empowered Brenda to focus on her growth and skill acquisition.

Influences and Inspirations: Mentors and Scholarships

Brenda credits her high school machine shop teacher as a critical success factor. Her teacher's guidance in entering the trade and securing scholarships, such as the Gene Haas and Women in TMA scholarships, has been instrumental. These scholarships provided financial aid and essential tools, further facilitating Brenda's journey.

The Transformative Impact: Skills and Perspectives

Engaging in the CNC program has broadened Brenda's perspective, enhancing her critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The program's hands-on nature has fostered a deep understanding of the trade, making her education practical and profound.

Career Aspirations: From CNC Mill to Design

Currently, Brenda works at a CNC mill, mastering programming and setups. Her ambition doesn't stop at CNC machining; she plans to complete her schooling, obtain her journeyman certificate, and venture into design classes. Her goal is to learn and master as much as possible, reflecting her drive to evolve and expand her expertise continually.

Looking Ahead: A Future in Engineering

Beyond her immediate career goals, Brenda is interested in engineering. This field offers potential career paths and fulfills her desire to contribute meaningfully to society. Her apprenticeship in CNC machining is a foundational step toward this long-term aspiration.

A Trailblazer in the Manufacturing Landscape

Julie Snyder's journey in the manufacturing sector is a narrative of resilience, innovation, and leadership. Her career, spanning nearly a decade at Principal Manufacturing Corporation, exemplifies the evolution of women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Starting in accounting and rising to the position of HR Manager, Julie's story is an inspiration, particularly for women aspiring to carve a niche in manufacturing.

Breaking Barriers: A Woman in Manufacturing

Julie's early days in manufacturing were marked by the challenge of being one of the few women in the field. Her resilience is evident in navigating this landscape, focusing on her skills, understanding her job, and recognizing the value she brought to the table. Her advice to women is empowering: "Go for what your heart says, and don't let anybody intimidate you." This mantra has guided her career and is a beacon for other women embarking on similar paths.

Principal Manufacturing Corporation: Engineering Solutions for the Automotive Industry

Under Julie's HR leadership, Principal Manufacturing Corporation, a company specializing in engineering solutions for the automotive industry, has witnessed significant growth and innovation. The company's expertise in tool and die, CNC machining, and mechanical maintenance is a testament to its commitment to quality and excellence in manufacturing.

Responding to Industry Challenges through Apprenticeships

Confronted with the difficulty of finding skilled workers and an aging workforce, Principal Manufacturing implemented apprenticeship programs as a strategic response. Over eight years, these programs have evolved, covering tool and die, CNC machining, and mechanical maintenance. The success of these apprenticeships is reflected in the company's low turnover rate and the ability to mentor and retain talent within the organization.

Julie's Role in Fostering Future Talent

Julie's proactive engagement with local high schools and junior colleges has been pivotal in sourcing apprentices for Principal Manufacturing. Her efforts have culminated in a thriving apprenticeship program with 12 active apprentices, including two in machine maintenance, one in CNC, and nine in the tool and die program. Four apprentices have just completed their program and have transitioned to journeyman status, which underlines the program's effectiveness.

Partnership with the Department of Labor

Recognizing the value of formal recognition, Julie guided Principal Manufacturing in registering their program with the Department of Labor. This partnership ensures that apprentices receive certificates recognized globally, affirming the quality and rigor of their training. Apprentices who complete their three or five-year commitment with Principal Manufacturing emerge with credentials that bolster their career prospects anywhere in the world.

Impact and Future Aspirations

Julie's influence at Principal Manufacturing extends beyond her role as HR Manager. She has been instrumental in shaping a culture that values continuous learning and skill development. Her vision for the future includes expanding the apprenticeship programs, further integrating them into the company's growth strategy, and continuing to break barriers in the manufacturing industry.

In the Spring of 2024, the Business Employment Skills Team (BEST, Inc.) worked with Sterling Schools and BloomBoard, Inc., to develop a training strategy to address an ongoing shortage of certified teachers in rural Illinois. As a U.S. Department of Labor-recognized Registered Apprenticeship intermediary, BloomBoard, Inc., created the first turnkey pipeline strategy for school districts in the U.S.

The Apprenticeship Specialist at BEST, Inc., was approached to provide technical assistance regarding specific requirements for Registered Apprenticeship standards in Illinois, including Safety Training and Non-Sexual Harassment Training. The final set of apprenticeship standards was signed in May 2024.

Sterling Schools signed onto the BloomBoard standards as a participating employer to increase its pipeline of certified elementary education teachers. Training will begin in Fall 2024.

The Business Employment Skills Team (BEST, Inc.) worked with JoCarroll Energy and Wolf Line Construction to establish broadband technician standards in response to the lack of fully trained technicians in the northern portion of the workforce area.

BEST, Inc. also assisted two Career, Technical, and Education (CTE) institutions with career exploration materials. The Whiteside Area Career Center (WACC) received virtual reality goggles; both WACC and the CTE Academy in Hanover received career exploration virtual experiences to bring much-needed career and training information to the emerging workforce!

The partnerships with JoCarroll Energy, Wolf Line Construction, Whiteside Area Career Center, and the CTE Academy were an effort to retain local emerging talent and to make them aware of the skills needed for higher-paying opportunities available in broadband infrastructure installation.

To support JoCarroll Energy’s training needs, BEST, Inc. established a training lab and provided training funds for instructors at Morrison Institute of Technology to train JoCarroll apprentices. The Train-the-Trainer instruction was completed in June 2024, and apprentices will begin their instruction in the fall.

Alyssa, married and financially co-supporting a family of 10, worked full-time but desired to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). The nursing assistant program she wanted to take did not qualify for financial aid, so she contacted Livingston Workforce Services requesting tuition support. She had been receiving SNAP benefits and could receive assistance through the WIOA grant. Alyssa enrolled in the nursing assistant program, and to help support her during training, she also received assistance with supplies needed for class and gas reimbursement for her travel to classes and clinics. Within days of completing training, Alyssa passed her CNA exam. Weeks following, she was hired at a local nursing home and began earning a wage higher than she had when coming into the Livingston Workforce Services office six months prior. Not only did Alyssa meet her short-term career goal as a CNA, but she also opened the door to advance into another Healthcare career.

Franchesca's journey is a powerful testament to resilience and determination, shaped by her dual role as an advocate—for her daughter and herself. Connected with Youth Job Center (YJC) through Chicago Community Learning Center (CCLC) in late 2022, she navigated a path marked by challenges and significant achievements. Excelling in her coursework, Franchesca encountered formidable obstacles with testing anxiety during state exams, prompting her to seek support from YJC. They empowered her to advocate for herself, guiding her through professional evaluations and tailored tutoring sessions to address her challenges head-on.
With unwavering perseverance, Franchesca attained certifications as an EKG technician, Phlebotomy technician, and PCT, all made possible by the steadfast support of YJC tutors and career advisors. Balancing her responsibilities as a devoted mother advocating for her disabled child, she also found herself advocating for her own needs, including seeking medical advice for her testing anxiety—a crucial step supported by YJC. This dual role as caregiver and advocate underscored her determination to succeed in her career and overcome personal challenges, enriching her journey toward becoming a registered nurse.
Today, Franchesca thrives as a dedicated Phlebotomist, delivering compassionate care in the healthcare field while juggling the demands of motherhood, medical appointments, and a demanding schedule. Her commitment to attending tutoring sessions underscored her unwavering determination to succeed, both for herself and for her daughter.
Franchesca's story celebrates her professional achievements and personal growth and highlights her resilience in advocating for those she loves and for herself. Motivated by her daughter's health challenges, she embarked on this transformative journey with a profound desire to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. Her ongoing pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, initiated in July 2023, reflects her enduring passion for patient care and continuous learning.
Franchesca's journey serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and advocacy. It illustrates how her dedication to her family and her career path propels her toward achieving her dream of becoming a registered nurse and positively influencing the healthcare community.

Bianca Somuah, a 24-year-old working mother, was drawn to the YJC program because of its extensive resources and connections. Enrolled in the healthcare program, Bianca's long-term goal is to become a NICU nurse. The YJC program is assisting her in reaching these goals by connecting her with health professionals and helping her explore various career opportunities in the healthcare field.
Bianca has benefited significantly from her financial coach, Trevor, who has guided her on saving, building credit, and managing credit card utilization. He also helped her open a savings account. Bianca learned from the workforce readiness training the importance of maintaining professional boundaries by not sharing excessive personal information with employers.
Her advice to other YJC clients is to make full use of the program and communicate openly with advisors, who are there to help. Reflecting on her experience, she wishes she had been more open with her advisor.
Bianca particularly values the lessons on credit and savings, which have improved her financial discipline. Her career coach, Sara Algawerash, has been very understanding of Bianca's busy schedule, offering patience and support as Bianca juggles her responsibilities as a mother.
Bianca currently works as both a doula and a CNA, providing essential support to mothers and families throughout childbirth. With the support of JTED funding, Bianca is one step closer to her goal of becoming a NICU nurse. This funding covered her CNA program expenses, allowing her to obtain this certification. It also facilitated a paid work experience at Walgreens, and she is now actively seeking hospital experience through job referrals to further progress toward her goal.
Throughout her training program, Bianca received consistent support, including assistance with essentials such as scrubs, uniforms, and bus passes, which ensured that logistical barriers did not hinder her progress.
Moreover, Bianca has secured additional funding through WIOA, enabling her to pursue post-secondary education in an RN program. With these opportunities on the horizon, Bianca has shown dedication and determination in pursuing her career ambitions.

Aleecia's journey to success is a testament to her dedication and the invaluable support from tutoring and career programs. Born and raised in Chicago, Aleecia is the oldest of four siblings and a proud graduate of Crete-Monee High School.
Determined to overcome academic challenges, Aleecia utilized tutoring services that helped her excel in her classes. This foundational support was pivotal in her pursuit of a healthcare career. Eager to avoid her struggles, Aleecia proactively sought certifications to enhance her qualifications. Through JTED funding, Aleecia could get her tuition paid for and utilize paid work experience. Additionally, she received supportive services like a monthly bus card, which greatly facilitated her commute and overall progress.
In October 2023, Aleecia's hard work paid off when she started an internship at Walgreens through her PWE program. Her dedication and skills quickly impressed her employers, leading to immediate employment as a Pharmacy Technician after her internship. In this role, Aleecia continues to learn and grow, gaining valuable experience in medication management and patient interaction.
Aleecia has completed her training program and obtained certifications in CNA, PCT, Phlebotomy Technician, EKG Technician, CPR, and Pharmacy Technician License. With these certifications and practical experience secured, Aleecia is now focused on becoming a nurse. She is pursuing post-secondary education to obtain her LPN, a crucial step toward her ultimate dream of working in a hospital setting.
Throughout her journey, Aleecia has remained committed to her goals, supported by her career coach and the resources provided by YJC. "My favorite part about YJC is the meetings with my coach, Sara. We’re always positive with one another, always talking about what’s next for myself and my career. It’s always great seeing her because I barely do," Aleecia shares.
Her story is a powerful example of how dedication and support transform challenges into stepping stones for success. As Aleecia herself advises, "Stay consistent with yourself and your goals no matter how hard it gets. You may feel discouraged sometimes, but you can’t let that break you. Never give up on yourself."

Introduction:

Fatima Roufi, a 21-year-old participant in the Healthcare Pathways program, has transformed her life through the support of JTED funding and the Youth Job Center (YJC). Originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, Fatima's journey is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the power of community support.

Background:

Fatima grew up in Kabul, advocating for women's rights through journalism despite the risks involved. Moving to the United States presented new challenges: adapting to a different culture, overcoming language barriers, and navigating the job market.

Overcoming Challenges:

Before joining YJC, Fatima faced difficulties aligning her employment with her career goals. Her previous experience was limited to housekeeping, and she encountered challenges adapting to new technologies and advocating for herself. However, her determination to succeed and support her family remained unwavering.

Support from YJC and JTED Funding: Fatima's involvement with YJC marked a turning point. The center provided comprehensive support:

• Career Advising: Guiding her to set realistic career goals and stay focused on her aspirations.
• Tutoring and Technology Training: Equipping her with essential skills in computer literacy and software proficiency.
• Resume and Interview Preparation: Enhancing her ability to present herself to potential employers confidently.
• Financial Assistance: Covering tuition for her healthcare training program and providing logistical support such as gas cards for attending classes.
• Paid Work Experience (PWE): Offering practical experience at Walgreens as a Pharmacy Technician.

Personal Growth:

Through YJC, Fatima rediscovered her strengths, developed technological proficiency, improved her English communication skills, and gained confidence in advocating for herself. Her career coach provided essential guidance:

"There are not many honest people in the world; my career coach has been so honest with me and kind to work with," Fatima reflects. "She has helped me with any problem I’ve encountered. She has helped advocate for me and prepared me for employment. Now I feel confident about using the skills I learned and know how to do so much more since she made time to help me with basic things or connected me with outside sources to help with my technology issue."

Her coach's understanding of her background and culture was invaluable:

"My career coach helped me find my confidence again," Fatima continues. "She was able to remind me of all my skills or encouraged me to try new things. When things didn’t go as planned, she was always there to advise and pick me up until I could accomplish my goal. Another important thing for me is that she understands my background and my culture, which helped so much because I didn’t have to explain why I have to do things differently and my position in my family."

Achievements and Future Goals:

Securing employment as a Pharmacy Technician has significantly improved Fatima's life, easing financial burdens and allowing her to pursue her passion in healthcare. Looking forward, Fatima aims to obtain a bachelor's degree and advance further in her career, ensuring stability and success for her family.

Advice to Others:

Fatima encourages fellow youth to engage proactively with career advisors, emphasizing the importance of utilizing available resources and support systems to achieve their goals.

Conclusion:

Fatima Roufi's inspiring journey from Kabul to success in the United States underscores how determination and comprehensive support from programs like JTED and organizations like YJC can transform challenges into opportunities. Her story is a beacon of hope for those facing similar obstacles, highlighting the transformative impact of perseverance and community support.

Background and Early Challenges

Growing up on the west side of Chicago, Jekireya Thomas faced significant challenges, including poverty and violence. Despite these obstacles, she was determined not to become a statistic and aimed to pursue a healthcare career. After high school, she started taking pre-requisites for a nursing program at Malcolm X College but had to pause her studies to focus on working.

Turning Point

Four years later, frustrated with dead-end jobs, Jekireya decided to reignite her healthcare career aspirations. She attended a WIOA information session and aimed to enroll in healthcare training. There, she discovered the Youth Job Center (YJC) and decided to enroll in the Chicago Community Learning Center (CCLC) through YJC. Reflecting on this, she said, "I finally got tired of working dead-end jobs and told myself, 'Hey, you need to get back to the dreams you had for yourself.'"

Education and Career Progression

At the Chicago Community Learning Center (CCLC), Jekireya Thomas completed courses in Patient Care Technician (PCT), Phlebotomy Technician, EKG Technician, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). While she earned her CNA certification after passing the CNA class, her education and experience in PCT, Phlebotomy, and EKG Technician roles significantly contributed to her professional growth. Reflecting on her experience, Jekireya emphasizes, "The PCT class at CCLC expanded my knowledge and hands-on experience in Phlebotomy and EKG procedures, paving the way for my role as a labor and delivery technician at a prominent hospital."

Support and Guidance from YJC

Jekireya emphasizes the pivotal role YJC played in her success. She first learned about YJC at a WIOA session and quickly engaged with their program due to the compelling support and faster processing offered by YJC representatives. "I instantly reached out to them, and the process started rolling a lot faster," she recalls. She particularly appreciates the support system provided by YJC, which includes frequent check-ins and personalized assistance from her career coaches, Sara and Francesca. "My favorite part about YJC would have to be having a support system. Whether it's a phone call or text checking in, it's greatly appreciated."

Skills Development and Workforce Readiness

Jekireya benefitted significantly from YJC's workforce readiness training. She learned how to build an effective resume and improved her interview skills through mock interviews, which helped her eliminate filler words and show genuine interest during interviews. "A lot of times, we have GOOD stuff on the resume! But something as simple as not writing professionally and having a bad resume format can throw a potential job off," she explains. Regarding interview preparation, she adds, "That mock interview was the best thing ever created! It helped me brush up on not using filler words ('Like,' 'Um')."

Long-Term Goals

Her ultimate ambition is to become a Neonatal Nurse. She plans to discuss further educational opportunities with her career advisors to work towards this goal. "My career advisors and I will be sitting down sometime this week to discuss getting back to school to work my way to some nursing classes," Jekireya shares. YJC continues to provide resources and support to help her achieve her dreams.

Advice for Others

Jekireya advises other YJC clients to maintain open communication with their career coaches and utilize them to navigate challenges. "Talk to your career coach! If you are having problems with instructors, they can be your voice of reason," she advises. She underscores the importance of saving time and taking full advantage of the opportunities and support provided by YJC. "Don't waste your or your Career coach's time!" she urges.

Conclusion

Jekireya's story is an inspiring example of how determination and the proper support can lead to significant career achievements. By leveraging JTED funding and the resources offered by YJC, she transformed her life and is well on her way to achieving her long-term career goals. Her experience underscores the value of programs like YJC in providing education and career opportunities to individuals determined to improve their lives. "To anyone who is thinking about joining YJC, do it! Who doesn't want tuition-free education? All you have to do is show up and learn, and they handle everything else for you," she concludes.

Ariel Prince's story is a remarkable journey of determination, skill-building, and professional growth, made possible through the support of JTED funding and the invaluable resources offered by YJC.

From Security Officer to Healthcare Professional

A young woman from Chicago, Ariel entered the medical field at 18 or 19. She has diverse experience working in specialty pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. With a passion for healthcare, Ariel decided to enhance her credentials by obtaining certifications as a Patient Care Technician (PCT), EKG Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician from the Chicago Community Learning Center (CCLC) at Thorek Hospital.

Discovering YJC

Ariel was drawn to the Youth Job Center (YJC) after seeing its positive impact on others pursuing medical careers. Enrolling in YJC’s healthcare program, she was determined to advance her career and achieve her long-term goal of becoming a Physical Therapist or Veterinarian.

The Path to Employment

Through YJC's comprehensive professional development training, Ariel received assistance with resume writing and mock interviews, which were pivotal in her job search. Armed with her EKG Technician certification and the skills honed through YJC, Ariel was referred to UChicago Medicine. She successfully interviewed and secured a position as a Cardiac Telemetry Technician, a role she is passionate about and excels in.

Continuous Learning and Giving Back

Ariel thrives in her role at UChicago Medicine and is pursuing further education to expand her career options. Balancing her job and studies, she has taken on paid work experience as a healthcare tutor, helping other JTED students prepare for their AMCA board exams to become EKG Technicians, PCTs, and Phlebotomy Technicians. Her dedication has enabled over five students to pass their exams and understand complex course materials.

Financial Literacy and Career Coaching

YJC’s Financial Opportunity Center connected Ariel with Trevor, who provided valuable insights into credit building, saving, and financial literacy. Additionally, Ariel's relationship with her career coach, Sara Algawerash, has been instrumental in her success. They worked closely through various communication channels, ensuring Ariel received the best support and benefits YJC offers.

Reflection and Advice

Reflecting on her journey, Ariel realizes she is much more intelligent and capable than initially believed. Her advice to other YJC clients is to utilize the resources available through the program entirely. If she could return, she would have signed up for the program sooner. She encourages her friends and anyone interested in advancing their careers to join YJC, as it offers extensive support and opportunities.

A Bright Future Ahead

Ariel’s favorite part of YJC has been the Workforce Readiness Training and the relationship with her career coach. The program has significantly impacted her career trajectory, providing her with the tools and confidence needed to excel in healthcare. Ariel is now working towards furthering her education, with aspirations of becoming a Physical Therapist, Veterinarian, or Cardiologist.

Ariel Prince's story is a testament to the power of dedication, education, and the supportive network provided by YJC. Her journey from a security officer to a thriving healthcare professional inspires many, demonstrating that with the right resources and determination, achieving one’s career goals is within reach.

We met Brianna from a school we visited on the South side; she was going through some difficult times, and she has a young child. She wanted to be a role model and show her child that a person’s dreams and goals can come true through challenging situations. Brianna has completed the MOA Program, took the certification exam, and passed the first time. She did not have enough confidence in herself when she started the program. Now, Brianna will be completing her internship and looking forward to a promising career; what helped Brianna was that the MOA program offered free tuition. She does not have to worry about any debt. She is motivated and encouraged by what the future has for her!

Stephanie came to us with low expectations due to a severe, unfortunate car accident. Her family was even afraid for her to participate in the MOA program, thinking it would be too difficult for her due to her car accident. She encountered many challenges. That did not stop her; Stephanie did not listen to her family and committed to the program. Today, Stephanie has completed the MOA program, passed the certification exam, is doing her internship in an occupational setting, and is eager to help others. Knowing the difficulties she endured, she wants to give back. 

The speech to her class at graduation is very emotional and inspirational and is as follows:

My name is Stephanie. I am 27 years old. It was one of my biggest dreams to return to school and get a career in the medical field, and thanks to Rincon Family Services, I could reach that dream. It was hard work, but we had a strong community of people who helped us every step of the way. We face many obstacles in life, and sometimes, we get discouraged. I faced many challenges going back to school, such as financial issues, real-life problems, and people doubting that I wasn't going to be able to finish the program because of my physical health. Two years ago, I had a tragic car accident where I almost lost my life because of a drunk driver. I fractured my spine and broke my legs, but thanks to GOD, I am here today. I put in the challenging work in physical therapy for over a year, and I learned how to walk again; for that, I am forever grateful, and for that reason, my passion grew to be in the medical field to be able to help others no matter what obstacle came my way. I strived to be the best every day. Every late night staying up to study was worth being here today and saying I did it! It gives me so much joy and is my first step in the right direction for a better future!

When we met Anthony, he was so excited about starting the program. Anthony was still in College; his dream was to be a Doctor. He loves to work with the community. Anthony completed the MOA program and participated in the internship; he was so geared toward what he wanted that when he took the certification exam, he passed the exam on the first try.  Anthony Completed his internship and was hired at the Urgent Medical Center. He loves what he does and is always motivated to help others.

He is a wheelchair user and accomplishes his goals of going into the medical field by completing the program, completing his internship, and landing a job working at an occupational therapy center. He gives hope to everyone to overcome their challenges regardless of their situation. He also received his CMAA certificate. He is a role model and inspires everyone every day.

Dennis Maldonado Wiley is an In-School Youth Program Participant through the St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants Department. He is a part-time student majoring in political science at Southwestern Illinois College. Before joining, Dennis had never heard about the WIOA program until one day, by chance at Lowe’s, when an employee's husband was around and happened to bring it up. Dennis’s mouth dropped at all the services and opportunities the program provides youth, and he was highly interested from the beginning.

Soon after enrolling in the program, Dennis began and completed his Paid Work Experience (PWE) at St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants Department as an Office Assistant for LIHEAP. His supervisor and colleagues would constantly discuss the pleasure of having Dennis in the office. His consistent strong work ethic and positive attitude led to an interview with the St. Clair County Circuit Clerk as his Paid Work Experience was nearing the end. The Circuit Clerk and his staff were impressed with Dennis during the interview and agreed to On-the-Job Training (OJT). Dennis has been working there since January 2024 and has been doing great!

When Dennis and his Career Specialist met for the first time, Dennis had only been in the United States for about a month. He was raised in Bolivia and had lived there most of his life. It was a culture shock both socially and economically. Despite having very little, Dennis got the proper attire for his new job through supportive services. Transportation has been a barrier for Dennis because he and his family share one car. Dennis learned how to take the city bus early on, which is how he gets to work. Dennis also lacked confidence when he came into the program, but throughout his journey and new experiences, Dennis has since bloomed into a confident young man. Dennis is still participating and excelling in his On-the-Job Training at the St. Clair County Courthouse. Although being a college student and working is not easy, Dennis continues to push forward – eased and facilitated by our available resources. Dennis is excited and hopeful about his future. He is eternally grateful to have learned and become part of the WIOA Youth Program.

Danville Area Community College and Vermilion County Works (VCW) have served as an apprenticeship intermediary for several years. A partnership with the Illinois Rural Water Association (IRWA) began in April 2022 after they approached VCW about projects they are working on. IRWA was interested in getting assistance in getting their new Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) off the ground.

The IRWA approved the Water Operator and Wastewater Operator RAPs but struggled to convince cities and municipalities they work with to invest in apprentices. The need for new water and wastewater operators is significant, as many experienced operators are quickly reaching retirement age. Still, local budgets must increase to hire new talent to replace departing workers. The municipalities thought apprenticeships were good training opportunities and said they could hire new talent but were unwilling or unable to commit funds to support participation in apprenticeships, such as training expenses or tools and supplies needed for apprentices to train. Through Apprenticeship Illinois, VCW provided funding for training costs and supportive services to apprentices participating in the RAPs directly to the municipalities in the local area. The Village of Tilton was first to sign on, followed by the Village of Westville, the City of Hoopeston, and later Gibson City and the Urbana-Champaign Sanitary District.

The IRWA provided training to apprentices through an online training program, and the tools and supplies needed for instruction were paid for by the Apprenticeship Illinois funds. As a result, the IRWA’s apprenticeship program has seen significant growth over the past couple of years, and more municipalities continue to sign on to the program. The first graduate will finish his Wastewater Operator Certificate in the spring of 2024, with more graduates following later in the year. The online training program will also include an Illinois EPA Certification, allowing the local water systems to continue meeting regulatory requirements.

Doug Crider found himself at a crossroads – remaining at a job he hated or risk to go in a new direction. “I thought, if I wait too much longer, it’ll be too late to start something new,” Doug explained. He enjoyed mechanical work for years and noticed a job posting on Indeed for a diesel mechanic at Pepsi MidAmerica. During his interview, Doug was introduced to Man-Tra-Con’s Registered Apprenticeship Program in Industrial Truck Maintenance and realized he could pursue training he would enjoy.

Pepsi MidAmerica hired Doug and helped him enroll in the Industrial Truck Maintenance Apprenticeship Program. Doug quickly realized he had found the right path. Man-Tra-Con provided the tools Doug needed to start as a diesel mechanic, allowing him to begin on-the-job training at Pepsi MidAmerica while earning a sustainable wage. “[The apprenticeship] helped me know this is the career I want versus just a job,” Doug said. “Great people are training me.”

My name is Taneese McKinley, and I couldn't be more grateful for the opportunity that the Youth Advocacy Foundation (YAF) has offered me. When I thought my goals and dreams of becoming a nurse were slim to none, YAF stepped in and allowed me to receive training as a CNA. I went to Nirvana Institute, and I loved it. The school was hands-on, and the support I received with weekly check-ins, gas cards, and motivation has been a tremendous help to me. This opportunity has put me back on track with my nursing career and opened more job opportunities with great pay to support myself. I just landed my first job as a CNA/caregiver manager at a nursing home with great pay and benefits. I am also looking for a college to become a LPN.  Thank you, YAF, for giving me this opportunity; it's intensely and deeply appreciated.

Frankie joined A Safe Haven’s Landscape training program in 2022. After much hard work and dedication, Frankie has seen that this pattern leads to success. Starting as a groundskeeper gave him the skills to prosper on the job. Because the training program offers integrated education and training, Frankie learned landscaping skills and received tools and training on how to be a successful employee, retain employment, and other skills that would make him an asset to his employer. One of the JTED program components is career counseling and transition services, where he meets with his career navigator to set goals and focus on finding employment. One goal he set and completed is the Illinois Pesticide training class.
Another goal that he set was to find employment. Frankie was recently hired as a supervisor with the Landscape Department and will be in charge of his crew. After two hard years of training, he has the tools to sustain employment and a living wage, which benefits his family and the community. The program hopes his success story will inspire other trainees, using the resources to take them from trainee to employee.

In a world where traditional career pathways are evolving at an unprecedented pace, the College of DuPage (COD) is a champion of innovation, leading the charge in expanding apprenticeship opportunities in non-traditional fields. With the strategic expansion, COD witnessed an extraordinary 86% increase in apprenticeships from the 2022-2023 academic year to the 2023-2024 academic year, transforming lives and shaping futures across diverse sectors.

Traditionally rooted in manufacturing, COD's apprenticeship program underwent a remarkable transformation, embracing the dynamic demands of the modern workforce. By diversifying offerings to encompass Information Technology, Healthcare, Early Childhood Education, and Business/Human Resources, COD extended its reach in work-based learning, fostering a new era of skills development and professional growth.

At the heart of this success story lies COD's unwavering commitment to forging impactful partnerships. By collaborating with respected institutions like Northwestern Medicine, apprenticeships were developed in Medical Assisting, Computer Desktop Support and Software Development. COD bridges critical skill gaps and nurtures a talent pipeline tailored to the evolving needs of the healthcare and technology sectors.

Moreover, COD's commitment to inclusivity and diversity underscores its role as a catalyst for societal change. By democratizing access to apprenticeship opportunities across industries, COD champions diversity as a cornerstone of progress, fostering an inclusive ecosystem where talent thrives irrespective of background or circumstance. By equipping apprentices with cutting-edge skills and real-world experience, COD ignites a transformative journey toward professional excellence and personal fulfillment.

As we celebrate the success of COD's expanded apprenticeship program, we witness a paradigm shift in the workforce development landscape. Guided by innovation, fueled by collaboration, and driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, COD continues to unlock pathways to success. College of DuPage's apprenticeship program epitomizes the transformative power of education in shaping a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

My name is Daishonda Jenkins, and I have a story about how I became successful in my journey. I wanted to become an 18-wheeler truck driver and start my own business. My friend, Krystion, referred me to the program she worked for called the Illinois Youth Investment Program (IYIP), where they help with educational training for CDL licenses. I linked up with a great case manager, Ms. Lawson, who enrolled me in the program and assisted me with the information I needed. She sent me to the Driving Academy 160, where I took a five-week course to get my license. I received my CDL license on 11/28/2023, then gained employment driving for Hogan Personenel LLC. It has been a blessing for me to have people who care about the community. Soon, I will start my own business.

Expanding its horizon and scaling up its flatwork projects, JB Esker, the esteemed concrete construction company nestled in Teutopolis, Illinois, has recently embarked on an exciting growth journey. In its pursuit of heightened efficiency and enhanced productivity, JB Esker has invested strategically in a cutting-edge S-15R Power Screed, a testament to its commitment to quality and innovation.

However, as with any new endeavor, challenges inevitably arise. Despite the acquisition of this state-of-the-art equipment, JB Esker found itself facing unexpected hurdles. Whenever the S-15R Power Screed encountered issues on the job site, the company was forced to rely on external repair services, leading to frustrating delays and hampered productivity. Recognizing the imperative for self-reliance and efficiency, JB Esker resolved to empower its workforce with the knowledge and expertise needed to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain the equipment independently.

After completing training with unwavering determination and a steadfast commitment to mastery, JB Esker stands poised to revolutionize its approach to concrete construction. Armed with newfound expertise and empowered by a spirit of innovation, the company is ready to surmount any challenge, seize every opportunity, and redefine the standards of excellence in the industry.

As a small business owner, the need for additional assistance is ever-present, but the financial resources to support that need are often limited. However, thanks to the WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) program, we found an invaluable solution to this challenge.

Aleyna Bayat, an intern from Germany provided through the WIOA program, has been nothing short of a game-changer for our company. Her presence has allowed us to meet our day-to-day operational demands and significantly contributed to our marketing efforts for our company and clients.

One of the standout projects Aleyna undertook was her pivotal role in marketing the Total Solar Eclipse event in Fairfield, Illinois, in April 2024. She was responsible for designing tickets, crafting marketing materials, and even coordinating special guests for our podcasts. Her dedication, creativity, and work ethic were instrumental in meeting the vastly approaching deadline.

The impact of the WIOA Workforce Program on our business has been immeasurable, enabling us to thrive and grow in ways that would have been challenging otherwise. I am profoundly grateful for this program and its flexibility in allowing us to bring on interns like Aleyna, even when they are participating in study abroad programs.

Aleyna's contribution has helped our business flourish and provided her invaluable real-world experience. It's a win-win situation that exemplifies the power and potential of programs like WIOA in fostering individual and business success.

Magoo and Associates is a computer network consulting group in Effingham, Illinois, providing all network support to community organizations and businesses. Still, their current clientele is limited because they need a qualified staff member to work on or troubleshoot fiber optic cabling problems. Magoo and Associates sent a staff member to Parkland College to earn Fiber Optic Cabling Repair certificates. This training enhanced their ability to get more business, allowing them to expand their operations and keeping them a leader in the IT sector and more competitive in the IT market.

Fair-Rite Products, Inc. of Flat Rock is one of the world's leaders in developing and producing Ferrite products. The company needed to learn Lean Manufacturing principles to reduce the time from order to completion, reduce wasted motions and inventory, and improve their efficiency and turnaround time when changing from product to product. The training will continue to lead them in the right direction regarding increasing workloads, helping them maintain their reputation and keeping them a leader in their industry, thus possibly growing with the demand for their service. This training is an ongoing continuous improvement plan developed with their corporate office. They have started implementing Lean processes into the daily operations and are starting to see quality results, leading them to be able to obtain more orders and grow their company.

Chance Fisher participated in the Job Training Economic Development (JTED) program at Nicor Gas, a rigorous work-based learning experience. Throughout the program, Chance showed remarkable growth and strength of character despite being new to the company culture and the nature of work. He worked tirelessly to understand the reading material, collaborate with his peers, and deliver his best performance.

As part of his assignments, Chance was required to complete homework, create elevated pitches, and participate in projects each week. These tasks allowed him to develop his public speaking skills by presenting to his classmates and company partners. The exposure to different audiences helped him to build his confidence and learn how to engage effectively with others.

Through trials and tribulations, Chance completed his work-based learning and graduated from the academy. His hard work and dedication paid off when he was offered a job with Nicor Gas as a Customer Service Representative. This is a testament to how far perseverance and determination can take you.

Chance's story inspires others who may be facing similar challenges. His remarkable growth and determination to succeed demonstrate that you can overcome any obstacle with hard work and faith in yourself. Nicor Gas and the JTED program provided Chance with the tools and resources he needed to succeed, and he made the most of these opportunities. His success is a testament to the power of work-based learning programs and their benefits to individuals looking to develop their skills and advance their careers.

Ashton Velicheti has been a dedicated participant in the Job Training Economic Development (JTED) program offered by the Quad County Urban League. The program is designed to provide individuals like Ashton with the necessary tools and resources to build a strong professional skill set, boost their confidence, and cultivate a great work ethic. Over the years, Ashton has worked hard and demonstrated his dedication to the program, and his efforts have paid off.

Recently, Ashton landed a customer service representative position at Nicor Gas, and he credits his success to the JTED program. The program has enabled him to develop exceptional communication skills, perform well under pressure, and a strong customer-centric approach to his work. Ashton's training has equipped him with the skills to provide excellent customer service and resolve any issues that arise efficiently. He has also gained valuable experience handling complex customer inquiries, managing customer complaints, and building positive customer relationships.

Moreover, the JTED program has enabled Ashton to build meaningful relationships with his teachers and colleagues. Through the program, he has had the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. His dedication and positive attitude have made him a valuable member of the Nicor Gas team, and he is grateful for the opportunity to continue growing and developing his skills in this role.

Ashton's success is a testament to the effectiveness of the JTED program. Through our partnership with Nicor Gas, Ashton received weeks of intensive training for his work-based learning. During this period, he learned the nature of customer service work, how to treat each customer with the utmost respect, understand their needs, and resolve their problems. Ashton's training made him the perfect candidate for the job, and he is thrilled to be part of the Nicor Gas team.

In summary, Ashton's story is an inspiring example of how hard work, dedication, and proper training can lead to success. He is proof that programs like JTED can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals looking to build a successful career.

Fifteen West Frankfort High School students toured the Continental Tire plant in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, on Wednesday, February 28, 2024. Man-Tra-Con sponsored the 2-hour tour with grant funding from the Local Works Program. Currently celebrating its 50th Anniversary, Continental Tire led a full tour of all departments. Continental staff also discussed apprenticeship opportunities, training programs, and career paths with the students. The tour began at 8:30am and ended at 10:30am. The Local Works program, developed from supplemental grant funding, was designed to connect young adults with local employers in the area and raise awareness about potential job and apprenticeship opportunities available after graduation. This tour was the second of several future tours planned for high school students within Local Workforce Area 25, which includes Franklin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, and Williamson Counties. For more information about our services and programs for employers, adult job seekers, dislocated workers, and youth, visit our website at https://mantracon.org.

Madison Sturgeon, at 20, graduated from Shawnee Community College in Spring 2023 and chose the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) career path. She had a family member experience an accident, which resulted in an SCI. Occupational therapy helped that family member gain a lot of ability to complete daily tasks many people take for granted, such as bathing, toileting, dressing, etc. Madison states that the WIOA program helped her tremendously. I went to clinicals or classes for 40 hours per week during the program, which made it hard to work. WIOA allowed me to focus on school by relieving some financial stress as they assisted me with books, fees, tuition, travel expenses, and clinical equipment. Madison says that at her current job, she works with individuals with various diagnoses in the geriatric population. Part of my job duties is to help these individuals regain strength and restore their profile levels of function while working with the rehab team to the best of my ability. Many people think Occupational Therapy has something to do with people who get hurt on the job, and while this is true, we do work with that population. According to the Occupational Therapy field, Occupation is a term used for daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, etc. Occupational Therapists work to promote health, well-being, and your ability to participate in the essential activities in your life. Madison feels that the WIOA program helped her achieve her goal of becoming an OTA by motivating her to stay on track. WIOA assisted her with financial stress so she could maintain focus on schoolwork. Madison also wants to extend her appreciation to the SDC WIOA Program by saying, “Thank you.”

Twila Green has taken advantage of all the opportunities the Lighthouse has provided her since walking in the door. She started as an intern in our Low Vision Call Center while completing the certified medical administrative assistant cohort. After her internship, she became a full-time UI Health Call Center employee and has just celebrated her year-long anniversary working in the center.

In DuPage County, many are turning to apprenticeships to solve staffing shortages. When the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Scholarship Program was announced, Jean Zaar, director of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) at the College of DuPage (COD), knew the time was ripe for her field to enter the apprenticeship game. “This program is something I always wanted to do. We began discussing how we could participate in apprenticeship pre-COVID. The ECACE scholarship program was a blessing that gave us the means to implement the program we had been wanting to develop for a few years.”

With funding from the ECACE Scholarship Program, employers who might otherwise not be able to support apprentices could support their incumbent workers in growing their skill set by providing on-the-job training opportunities. The ECACE scholarship program is available to current and past employees of childcare facilities in Illinois to help them seek further education and credentials to address the shortage of qualified early childhood educators. Members of the ECEC and Project Hire-Ed apprenticeship office at the College of DuPage began meeting in the winter of 2023 to develop a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program that would be student-centered and advantageous to area employers.

Last fall, the first cohort of apprentices began their coursework and on-the-job training. Ten employees from Educare in West Chicago were welcomed, introduced to the support the College of DuPage provides apprentices, and presented with laptops to help them start their journey strong. According to one apprentice in the program, the support provided by the College of DuPage staff helped her find her groove in the program. “When I started the apprenticeship program, I had many doubts and fears (I didn’t know if my English was good enough to study here), but the entire COD team has accompanied me along this path, filling me with words of encouragement.” Now in its second semester, the College of DuPage is excited to announce a 100% success and retention rate achieved through the intentional design of the program.

A cohort model was used to help develop connections and support for the participants. The program also includes on-site mentors who received training to support these apprentices, regular site visits with the apprentices to provide individualized support, and assistance with registration and campus needs. Most significantly, Zaar considered the apprentices' current knowledge, experience, and work schedules when designing the related technical instruction. The program improves accessibility for degree completion by creating a pathway for upskilling the incumbent workforce, acknowledging current and past experience in the childcare field, and recognizing the need for convenience for those trying to balance work, life, and school. The ECEC team developed prior learning assessments and moved courses online to support the schedules of incumbent workers, who previously may not have been available to attend in-person classes.

Zaar is proud of what they were able to accomplish this past semester. “I wanted the apprentices to feel like they were part of COD, even though they weren’t taking classes here on campus. Being present was important so that they knew that we were there. They never felt like they were just left to do anything alone. We helped the apprentices build their confidence, and they all felt like, ‘I can do this.’ And to make someone have those feelings about themselves makes me happy.”

One apprentice sums up how this program has impacted her career, “This apprenticeship program has brought back my spark. It has helped me prove that pursuing a career is never too late. I have become more confident in my work abilities and improved during my teaching.”

In addition to changing the lives of the ten apprentices in the cohort, it produced positive outcomes for the employer and the community.  According to the employer, this program has impacted the community and the families at their school. “It has helped to improve the quality of education provided to children. Staff are better equipped to meet the needs of individual children and families and are more likely to stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in early childhood education. This has led to better outcomes for children, families, and the community.”

Big 3 Precision, a leading manufacturer renowned for its diverse range of products, faced a pivotal challenge: an aging workforce and the impending departure of a seasoned machinist. Recognizing the critical need for continuity in their operations, the company embarked on a forward-thinking initiative to address this gap. Amidst the bustling warehouse floors, they spotted a promising candidate – a dedicated employee with a passion for learning and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. Rather than seeking external hires, Big 3 Precision saw potential within their ranks. This proposition wasn't just a career shift but a strategic investment in talent. The employee, eager to seize this chance for personal and professional growth, embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. With the company's support, they enrolled in a rigorous college program complemented by hands-on apprenticeship training. The impending retirement of the seasoned machinist no longer casts a shadow of uncertainty. Instead, there was a palpable sense of readiness, fueled by the knowledge that the warehouse apprentice was diligently preparing to step into those shoes. With the machinist's apprentice transitioning roles, a new opportunity emerged for another eager employee to step into their shoes. The cycle of growth and advancement continued, propelling Big 3 Precision forward on a trajectory of success.

Jose came to The Workforce Connection after being a part of a mass layoff from Chrysler in 2022. After attending an orientation event for The Workforce Connection, he learned that we could provide tuition assistance and support him in connecting to training in an in-demand field as support from becoming laid off. Jose knew he wanted to get into a trade and learned what training options were available in these fields. Jose worked with his Career Planner and decided that he wanted to attend the HVAC Diploma Program at Rockford Career College. In 2023, Jose graduated and received his HVAC Diploma! However, Jose did not stop there! While attending school, he applied for the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 23 Apprenticeship Program. Jose was accepted into this program and is now on his way to becoming a Journeyman! As a part of the program, Jose has gained experience working at Helm Mechanical as an HVAC Service Technician Apprentice. Jose is close to finishing his first year of this 5-year program! After the fifth year, Jose will earn his Journeyman card and a substantial, livable wage for himself and his family. When Jose was asked how his life differed from when he began working with The Workforce Connection, he said, “Now he has a clear vision of what he is going to accomplish and how he is going to get there.” He also said, “he is grateful for this amazing program that paid 100% of his training and continues to provide support and encouragement”. He added that without this program, he would not have been able to pursue his career goal of establishing a career in a trade like he had always dreamed of.  Congratulations, Jose! We are so proud of all that you have accomplished!

Lloyd Griggs applied for assistance with employment on 7/26/23. I continued coaching Mr. Griggs at an appointment on 8/2/23. We discussed possible job opportunities at this appointment and did the cluster survey and Employment 101. I mentioned a potential job opportunity with a janitorial service company. Mr. Griggs left our appointment and drove immediately to America's Hometown Services to see about the job. Mr. Grigg's was hired immediately and started the job the next day. We set up an email account and an Indeed account at the next appointment. Mr. Griggs continues to work for America's Hometown Services. He has continued to be an active participant in the JTED program. Mr. Griggs continues to apply for other jobs that pay better and offer more hours to either replace or supplement his current job. In mid-September of 2023, Mr. Griggs started applying for an apartment. He has been living in a Christian-based group home for men for the last year. He feels ready to get his own place and has diligently kept his appointments with Bella Ease. He played a very active role in finding an apartment. We have worked on a budget so that he will be prepared and aware of the expenses of renting an apartment. Bella Ease assisted Mr. Griggs with the application fees made possible with the JTED grant monies when applying for apartments. He eventually found a good place with reasonable rent that would be affordable and within his budget. We obtained a copy of the lease and read it together before he signed it. Bella Ease was also able to pay the deposit and first month's rent from the JTED grant monies. He was able to move into the apartment in mid-October. I assisted him with setting up automatic payments from his checking account to the property manager each month. Mr. Griggs continues to work and checks in with Bella Ease regularly. He was very proud to be able to make these accomplishments. His confidence has increased, and he appears settled and content - at peace.

Mariana Guzman was born and raised in Chicago. Growing up in a Catholic household, Mariana developed a strong foundation in faith. However, her journey and experiences ingrained her dedication to being a good person. Mariana stated, “I believe good follows those who do good, and most importantly, I believe in myself.” Mariana decided she needed a change from the office-based jobs - she wanted to follow her childhood dream to become a welder, have a better life, and have a more stable career with better pay. Mariana talked to her dad and friends who are certified welders, and they encouraged Mariana to pursue her dreams. After those conversations, she took a leap of faith and applied to the Chicago Women in Trades’ Women in Welding program. She impressed the staff with her serious work ethic and calm, positive attitude during enrollment. Mariana joined the Welding program’s Spring of 2023 class and excelled throughout. In June of 2023, before the end of the program, Mariana applied and was chosen to participate in the first All-Women’s Ironworker Pre-Apprenticeship 3-week pilot training program coordinated by Local 1, Local 63, and Local 444. Ten candidates were admitted. Only six people were going to receive direct entry. With three weeks remaining before her official graduation in August of 2023, Mariana was selected as one of the ten candidates. She left the Women in Welding program in good standing to enter another intensive training program. Mariana continued in her path of excellence. She completed her pre-apprenticeship training program and was one of the six selected for direct entry into a Trades Union – one of the most competitive Ironworkers Local 1. She has since been working through her apprenticeship period and has made great strides in skills and wages. By October 2023, Mariana landed a job working through Local 1 at Metropolitan Steel, with hourly starting wages of $34.00.

Kierson came to The Workforce Connection after learning he qualified for the Trade program due to being a dislocated worker from Chrysler. At the time, Kierson was unemployed and unsure what his next step would be. Once learning he could attend training leading to a career, he decided to invest in his education and work towards learning skills that lead to a career. Kierson explained he was apprehensive about returning to school after graduating high school 20 years earlier. However, he wanted to do this for himself and his daughter's future. He knew it would be difficult as a single father of a daughter with special needs, but he was ready and motivated to accomplish his career goals. With assistance from his Career Planner, Kierson enrolled in the Welding program at Rockford Career College. After the 8-month program, he earned his Diploma in Welding! Two weeks after graduating, he obtained a position at Hennig Inc. as a Welder. Kierson enjoys his new job and says he enjoys utilizing his new skills. His latest employment provides a livable wage and benefits, including health insurance, which is particularly important to him and his daughter. He stated, “Without the opportunity of this program, there was no option for me to go to school. I would have had to find another job; now I have something to build from.” Kierson is continuing to add career goals and is preparing to take his aptitude test for the Local 23 Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship program! When asked if he wanted to share anything about his success and the program, he said, “He highly recommends the program to anyone eligible and that they would be a fool not to take advantage of it!”

Congratulations Kierson! We are so proud of your accomplishments and look forward to seeing you continue to succeed in your new career!

Jayce Sampson became a participant in the YouthBuild of South-Central Illinois program on March 6, 2023. Jayce voiced in his interview with staff that he had endured abusive treatment under the care of his adoptive parents, which caused him to get a court case because he broke into their shop. In Jayce’s case, this all changed for him after he started accomplishing the goals he established at the beginning of the program. Jayce struggled with attendance until one day, Jayce had to go to court. The judge told Jayce to prove him wrong, not to follow his in-dad’s footprints, and end up in jail. After that court appearance, Jayce did a complete 360-degree turn. Jayce was one of the first participants in his Cohort to obtain his State of Illinois High School diploma. His girlfriend gave birth to their baby girl on the same day he took his last test. He immediately started working with the Job Developer in applying for jobs. Jayce got hired at Casey’s General Store. Even though Jayce had this job, he continued to apply for better-paying jobs. He got a job at North American Lighting (NAL), a car part manufacturing company. Jayce has restored his relationship with his adoptive parents. They have let Jayce and his family move in with them and are helping them get on their feet.

District 214 apprenticeships have benefited many students and, in some cases, the businesses we partner with. An apprenticeship with Keats Manufacturing helped Joe Grzelak, a senior at Prospect High School, shape his aspirations for college and beyond while helping the company build toward its future.

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Emily Munoz has always had a passion for nursing since she was little. With a strong desire to help people and support them during times of sickness and pain, she knew she wanted to be a nurse. Due to barriers, she could not begin nursing school immediately after high school. To get work experience, Emily first connected with Elgin Community College (ECC) through the Future Workforce Leaders Program (FWLP), which connects area youth ages 16-24 with opportunities to explore different career paths through paid work experiences and job shadowing.

Through FWLP, Emily was connected with Hanover Township, completing a paid work experience with their Community Health Department. As her paid work experience ended, her WIOA Navigator suggested she explore the CNA Apprenticeship through ECC. In December 2023, Emily completed her CNA course with AVID CNA School, ECC’s RTI vendor, and passed her state exam.

Now a licensed CNA, Emily is completing her on-the-job training with The Vines, a senior care center in Elgin. She loves working with patients and has developed a strong sense of the kind of healthcare worker she aspires to be. As she completes her apprenticeship, Emily takes the necessary prerequisites to enter ECC’s nursing program. Her experience as a CNA apprentice gives her insight into current issues with health care and a chance to refine her basic skills, making her an excellent candidate for the nursing program.

Salim Medjdouba immigrated to the United States from Algeria in 2022. With a degree in commercial and management sciences from the University of Boumerdes, he set out to establish his life in a new country. Thanks to family connections, he settled in the Elgin region. With experience as a machine operator, he found employment at a local manufacturer working as a materials handler, moving on to roles in production assembly as he worked to find his fit in the workplace.

Fluent in three languages, Salim knew he needed to master a fourth, English, for his career to flourish truly. In September 2023, he enrolled in Elgin Community College’s (ECC) English as a Second Language (ESL) Program, hoping to become proficient enough to enroll in the college’s technical courses. While in the ECC ESL program, Salim heard about ECC’s free Pre-Apprenticeship in Manufacturing. He and a family friend signed up to take the course together. Salim began the program eager to learn how to translate his technical knowledge into English, finding a common language on the machine floor. Salim passed all pre-apprenticeship classes, earning his OSHA-10 card and Forklift Driver certification. He then successfully interviewed for a materials handler job with a well-known local manufacturing company. As he began his new job, Salim was grateful for the chance to upskill and get into a company with upward mobility and opportunities. His new employer, Elgin Sweeper, is also on ECC’s target list to develop registered apprenticeships; hiring one of our pre-apprentices opened the door for those discussions in 2024.

Ms.Burson came to OAI unemployed with barriers in transportation and personal challenges that she battled consistently. Her car was in the repair shop, but she could not afford the repair fee to get it back. Upon enrolling in the OAI JTED program, she completed the Foundational Skills Workshop, which prepared her with the soft skills needed for an entry-level healthcare job. OAI's Systems Navigator met with her 1-on-1 to address all her barriers and concerns and developed an Individual Service plan. OAI utilized JTED Barrier Reduction Funding to assist Ms. Burson with vehicle repairs and Lyft rides while the car was in the shop. Upon completing the 120-hour training at Excelsior Healthcare Academy, she passed her state exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Ms. Burson was invited to the " Northwestern Medicine Career Pathways & Pizza" event at the OAI Chicago Southland Office. Soon, she landed an interview and a job shadowing practice, and the recruitment manager liked her CNA and communication skills and offered her a job on the spot. Ms. Burson started as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Northwestern Hospital on November 1, 2023, at $20.76/Hour. She also plans to utilize the $10,000 Tuition Reimbursement Program at Northwestern Medicine to enter advanced on-the-job training in Nursing.

Barrett Morrissette participates in the OAI's Electro-Mechanical Technician program funded by a Job Training and Economic Development Program (JTED) grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. In July 2023, Barrett saw a posting on Indeed describing OAI's Electro-Mechanical Technician training program. He was immediately drawn in as he was always interested in robotics and learning how machines function. However, Barrett tried several different resources, courses, and curriculums, but none taught in a way that made him stick to it. When trying to recover from his previous layoff as a sales development rep, he decided to try one last time with OAI. Once accepted into the program, Barrett completed the Foundational Skills Workshop that prepared him for the soft skills needed in the manufacturing sector and met with OAI's Program Coordinator 1-on-1 to create an Individual Service Plan that outlined all the transportation support, career coaching, and stipends needed to complete the training. During the program's 2-month span, he learned mechanical and electrical skills and earned the PMMI certification. He applied those skills to emergency repairs and working with electrical, appliances, and HVAC during an interview at Sam's Club. Barrett is now a Maintenance Technician at Sam's Club, earning $36.15 per hour. Barret stated in one of his messages to OAI: ‘I have achieved what I wouldn't have thought possible when I started. I met my wonderful classmates and friends I will never forget. I am a maintenance technician with an above-market pay rate now. I am so grateful for this opportunity to thrive in this career path.'

Bobby came to The Workforce Connection after being laid off from Chrysler in March 2023. He qualified to receive training due to being a previous auto industry worker. Although Bobby had a choice to retire, he still wanted to work, and at the time of his appointment with his Career Planner, he was unsure what he wanted to do for training or future employment. Bobby had been working at Chrysler for 27 years. Bobby spoke to his Career Planner about different options, and after some consideration, he decided to attend truck driver training. Bobby completed his training and obtained a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), which he now has ready for his new career in truck driving.

Congratulations Bobby! We are happy to be able to work with you on your decision to make truck driving your new career. We wish you the absolute best with your future employment!

Community partners traveled to West Michigan to identify best practices for apprenticeship expansion and local collaboration. Employers and community organizations discussed DEIA strategies; the community college shared public-private partnerships involvement in economic development and a trusted training provider; and the local workforce board provided insight into industry councils and apprenticeship expansion. Illinois partners included representatives from the local workforce board, local government, community college, and other stakeholders.

After learning about local apprenticeship expansion efforts, Kraft Heinz identified the Champaign facility as a pilot location for Kraft Heinz's registered apprenticeship for industrial maintenance technicians. The program, sponsored by Parkland College and Kraft Heinz, will be nationally registered by Jobs for the Future after the pilot phase. Extensive discussions and reviews with local and corporate teams have culminated in accepting the work process schedule and training instruction. The goal is to have students enrolled by the Spring semester of 2024, with the latest target being the Fall semester of the same year.

Amelia Altom is a Student Intern at School Safety Peoria High School! Under the mentorship of Officer Matthew Shirley, Amelia has gained skills in detecting potential conflicts during lunchtime observations. Officer Shirley said she is an outstanding student worker and has recommended her for an internship at Illinois Central College Security when she attends school in the fall. With the completion of Stop the Bleed training and her role in ensuring safety at evening school events, Amelia is an excellent example of the effectiveness of the internship program in providing practical, hands-on training for students. She is a prime example of how such experiences prepare individuals like her for future career pathways.

Kierra Hodges started as a student at the Hope Center Foundation in our Job Training and Economic Development program. When she entered the program, Kierra felt far from where she wanted to be in her career. She was still discovering the career pathway she wanted to explore. As a young woman with passions in dance, leadership, and caring for others, Kierra wanted to explore a path to get her closer to her lifelong dream of becoming a traveling nurse. The Hope Center Foundation invested in her career goals by placing her in a training program at the Chicago Instruction Center For Career Development in the Roseland community. After going through an 8-week intensive class, Kierra completed the training program and passed the National Phlebotomy Association exam -- officially receiving her state recognition as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician. Despite self-doubt, Kierra took leaps of faith to pursue her dreams and work passionately to get closer to her desired future. She applied to Chicago State University to begin her studies and make steps towards getting her nursing degree. After being accepted in August 2023, Kierra started her first day of college in September 2023 with a Global Diversity course. While embarking on a new journey as a college student, Kierra began her work-study as a Physical Therapist Assistant for the Chicago State University athletic department. The Hope Center Foundation was able to compensate Kierra for entering the healthcare field and compensate her for her work-based learning experiences. While closing out her semester, Kierra worked with Jessica Clark, the JTED Program Administrator, to work on her resume, apply for alternative job opportunities that would pull on her phlebotomy experience, and prepare for interviews. Moving into the second semester of her first year, Kierra accepted a full-time phlebotomist position at CSL Plasma that will allow her to pursue her nursing degree and progress in her career. It's been amazing to see her grow throughout her time at the Hope Center Foundation. Not only has her self-doubt decreased, but through her leadership roles in her extracurricular activities at her college, I've seen her organization, communication, and reliability skills grow.

Darmeze Fenderson is an Out-of-School youth who completed the 160 Driving Academy to gain his commercial driver's license (CDL) and is now employed with the St. Clair County Highway Department. Darmeze’s Career Specialist felt it was only suitable to allow Darmeze to tell his story through his lenses.

“I signed up for 160 Driving Academy and was looking forward to how things would go. The first week, I took a class portion of the academy and studied daily for the computer test. I passed on my first round and was very proud of myself; I knew it could only improve from that point. For another three weeks, I trained in the yard, and I have to say, the yard was a challenge! I started lost and worried, hoping that I could learn to drive 18-wheelers and beat what I felt was a challenge. As every week went by, I only got better and better, but by the time testing came, I had failed the road test. I felt defeated because something I trained so hard for, I couldn’t even pass. Luckily, that wasn’t my last chance. I trained again for another week and tested again. By the end of that week, I passed my CDL Class A Drivers Test. I was so proud of myself for overcoming the odds when I didn’t have a big support system. All of that alone makes me feel unstoppable. If I can do this on my own, I can do anything, I felt. After I got my CDL, I got a great job thanks to the help of my wonderful career specialist, Sandy, who had been with me the whole way, and I could keep thanking her more than I already had. Now I’m on the road to success, LITERALLY.”

Xueyun Rachel Liang began her journey in the restaurant industry by working as a waitress in a Chinese restaurant. She has worked as a waitress for many years, gaining foundational restaurant industry experience. Although she has been a great employee, she has always aspired to have her own restaurant business one day. Rachel discovered the Chinese Restaurant Upskill Job Training Program and was eager to join because she wanted to learn more about the restaurant industry. This would help her build more skills that would be practical for her as a restaurant owner. Rachel mentioned that through the program, she has learned many topics that she has been unable to know through her everyday life. For instance, she now has better knowledge of restaurant management, food safety, nutrition, and obtaining additional culinary skills. After completing the training program, Rachel successfully met her goal. She opened her restaurant with great confidence and looks forward to continuing to use all the skills and knowledge she has acquired.

Hersey student Riya works with actual patients through her apprenticeship with Northwest Community Hospital. Learn more about our apprenticeship program here.

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Meet Rolling Meadows High School senior Alexis Mennis. She works as a Certified Nursing Assistant apprentice at the Greek American Rehabilitation & Care Centre during the day. She takes classes at school and Harper College and has track & field practice after school. See how she does it all!

"Going through our career pathways program, I've been able to get a jump-start on my career. I got hands-on experience with patients, showing me I could do this for the rest of my life. I want to be a surgeon. It made me confident about the path I want to take."

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Agri-Fab has a DX200 Controller Arc welder that is imperative to daily operations. Unfortunately, only one employee has the skills to operate it. In looking into the future and the upcoming retirement of this individual, they recognized the urgent need to secure the future of their operations, and the leadership at Agri-Fab initiated a proactive plan. A comprehensive training program was set in motion to equip a new generation of employees with the intricate skills required to operate the DX200 Controller Arc welder. Without employees knowledgeable in the equipment operation, this process would have to be outsourced, costing the company unnecessary expenses. As the sun rose on a new era for Agri-Fab, it did so with the assurance that the DX200 Controller Arc welder, once tied to a single pair of expert hands, now rested in the capable grip of a team. The foresight of the company's leadership had secured its presence and positioned it as a leader in the industry, ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.

Change was in the air in the bustling halls of Peerless of America, a company deeply entrenched in the heat exchanger and extruded aluminum tube industries. The top management, mindful of the impending retirements of key leaders, recognized the need for a strategic shift in focus. It was time to cultivate a new generation of leaders who would guide the company into a prosperous future.

Enter the Lean Leadership training, a transformative initiative rippled through the organization like a breath of fresh air. The management team, fully onboard with the impending cultural shift, embarked on a journey that would redefine the very fabric of Peerless. As they delved into Lean Concepts, the gears of change were set in motion, aiming to slash downtime, eliminate waste, and orchestrate a symphony of efficiency.

This commitment to Lean Concepts wasn't just an internal overhaul but a key to unlocking the company's potential in the competitive market. Peerless and employees were becoming a beacon of marketability and competitiveness. The metamorphosis was palpable, resonating within the company's walls and across the broader landscape of the air conditioning, refrigeration, and automotive sectors.

As the training continued, a sense of anticipation filled the corridors. The company's metamorphosis was not only about surviving but thriving. Peerless of America was gearing up to be a force to be reckoned with, standing at the forefront of innovation and efficiency in the ever-evolving industries they served. The ripple effect of this transformative journey extended beyond the balance sheets. Peerless became a beacon for other companies aspiring to adapt, grow, and lead in their respective domains. The story of Peerless of America wasn't just about heat exchangers and aluminum tubes; it was a tale of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. The stage was set, the training continued, and the future held the promise of a Peerless tomorrow.

Shaina’s favorite part of working as an agent in The Lighthouse’s Low Vision Call Center was learning about patients' eye conditions. She started to think about having a full-time position in the medical field, but she wasn’t sure where to start.
Fortunately for Shaina, The Lighthouse, in August 2022, launched a partnership with Moraine Valley Community College to help people with disabilities – Shaina has a visual impairment – learn to become Certified Medical Administrative Assistants. When she heard about the program, Shaina enrolled immediately. “I wanted to find a way back into the medical field, and this one was perfect,” Shaina says. 
Using ZoomText, Shaina worked through the self-directed course of modules covering scheduling, privacy, and insurance coding at a pace much faster than the prescribed 16 weeks. “It was very thought-provoking,” she says. “Some of it was familiar, but a lot was new.”
Shaina’s vision has begun to fade further, and she is now learning to use a JAWS screen reader before taking the National Certification Exam.
Shaina was hired in February 2023 as a medical scheduler at the UI health call center.

Midwest Energy Logistics, operating as Olmsted Bros. Insulation, stands as a stalwart in commercial insulation by specializing in rejuvenating structures amidst new constructions and post-disaster remodels. However, their reliance on outsourced Public Adjusters for settling insurance claims has posed a significant challenge. This often protracted and costly external process hamstrings the company's ability to serve clientele, causing delays and financial strain promptly. The advent of a Certified Public Adjuster within the organization heralds a transformative era. Beyond expediting the recovery process, this strategic maneuver is poised to yield improved financial outcomes. Swift and precise resolution of insurance claims fortifies the company's bottom line and establishes an enviable reputation for reliability and efficiency. As a result, this innovative approach is anticipated to catalyze increased business opportunities and foster robust growth for Olmsted Bros. Insulation, solidifying its position as an industry leader.

In April 2021, Carmen dela Pena came to the United States from the Philippines, where she worked for 12 years in the tech industry and the last six years as an Application and Data Analyst. She resigned from her job to care for her grandmother living in Illinois. While there, she met her husband-to-be, fell in love, and married.

Unfortunately, Carmen found it challenging to find a similar job in technology in the United States so she took an ESL class through YWCA’s Literacy Council. Because of her background, Carmen was recommended to YW Tech Lab to learn the front-end of web development to add to her back-end coding knowledge. As a newly married woman with a four-month-old baby, Carmen took advantage of childcare assistance services through YWCA Northwestern IL while attending Front-End Web Development class at night.

Carmen was a woman on a mission. She especially wanted to learn the soft skills taught in class. At the same time, she sought out another online ESL class to help with her English to fast-track her route to employment.

A year before she decided to move to the U.S., Carmen had a nasty experience on a plane while flying from California back to the Philippines on a company training trip. She had fallen asleep on the plane only to awaken and overhear a group of strangers mocking her, publicly shaming her, and even following her to take a picture and call her crazy because of her language abilities. This incident shook Carmen’s self-confidence, and she was so depressed that she avoided verbal communication because she was afraid of making mistakes expecting to be harshly judged. Her fear intensified when she was interviewing for jobs after she first arrived. Potential employers told her that language was the barrier that prevented them from hiring her despite her many qualifications.

She was becoming a member of an inclusive web development class, where all cultures and races were welcomed, which allowed Carmen to open up, find her voice while rebuilding her confidence, and become proactive in continuing her acquisition of English skills.

Because she wanted to gain employment as quickly as possible, Carmen also took an online tech course in Google IT Support to add to her bachelor’s degree. With part-time jobs working as Door Dash delivery or a personal assistant, Carmen had to balance work, her two tech classes, and caring for her baby and husband—to say the least, she was extremely busy but laser-focused.

By this time, Carmen had come a long way from the student who once froze during mock interviews when she couldn’t find the right word in English to express herself. YW Tech Lab also helped Carmen pay to get her college degree translated for American employers to remove yet another potential barrier to employment.

Finally, her hard work paid off when, five months later, Carmen received her two tech certifications from YW Tech Lab and then, one month later, landed a paid internship through them with Aqua-Aerobic Systems in the IT department. Calling Carmen “phenomenal,” the HR Director introduced Carmen to her new IT Director. At the end of the internship, Carmen was offered a permanent part-time position as Programmer Specialist, a job created just for her.

Carmen’s supervisor says she meets all his requirements because she “fits in, works hard, and is willing to learn.” Her job has entailed creating and maintaining her company’s intranet website and developing reports for numerous departments. Carmen said she loves her job and is especially pleased that her supervisor is advocating for her position to become full-time in 2024.

Jennifer Sandoval enrolled in the Chicago Women in Welding 10-week training program on May 2, 2022. Before that, Jennifer worked as a dispatcher at Motorola for four years. During enrollment, Jennifer worked part-time as a Food Delivery Driver for DoorDash, UberEATS, Grubhub, and Instacart. Jennifer stated she wanted to do something different to utilize her hands and create things. Jennifer decided working in an office was no longer for her, so she decided to Google Women in Welding and located Chicago Women in Trades.

After contacting Chicago Women in Trades, the welding case manager determined she met eligibility and suitability requirements. During the training program, she received a wealth of Career Readiness services and technical skills such as MIG, TIG, and Arch Fabrication. In July 2022, Jennifer completed 288 hands-on training hours and gained an American Welding Society (AWS) D9.1 Credential and OSHA-10-hour general industry safety certification. As a result, within three weeks of completing training, Jennifer gained long-term training-related employment, working full time and making $22.00 hourly wages.

She shared this bio: "I am a welder and metal fabrication at a local Villa Park shop, where we create or repair anything and everything made of metal. We utilize stick, TIG, MIG welding, welding, and soldering as needed. What I enjoy most about my job is that I'm doing something different and learning something new every day. I like welding because welding is an art where I am constantly learning to improve, and it is very calming to me when I can tune out the world, focus on my weld puddle, and lay a nice bead."

The Services in Education and Economic Development (S.E.E.D.) Youth Financial Services had the opportunity to work with Ms. Aysha Lewis. During the program, Ms. Lewis explored different avenues of getting into her desired early childcare and education career field. While in the program, she committed time and effort to apply for her Paraprofessional Educator License with the Illinois State Board of Education. She is nearing completion of ECE Level 1 Credentialing awarded through the Department of Human Services, Illinois Gateways to Opportunity platform.

Additionally, Ms. Lewis worked with us at S.E.E.D. as a temporary summer employee holding a Business Development Associate position and reported to the Program Director. As an employee, she was always punctual and had excellent attendance. During her time on our team, Ms. Lewis demonstrated excellent time-management, multi-tasking, and prioritization skills. She worked very well in our team environment and made a valuable contribution to every project. She is also a great wordsmith and proofreader.

Ms. Lewis is currently employed in clothing retail and is continuing her post-secondary education.

Meet Lia, a senior culinary student who began her work with LeBakery in May 2023. Lia's work includes preparing desserts: cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and pastries. Her experience in this fast-paced bakery has been nothing short of amazing. Working 20+ hours weekly, Lia has gone from observer to baker in a few short months. Lia lights up when talking about her work experience, and her supervisor mentioned her positive attitude and strong ability to take direction. She is working on iced sugar cookies and a multi-tiered wedding cake. Lia plans to enter a college culinary program upon graduating in May 2024. Her long-term goal is to open her bakery someday. Peoria Public Schools is proud of you, Lia!

From the moment I started my journey as a Desktop Support Apprentice (or Information Systems Apprentice) at Northwestern Medicine, the decision to choose this path became increasingly evident. Being an apprentice in such a high-priority healthcare institution was about gaining technical skills and immersing myself in an environment that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to patient care. The primary reason for pursuing an apprenticeship was the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between things I learned in school (at the College of DuPage) between knowledge and practical application.

Northwestern Medicine strongly emphasizes hands-on experience, allowing apprentices (like me) to work directly with cutting-edge technologies and real-world challenges. This dynamic approach enhances technical skills and fosters a deeper understanding of the healthcare industry’s needs. In desktop support, my experiences ranged from troubleshooting hardware and software issues to implementing system upgrades seamlessly.

The mentorship provided by seasoned professionals ensured a steady learning curve, allowing me to grow in confidence and competence. Working with experts in the field accelerated my technical proficiency and exposed me to the critical role desktop support plays in maintaining the hospital’s day-to-day operations. I feel like I’m already growing at an alarming rate; pretty soon, I feel like I will be able to find the solution to anything in the realm of my department’s abilities.

Collaboration was a cornerstone of my experience as an apprentice at NM. The healthcare environment demands a high level of teamwork, and my role allowed me to interface with various departments, from nursing to administration. I’ve worked on numerous projects with people on other teams, like managing Apple products and developing ideas for healthcare providers to maintain a steady and productive workflow. I’ve also worked with Networkers, Systems Engineers, Sound Design, and Cybersecurity teams. This cross-functional collaboration not only broadened my understanding of the healthcare system but also honed my communication skills, showed me a whole new side of IT, and made me start to come up with ideas about which branch of IT I would want to pursue.

The work environment at Northwestern Medicine is very positive and friendly. The energy within the IT department is excellent, driven by a shared commitment to excellence and a passion for leveraging technology to enhance patient care. In retrospect, choosing to be a Desktop Support Apprentice at Northwestern Medicine was a transformative decision but a pivotal step in terms of what I want to pursue.

James Lovell is 19 years old and lives in rural Cass County with a family of seven, including four siblings. He met the criteria for a low-income participant when he graduated high school in May 2022. A few months later, he began working part-time at McDonald’s in Beardstown, Illinois, earning $13.00 an hour. With no other formal training and after seeing the quality of care provided to one of his family members, James decided he also wanted to begin pursuing a career in the healthcare field. He chose to start with Basic Nurse Assistant (CNA) training at Midwest Technical Institute (MTI).

Living in Chandlerville, Illinois while MTI is in Springfield, Illinois, James traveled over 88 miles round trip each day back and forth to Springfield for his training. Fortunately, support services with mileage help offset his daily gas expenses to eliminate this barrier.

He finished training with a 92% and passed his state board exam on the first attempt within two weeks of completing his training. On-the-job training options were explored. However, James wasted no time with his job search and began searching for employment opportunities before completing his training.
He began employment as a CNA approximately five weeks after that, working full-time for Heritage Health in Jacksonville, IL. His starting pay rate was $7.00 more per hour than his hourly rate at enrollment.

Jasmin Foster, at the age of 23, lives in Jonesboro, IL, and was approved for the WIOA Program to pursue a license in the Truck Driving Program in Fall 2022 at Shawnee Community College. Jasmin chose this career path to pick herself up and do something productive to provide for her two little boys. The short class with an excellent reward and pay greatly influenced her decision.

Jasmin states, “The WIOA Program gave me an opportunity I will never forget. Without this program, I could not have attended Shawnee College and enrolled in Truck Driving. I will forever be grateful for the program itself as well as the people who are a part of it.” The program helped her focus on school without worrying about finances. Right after receiving her CDL, Jasmin went to work for Ready Mix Solutions. Jasmin says that “my work experience with Ready Mix Solutions is much more than just driving a truck. I am responsible for delivering and pouring a perishable item within a certain time frame. I have been able to apply my quick-thinking skills and professionalism as I work closely with contractors and civilians to complete jobs well and promptly.”

“I still receive SNAP benefits for my boys, but the amount has decreased significantly since starting my new profession. I am happy to say that I will no longer need them at the rate I am moving.”

“I am indebted to the WIOA program for helping me to get to where I am today. I am proud to say that I thrive in a male-dominated field and earn lots of respect. I love my new career, and I’m thrilled with my choice to enroll in the Shawnee Community College Tuck Driving program”. Jasmin also wants to extend her appreciation to the Shawnee Development Council, Inc. WIOA Program by saying, “Thank you.”

Franchesca connected with the Youth Job Center (YJC) through the Chicago Community Learning Center (CCLC) in the Fall of 2022. Franchesca dreams of becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) after recently completing her associate’s degree; she is ready to begin earning her credentials in the healthcare field. She came to YJC prepared to secure her healthcare certifications to pursue her career.

Franchesca initially decided to pursue a career in healthcare because of her daughter. She hopes her career will help her better understand children’s health, allowing her to care for her daughter when she is sick. Franchesca currently works in a healthcare setting, helping people with various conditions. She loves her job because she gets to help and care for people every day. Franchesca prides herself on being a continuous learner and loves working in an industry where she continuously learns new things and expands her knowledge.

We know Franchesca will excel within the healthcare industry, as her biggest strengths are empathy and understanding. She is a people person, and her personality and compassion make her excellent at her work. She is working hard to gain the experience and licenses needed to become a Pediatric Nurse.

Keep up the great work, Franchesca!

The Gary Comer Youth Center (GCYC) Culinary Apprenticeship, a two-year program where young people can explore Culinary Arts as a career path, inaugurated a new cohort during the Summer of 2023 with more spots. Created to give youth (aged 16-24) a chance to get hands-on experience and take their first steps in a possible career in the Culinary Arts, the apprenticeship gives young people a solid skill set base, starting with getting their food handler’s certification, followed by boot camps to hone their culinary skills (knife cuts, baking, savory cooking etc), all while collaborating with the regular operations of the Youth Center – free meal program to all members and a catering operation. Since the beginning of summer, the apprentices supported the preparation of over 7,000 meals and many community outreach events, such as GCYC’s annual benefit, the Comer Tours Benefit.

In addition to that, by connecting with local food businesses, the new cohort was able to experience different sides of the food industry and learn from experienced chefs, such as Head Chef Anthony and Pastry Chef Elaine, from Truth Be Told Tavern inside The Study at the University of Chicago and Stephanie Hart, owner of Brown Sugar Bakery. These partnerships allowed the apprentices to understand how a new menu item is developed, from conception to execution, and advance their culinary skills with demos and practical activities led by the guest chefs.

Having opened its doors in June 2006, the state-of-the-art Gary Comer Youth Center offers positive extracurricular alternatives in a welcoming and safe environment. The mission is to support our youth to graduate from high school prepared to pursue college and careers. Located on Chicago’s South Side, the Gary Comer Youth Center draws its primary membership from the youth residing on the South Side of Chicago, focusing on Grand Crossing residents. GCYC is the oldest and largest institution on the Comer Education Campus, including our organizational partners, Gary Comer College Prep High School, the South Shore Drill Team, and Gary Comer Middle School.

Roderic Gatewood Sr., at the age of 43, lives in Mounds, IL, and worked at the City of Mounds as a municipal water maintenance worker. He worked 55-60 hours a week and did not have time or opportunity to get a CDL. The opportunity and time finally presented itself, so he applied and was approved for the WIOA Program. He completed the Truck Driving Program at Shawnee Community College in the Fall 2022 semester. In achieving his occupational goal of being a Truck Driver, he can now focus on obtaining full-time permanent employment at a self-sufficient wage. Roderic stated that being in the WIOA Program helped him focus on school and not worry about finances. He says that it is a fantastic program. The program leaves you with no excuse for not attending college and learning a trade or acquiring a degree.

Two months after completing this program, Roderic was hired to drive a truck for Mounds Oil-Dri Production Company. Roderic says, “I have enjoyed every day since, and I work with a great group of people in a great atmosphere. I haul clay from the ODC clay mine to the production plant in Mounds. It’s a very safe environment, and I am constantly learning daily. I love this job!”

Roderic had been drawing unemployment, but now, he can support himself better due to receiving a good-paying job. Roderic says, “I have a good career because of the WIOA Program. I am grateful Shawnee College offers such a program and several other trade profession courses, i.e., welding, HVAC, and many more. I hope the different programs continue to be available for the public benefit of the surrounding counties. Thanks to Mr. Victor Duckworth and Ms. Sandy of Shawnee Development in Karnak for all their assistance, Mrs. Leslie Weldon, Jaqueline Smith, and Mr. Kelly Jennings of Shawnee College!”

Jennifer came to Livingston Workforce Services looking for financial support as she attends school to become a Registered Nurse (RN). She had already qualified for financial aid, including PELL and MAP, which covered the cost of her tuition and books; however, she needed assistance paying for gas to attend classes. As a single mother with five children, Jennifer worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and received SNAP benefits. While attending school, Jennifer excelled in her classes, making Heartland Community College’s Dean’s List nearly every semester and being inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. To help her stay afloat while taking classes through the WIOA program, she received gas reimbursement and funds to cover supplies required for her clinical courses. A portion of her mortgage was paid for through the WIOA program to help maintain housing for her family. In May 2023, Jennifer completed her Associate Degree in Nursing at Heartland Community College. Over the summer, she passed the NCLEX-RN exam and was promoted at her current employer to a Registered Nurse. As a result, Jennifer is now able to support her family financially!

In a world where the tech industry continues to evolve at breakneck speed, five ambitious individuals decided to take their future into their own hands. They enrolled in National Able Network’s Cisco Apprenticeship training program. Their dedication and hard work led them to the doors of one of the world’s leading technology companies, Cisco Meraki.
Meet Darius, Lori, Izaiah, and Pedro – five individuals with a shared dream of securing a place in the thriving world of technology. Their journey began with a rigorous training program, but little did they know that this was only the beginning of their success story.
Upon successful completion of training via IT Career Lab, during which they worked directly with Cisco Meraki engineers, the company sought these five aspiring tech professionals. The participants demonstrated their deep commitment to learning, adaptability, and relentless work ethic, making them the ideal candidates for an internship at Cisco Meraki.
Their journey into the company brought them exciting rewards right from the start. Each intern was offered a competitive hourly wage of $28 and a generous $7,500 signing bonus paid out during their first month on the job.
The benefits didn’t stop there. Cisco Meraki demonstrated its commitment to the well-being of its employees by offering comprehensive medical benefits that covered the interns and their families, ensuring their health and peace of mind. Paid holidays were provided to encourage a healthy work-life balance, and the ability to accrue time off ensured that the interns could take a breather when needed.
As they delved into their internship roles, these five promising talents were exposed to cutting-edge technology and innovation. They gained hands-on experience in networking, cloud-based solutions, and security under the mentorship of some of the brightest minds in the industry. Their growth was nurtured, and their creativity was encouraged, helping them evolve into professionals of the highest caliber.

Fair-Rite Products, Inc. of Flat Rock, a global leader in Ferrite product development and production, has harnessed the power of Lean manufacturing principles to revolutionize its operations. The results? A remarkable reduction in lead time from order-to-order completion, the elimination of wasteful motions and inventory, an unprecedented boost in efficiency, and a significant reduction in turnaround time when transitioning between products.

This transformative training has set Fair-Rite on a steadfast path to success, equipping them to seamlessly handle increased workloads, safeguarding their esteemed reputation, and solidifying their preeminent position in the industry. As they evolve and adapt, they are well-poised to meet the surging service demand.

With implementation of updated processes, Fair-Rite has achieved a remarkable feat – a streamlined order fulfillment process that frees up valuable time in their day and enables them to readily accept new contracts, all without the strain of overtime work and the accompanying increase in overhead costs. This is the success story of Fair-Rite Products, Inc., an industry leader setting the standard for excellence and growth.

The Integrated Business Services Team (IBST) in East Central Illinois was recently organized and met in person for the first time in September of 2023. In collaboration with Apprenticeship Illinois, the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission coordinates local stakeholders and partners in the workforce development system to improve employers' engagement and deliver business services. Representatives from the East Central Illinois Workforce Board, Illinois Department of Employment Security, Illinois Department of Human Service Division of Rehabilitation Services, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, Parkland College, and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity Regional Economic Development Team attended the first meeting. Members of the local IBST are participating in strategic planning over the fall and early spring to implement the foundational elements and structural components of an IBST that the Illinois Workforce Investment Board suggested.

In Quarter 3 of 2023, local partners (East Central Illinois Workforce Board, Champaign County Regional Planning Commission, Parkland College, IMEC, and Jobs for the Future) collaborated with Apprenticeship Illinois to host an "apprenticeship accelerator" for area employers. The event presented information on registered apprenticeships, the workforce development system, and training providers. The event was well-attended, and many employers were interested in follow-up conversations.

In Champaign County, the community is invested in digital literacy and broadband expansion. With investments in related infrastructure needs, employers contacted the workforce development system for help navigating apprenticeships. Supported by the East Central Illinois Workforce Board and Apprenticeship Illinois, Volo worked with Parkland College to design and launch a Fiber Optics Technician Registered Apprenticeship. The first cohort participated during Quarter 3 of 2023, with some participants being supported using Incumbent Worker Training funds from the Workforce Board.

Three Z, in Teutopolis, recently purchased a 300 CMC (Continuous Motion Cartoner) magazine insert machine, which expedites individually inserting magazine additions or outsourcing to another business. They aim to complete all printing, inserts, packaging, and mailing directly to the customer. This piece of equipment is part of their ongoing plan. Since purchasing this equipment, they attended training for technicians to know how to run, troubleshoot, and maintain it. The equipment manufacturer provided training onsite at the Three Z facility. Training was vital for the equipment to serve its purpose to the company. After the training, employees can use this equipment, saving the company money and time to no longer outsource steps from order to delivery, making the employees more marketable, and keeping the company competitive globally. Nine employees were upskilled through this training, potentially leading to promotions, wage increases, and opening vacancies in their staff tier to be filled by new employees, growing the company.

Heartland Community College, in Normal, IL, is home to the nation’s first Associate of Applied Science degree in Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology. In June 2023, Heartland hosted an EV Open House for employers, Illinois automotive technology faculty, and state agency representatives. The event included an EV employer panel, a discussion of collaborating to scale EV programs across the state, and exercises to identify top priorities for an emerging collaboration.

Following the open house, five institutions joined efforts to pursue a 2-year, $1.5 million U.S. Department of Energy Ride and Drive workforce development grant, with Governors State University as the project lead. The resulting Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Workforce and Education Exchange (EVIWEX) will develop a short-term EV Infrastructure Installer/Technician (EVIIT) training program. The training initially developed at Heartland Community College—in collaboration with the NSF ATE Center for Renewable Energy Education (CREATE) at Madison Area Technical College (WI) and the NSF ATE National Electric Vehicle Consortium (NEVC) at Indian River State College (FL) — will be adapted through additional collaboration with industry and project partners and scaled to collaborator institutions. The training will meet the Illinois Commerce Commission requirements and satisfy the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Standards and Requirements. The installer training program will also be available as a 1-year construction laborer U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeship.

The EVIIT training program will build a diverse, highly skilled talent pipeline to the Illinois workforce that installs, maintains, and operates EV charging infrastructure under the supervision of qualified journey electricians. Individuals who complete the EVIIT training will be positioned to meet entry criteria to upskill in three-year journey electrician apprenticeships or academic programs.

Cesar Velazques is a former active-duty who was discharged due to medical complications. Upon his return to Illinois, his wife, Rosa Trejo, also a participant in one of the programs offered at the Urban League, requested that he partake in the Job Training Economic & Development Program (JTED) to gain adequate professional skills. Cesar visited our office and inquired information about the programs that we were offering. He decided to enroll in JTED. The participant and I scheduled an in-person meeting to discuss his interest in the program.

When we met to discuss his interest in the program in detail, the client expressed his interest in other industries for professional development. I provided the client with a brief overview of JTED, the eligibility requirements, training services, employability/job readiness, and the placement progress. I relayed to the client the two pathways this program provides at the end of it. A participant can either become certified in Customer Service or Lift Truck. We completed the application with the client, and I asked the client to identify areas in which he could need assistance. The client told me he was on the verge of becoming homeless.

When the client was discharged from the military, they lost their apartment and had to move in with his wife’s family. The conditions under which they were living were not conducive to stability. They were not able to have adequate space or privacy as a couple. They were constantly misunderstanding each other, which always led to altercations. Unfortunately, they were asked to vacate the premises by the end of September. This was devastating for the participant to process. After discussing the client, I sympathized with him and expressed that I would assist him in the best way possible. I explained to the client that our program had allocated funds to assist participants facing this hardship. I requested that the client brings in all the required document to submit a request for rental assistance.

After several days, the client and his wife needed help looking for an apartment. They came into the office and requested that I aid them. We were looking for apartments and studios in the same city to make it easier for the participant to commodity as this was their preference. Luckily, we were able to find a one-bedroom apartment. The client contacted the landlord and set up a visit to the apartment. Moreover, the client visited the apartment and provided the landlord with all the documentation needed to complete the application process.

I met with the client, who submitted all the requested paperwork for approval. After presenting the paperwork, the client informed me that the landlord required the deposit to secure the apartment for them. I told the client once the paperwork he submitted is reviewed and approved, I will call him as soon as possible. The next day, the deposit check will be forwarded to the landlord.

The client was overjoyed to hear this news. He mentioned that he was concerned with not being able to go through the program and complete it. I assured the client the goal of this program is to aid him in continuous professional development and training. The goal is to work cohesively to determine areas that need attention. Once we identify those areas, we educate ourselves and prepare for the opportunities. We must be well-equipped for the career that we desire to enter. The client is attending Lift Truck and has completed all the training requirements.

Tyler Spillie is a participant enrolled in the Job Training Economy and Development (JTED). I have seen tremendous accomplishments from the client as he was previously enrolled in one of the Quad County Urban League programs a few years ago. He returned for professional growth because he believed in our mission. The client received Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Employability Job Readiness session, and safety training. These trainings were based on the clear identification of areas needing improvement. It aided the client in excelling in applying skills and developing new ones.

Moreover, this preparation allowed him to join the Nicor Gas Academy, where he completed his work-based learning experience. Upon completing his work-based learning, he applied for a position with the company through the Quad County Urban League's partnership. Furthermore, he was selected for an interview and eventually was hired as a locator. This was such a significant achievement in the participant's career journey. I am proud of all the accomplishments and determination the client has shown since he enrolled in JTED.

Obtaining the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) credential created a holistic, physical, mental, and spiritual chain reaction inside me. This credential not only led to a promotion that seemed both improbable and richly deserved but also an uplifting experience/achievement that continues to fuel me internally each day. Obtaining this credential gave me purpose and motivates me daily to try my best and that there is still more enlightenment to experience. Even though obtaining this credential came with a slight wage increase, my main objective was to accomplish something to prove to myself that I am not done experiencing life.

I was happy for the opportunity to challenge myself by taking this class and obtaining the Certified Recovery Support Specialist certification. The motivating factor was knowing that getting this knowledge and skills would serve and enhance the lives of so many. Having a lived experience and understanding of the reality of life after addiction and now being a success story made me much more determined to acquire this certification and start changing lives. In addition to being educated, the class allowed me to hear different opinions, experiences, and stories of survival, which raised my awareness and made me more prepared for future challenges I might face while assisting others. I was given many tools. I learned so much about dual diagnosis that I wasn’t aware of. Also, once I passed the exam, my organization gave me a raise in pay, which was very much needed, and I will be expanding my case management role, which I am very much looking forward to.

Scarlett O’Neal joined the St. Clair County WIOA Youth Program, hoping to get a second chance at her education. Scarlett struggled with focusing and staying on task throughout her academic career and had no way to manage her ADHD symptoms, and she dropped out by the time she reached 11th grade. Scarlett came into the program with a plan. She first wanted to gain job skills, and most importantly, she tried to remedy her drop-out status and give education another shot by getting her High School Equivalency (formerly known as GED). While her strife with mental health and personal hardships have complicated her journey to success, Scarlett’s end goal is simple: she wants to be a Park Ranger. At the beginning of February 2022, Scarlett began her Paid Work Experience at The Weingarten, a restaurant and event venue in Belleville, IL. Initially, she solely worked on event staff duties, but after just one month, she could move up and work alongside the kitchen staff. This was very exciting for Scarlett as one of her passions is cooking. However, it wasn’t easy to get into kitchen duties. Initially, Scarlett struggled to keep up with the fast-paced environment and perform essential kitchen functions. Staying organized also proved difficult when she showed up to work on a Sunday only to find out she wasn’t scheduled that day. But it has all been a part of the process, and Scarlett proves to herself every day that if she can do better than the day before, she is on track. Scarlett completed her pre-registration steps at Southwestern Illinois College to begin HSE classes in the Fall. She begins classes on August 22nd. Although her story is not over as a WIOA Youth Participant, Scarlett’s consistent and outstanding progress is a testament that every step towards success– no matter how big or small– is an accomplishment.

Boyd had been laid off on May 22, 2020, from his job as a Light Equipment Operator at LSC Communications when the plant closed. He had been scheduled to attend a rapid response meeting at his place of employment, but it was canceled due to the Covid 19 epidemic, so he needed to know his options. In the meantime, Boyd was drawing UI benefits while unsuccessfully searching for employment in his field. At the height of the COVID-19 epidemic, there were no jobs. At this time, Boyd heard about the WIOA program and came to the office to inquire about eligibility for training. Boyd had not graduated high school, but when he learned he could only get a degree by first getting his GED, he decided to do something about that. Boyd returned to the workforce center two months later with GED in hand! More than a year after he was laid off, he found out he was eligible for retraining when the LSC Communications plant closure was deemed a trade-related event. He attended a rapid response online meeting to determine his options and took this opportunity to get his AAS for IT-Network Administration. Boyd enrolled in training to meet his career goals and received an AAS in IT-Network Administration degree from Lake Land College in August 2023. He loved school, which he never thought possible. He is now employed at Eastern Illinois Area of Special Education as an IT Administrator, making $25 an hour, significantly increasing his earning potential due to his participation in training. He received services from the CEFS Economic Opportunity Corporation WIOA/TAA program to pay for Occupational Classroom Training, tuition, books, and travel reimbursement for transportation costs. Boyd says he is so grateful for the opportunity he was given and always thought his whole life was to do factory work. He is now doing a job he loves and has the flexibility to do more than just ‘work’ and achieve a better work/life balance. Boyd now realizes that what at the time seemed devastating turned out to have been a blessing in disguise!

Michael had been laid off on May 24, 2020, from his job as an operator at LSC Communications when the plant closed. He had been scheduled to attend a rapid response meeting at his place of employment, but it was canceled due to the Covid 19 epidemic, so he needed to know his options. In the meantime, Michael found work as a dietary aid in long-term care, but it was not meeting his needs for self-sufficient employment. Michael had his first child on the way and was becoming more concerned about being able to support his growing family. More than a year after he was laid off, he found out he was eligible for retraining when the LSC Communications plant closure was deemed a trade-related event. He attended a rapid response online meeting to determine his options and took this opportunity to get his AAS for IT-Network Administration. Michael enrolled in training to meet his career goals and received an AAS in IT-Network Administration degree from Lake Land College in May 2023. He received services from the CEFS Economic Opportunity Corporation WIOA program to pay for Occupational Classroom Training, tuition, books, and TAA travel reimbursement for transportation costs. He is now employed at Lake Land College as a Technical Support Specialist and has dramatically increased his earning potential due to his participation in training. Michael is grateful for his opportunity for training; without it, he would not have been able to work in a career he loves.

Rend Lake College and Continental Tire welcomed a new batch of apprentices Friday who are taking advantage of this rewarding program bolstering the Southern Illinois workforce.
Officials with CTA and RLC held a press conference to recognize the 14 apprentices in the program for the Fall 2023 semester. One is a new apprentice in the Information Technology program. Nine are in their second year of the Industrial Electronics and Maintenance Technician program, and another seven are in their third year on the INEL track. It’s the largest group of CTA fall apprentices since it was offered eight years ago. With the inclusion of this new group, the total count of CTA apprentices in the program has reached an impressive 31. 
RLC President Terry Wilkerson congratulated the apprentices, along with their family members and loved ones who were there to support them. “We are proud of our students,” Wilkerson said. “It’s our job to ensure they get a good quality education, and we do that through partnerships like [Continental Tire].”
This was the first year CTA welcomed new apprentices and workers in such a grand fashion at the Mt. Vernon plant. The event included refreshments, a tour of the plant, and an appearance from State Representative Dave Severin. He has hope that, with this apprenticeship opportunity at Continental Tire, young people will see the value of staying in Southern Illinois. He said partnerships between industry and education like this lead to success and endless possibilities.
Since 2015, CTA and RLC have partnered to provide the apprenticeship opportunity. At its core, the apprenticeship initiative bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world experiences. Under the guidance of on-the-job mentors, apprentices receive hands-on opportunities to hone their technical expertise and gain insights into Continental Tire's processes.
Nick Pearce, the Plant Manager of Continental Tire in Mt. Vernon, expressed the importance of manufacturing and industrial engineering apprenticeships like the one offered at RLC and the value they hold in the future of Southern Illinois and beyond. He praised RLC for always going in with an open mind, constantly looking toward the next step, and finding ways to do better for the community and its students.
“Continental Tire shares Rend Lake College’s belief that apprenticeship is an investment in our future workforce in Southern Illinois,” said RLC Director of Apprenticeships, Community, & Corporate Education Tonya Odum. “Apprenticeship directly addresses skill shortages through tailored training programs. This not only fills immediate job vacancies but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of the workforce, enhancing the overall productivity of our region.”

Continental Tire (CT) has offered an apprenticeship program in coordination with Rend Lake College (RLC) since 2015. Tonya Odum, the Director of Apprenticeships, Community, and Corporate Education at RLC, said, “We are thrilled to collaborate with area industry to offer apprenticeship opportunities because it aligns with our mission of fostering workforce development and preparing students for successful careers. […] We look forward to starting the Fall 2023 Apprenticeship cohort with Continental Tire!”

The Dual Education System's practice is based on the German Apprenticeship model, which CT founded; this model gained global recognition for its successful combination of practical work placements, theory, and hands-on application with academic training. Continental Tire believes these apprenticeships are not only beneficial for the company but also set up new employees for success.

Brody Wilson had nothing but positive things to say, “This Fall, fifteen new Rend Lake College students will embark on the apprenticeship program at Continental Tire. As newly enrolled apprentices, they can look forward to a well-structured and supportive hands-on learning experience, complementing their on-campus studies and focusing on developing essential skills and knowledge in the Industrial Electronics and Maintenance field. […] Within Continental Tire’s collaborative and supportive atmosphere, teamwork and knowledge sharing are encouraged, allowing apprentices to collaborate with experienced professionals in real-world scenarios.”

Q: Why did you choose to pursue a career as a Medical Assistant?
A: I chose to become a Medical Assistant because I have always wanted to work in healthcare and help people. Being in the healthcare field is the best way for me to care for others.

Q: What did you do before working for Shawnee Health?
A: Before working for Shawnee Health, I was a part-time secretary for a local church. Since it was part-time, I was able to focus on my apprenticeship.

Q: How did you learn about the apprenticeship?
A: My mother works for Shawnee Health and received an email about the new apprenticeship program through Shawnee; she told me about the new program, and I jumped at the opportunity.

Q: How has the apprenticeship experience been beneficial?
A: The apprenticeship allowed me to practice what I was learning as I learned it. When you can learn and then experience what you learned about firsthand, it helps you better understand.

Q: What advice would you give a new apprentice?
A: I advise any new apprentice to pay attention and try to learn as much as possible. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Be willing to try new things and learn from others.

Growing up in Pilsen, Alan Rodriguez saw his parents working hard in the hospitality industry. His mother and father were employed at a chain restaurant, enduring long hours, inadequate pay, various complicated characters, and even fear. College wasn’t a financial option for Alan, but that didn’t stop him from wanting a career. Right after high school, Alan started working at McCormick Place, where his father had his second job, setting up meeting rooms and cleaning the building. A manager later offered Alan a better-paid position as a porter. “I loved the energy.” Alan saw that a hospitality job could be good and quickly realized he wanted to be in the kitchen.

Even though he enjoyed the new position, Alan had not given up on his dream of a career and started looking into apprenticeship programs. Fortunately, Alan was involved with his union, UNITE HERE Local 1, and learned about the opportunity to apply for a spot in the second cohort of UHCHI’s Culinary Apprenticeship. Alan was thrilled when he learned that UHCHI did not require a U.S. birth certificate and looked forward to the career opportunity before him. “I was excited to learn about the correct terms in the kitchen, nutrition, and the right temperatures for food.”

He smiled, “I was excited because I was going to learn how to play with fire.” Alan’s excitement also came with some apprehension. He felt nervous because it seemed like the other applicants and his future coworkers had years of experience in the kitchen when he had none. But Alan found a supportive community at UHCHI. “My fellow apprentices gave me a lot of support since they had previous culinary experience. They would tell me or show me when I didn’t understand,” said Alan. “Chef Victor felt like my mentor. Any question, he was always there. He would check on me and make sure I did stuff right. He put a lot of time and energy into me. I always had that support.”

UHCHI built Alan’s confidence and career trajectory. Alan was placed with Compass Levy at the United Center for on-the-job training. After just two years, he helps prepare food for both Bulls and Blackhawks players and is slated to become a Cook I next season. He feels proud of being a graduate of the Apprenticeship program and confident in the skills he learned at UHCHI. His coworkers at the United Center recognize his expertise, “People come up to me for help. I’m fortunate enough to have an answer when they ask me questions. It makes me feel confident.” As a graduate of UHCHI’s Culinary Apprenticeship, Alan is now one of the first Culinary Journeyworkers in Illinois and holds five certifications. When reflecting on how UHCHI impacted his future, Alain said, “Where I grew up, sometimes the environment didn’t promote following your dreams. Sometimes young people don’t understand what’s possible until their late 20s. With UHCHI, you realize you could turn this into a career. You have places to go from here. It’s a great opportunity because it will open doors and maybe some folks’ eyes. Added Alan, “UHCHI prepared me well. There’s always something to learn in the kitchen. No matter how much you know, you still learn something.

Jenny Heather (Regional Human Resource Manager at Caterpillar), an East Central Illinois Workforce Board member, worked with Parkland College to design and launch a first-of-its-kind Warehouse Associate Registered Apprenticeship Program! Warehouse workers attended classes offsite at Parkland College. They completed four courses: Career and Technical Ethics, Supply Chain Management, Warehouse Operations, and Introduction to Business. The first cohort graduated in March 2023. Over 200 Caterpillar employees were in attendance to celebrate, along with representatives from Parkland College, East Central Illinois workNet, Champaign County Regional Planning Commission, and Apprenticeship Illinois. The work done in Champaign, Illinois, helped to impact a global company!

Illinois Eastern Community Colleges and Clay County Hospital are partnering to create the first U.S. Department of Labor-Registered Nursing Apprenticeship in Illinois designed to take students from a high school diploma to an associate in nursing degree. Plans to create the apprenticeship began in December 2022 as Clay County Hospital reached out to the IECC Nursing Program to increase student opportunities to transition into nursing. The IECC Board of Trustees finalized the agreement.

IECC Associate Dean of Allied Health Alani Frederick said, “The nursing apprenticeship program is a very innovative next step in nursing education in Illinois. What will benefit our students is that they will receive a quality education at Illinois Eastern Community Colleges and be immersed in the world of healthcare through the apprenticeship hours they will have at Clay County Hospital. This will help those students be ready to transition successfully to a career in nursing at the end of the apprenticeship.”

Entry into the apprenticeship is a two-step process. First, students must be accepted into the IECC Nursing Program at Frontier Community College, Lincoln Trail College, Olney Central College, or Wabash Valley College. Then, they must apply to Clay County Hospital. Clay County Hospital Clinical Educator and Registered Nurse Kamy Vail said the partnership is a win-win for the hospital and students looking to enter nursing.

“We all know we’re in a nursing shortage, especially after COVID-19, so we have to get new, innovative ways to bring in nurses to the hospital,” Vail explained. “The nursing apprenticeship program will be able to support students financially throughout their educational journey. In exchange for meeting the apprenticeship requirements, Clay County Hospital is prepared to pay for items such as tuition, fees, books, and uniforms in addition to the hourly wage the student will earn as part of the apprenticeship program. When they graduate from the nursing program and pass their NCLEX, they will be licensed as a registered nurse in the state of Illinois and will come out with a full-time job at Clay County Hospital, with wonderful benefits and full-time hours.” During the apprenticeship, students must work only one 12-hour shift a week. “It’s a minimal work requirement so that they can focus on their schooling and to make sure they succeed in the nursing program,” Vail added. Frederick hopes the financial incentives tied to the apprenticeship will enable more students to pursue a nursing degree. “We are hoping when finances are not in the picture, they will apply since that piece will be taken care of,” she said. OCC Interim President Roger Eddy said the apprenticeship exemplifies the continued cooperation between IECC and the community. “I want to congratulate Alani Fredrick and the administration at Clay County Hospital for coming up with a creative way to solve a critical issue,” he said. “It shows that we have partners that work with us in our area hospitals who look for innovative ways to solve a critical nursing shortage in our area.”

For more information on applying to the IECC Nursing Program, contact Advisor Linda Horn at 618-395-7777, ext. 2246, or email hornl@iecc.edu. Apprenticeship applications will be available on the Clay County Hospital website at www.claycountyhospital.org. Watch the Nursing Apprenticeship video.

On Saturday, May 13th, Rend Lake College held its Commencement Ceremony for the graduating class of 2023. Among the graduates were three individuals who went through the Rend Lake College Apprenticeship Program. Kyle Garrison of Mt Vernon, Zack Leschke of West Frankfort, and John Simpkins (pictured) of Hurst, IL, all received an Associates of Applied Science in Industrial Electronics and Maintenance. This degree sets them up to be an immediate asset to their employers and opens the door to further education if they choose to continue earning a Bachelor’s degree.

Leschke and Simpkins were both Apprentices at Continental Tire in Mt. Vernon, IL, whereas Garrison was an Apprentice at North American Lighting in Salem, IL. The two companies believe there is great value in establishing an Apprenticeship Program to fuel their talent pipeline needs. They continue to partner with Rend Lake College today to bring the apprenticeship opportunity to more individuals throughout southern Illinois.

Jaylne and Jada Perry are twin sisters whose been enrolled in the YWCA’s Workforce Program, CompTIA A+, since July 2022. Before enrolling in the program, Jaylne and Jada attended Harold Washington for Computer Science and were already studying the field when they came across YWCA’s CompTIA+ program. Jaylne and Jada understood that CompTIA A+ is the starting point for a career in IT and focuses on job roles like help desk technician and technical support specialist. Jaylne and Jada were prepared to take on the challenge and roles in the IT Industry.

After completing the program, both sisters were commissioned to perform a six-week WEX (Work Experience) with Net Telligence Group. While at Net Telligence, both sisters were able to take a deep dive into the IT field by working on various computers and troubleshooting various problems. They excelled at Net Telligence, and now the owner seeks to hire the dynamic duo. While Jaylne has aspirations of working for an airline, Jada is figuring out her niche in the IT field. Both sisters shared that the CompTIA ITF and A+ program was exciting and gave them the jump start they needed.

Before coming to Midwest Career Source (MCS), I worked at Gateway Regional Hospital as a Patient Sitter. I was unhappy with my job and was looking for something new. I contacted Robin, the HR Director of MCS, who told me about the upcoming CNA/Psychiatric Technician training program. I felt relieved because I already knew I wanted to be in nursing. Once I met the MCS Family, they changed my life. Not only was I getting help with school, but everyone was there for me physically and mentally as I started my new journey. I think the difference it made in my life is that it made me appreciate stuff more, take my time with things, and do one thing at a time. My plans for the future are to start the LPN program and RN school and always keep a clear mindset.

Thanks,
Asasha H.

Teens Against Killing Everywhere (TAKE) has been working in East Saint Louis, Illinois, and surrounding areas for 30+ years. What began as a modest effort to address missing maintenance hole covers and broken streetlights in the Emerson Park neighborhood of East St. Louis has become one of the Metro East community's largest and most proactive community-based organizations.

The mission of Teens Against Killing Everywhere is to assist the residents of the Emerson Park neighborhood and its surrounding communities in achieving their full human potential by offering high-quality programs in three areas:

1. Housing and Economic Development
2. Education and Job Training
3. Community Advocacy

Fenandez "Dez" Mosley came to TAKE in the Summer of 2022 for the first Career Pathways program our agency ever implemented. When he completed the intake process, Fenandez showed enthusiasm, grit, and a deep desire to change his life. His goal was simple: he wanted to earn a trade and a job that would allow him to leverage his natural ability to build things and his communication and business acumen. Dez showed up on day one with a great attitude. He learned all that he could learn from anyone in our building. He was here regularly--only missing one day to take an exam that would earn him an additional credential. He was a high achiever.

Daily, Fenandez would excel in the classroom portion of his program. He earned the highest score possible in the academic setting. In the project-based section of the program, Dez was a natural leader who often took time to assist his brother, who suffered from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). He showed great care and concern for his classmates, who all considered him their leader and guide.

On the internship portion of the program, his worksite, C.A. Jones Home Builders, quickly noticed Dez and offered him employment four weeks before completing his internship. Shortly after that, Dez applied for and was accepted to the Union.

Fenandez is a prime example of how valuable workforce programs are to individuals with strong drive and determination but who want to avoid going the traditional route! Youth Career Pathways was the catalyst to help Dez change his life.

He often stops by to speak to students and works in collaboration with our instructors to make coursework engaging. We look forward to seeing all that is in store for Mr. Mosley.

My experience with Homework Hangout Club's Youth Career Pathways program was very positive and essential to me being where I am today. I first entered the program when I had little to no motivation to progress through school, let alone attend school. Once I started focusing and trying hard, the paperwork and work the program offers became easier and easier. I learned many real-world skills during my time in the program, and in some cases, I still use the knowledge in my everyday life. Working with the other people at the Center improves your experience and helps with motivation. It feels like a big family at Homework Hangout Club (HHC)! I recommend this program to anyone seeking help, having issues with high school, or looking to build upon their work or life skills.

Clarissa Smith has always been passionate about caring for infants and toddlers. In April 2022, she came to Community Assistance Programs (CAPS) to express her desire to work with infants and toddlers.

Arelia, the Customized Training Coordinator (CTC) at CAPs, went over the Childcare Program, and Clarissa said this is exactly what she is looking for. She enrolled in the Childcare Program through CAPS, and from day one of her first class, she consistently reported how grateful she was for getting into the Childcare Program. The training provider always gave rave reviews regarding Clarissa. They said the children loved her and always wanted to be in her presence. Clarissa called on a Sunday to express her success in obtaining her Child Development Associate (CDA) exam. She was delighted and filled with joy. Clarissa is still working with the training provider today. The training provider kept Clarissa at their facility and stated that she was not one of the best trainees they ever had, but they indicated that she was THE BEST trainee they ever had.

Delilah came to OAI with limited healthcare experience and no access to transportation. Still, she demonstrated a drive to succeed and a willingness to receive training and guidance from the OAI Youth Career Pathway (YCP) team. She completed OAI’s youth boot camp on foundational skills and started Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training.

Delilah experienced transportation issues early in her training, which she shared with the OAI YCP team. Aware of Delilah’s potential, OAI worked with her to develop a plan and provided supportive services to alleviate transportation and scheduling challenges. The team also provided guidance and support to help Delilah secure an internship site closer to her home on the city’s northside.

Delilah did not stop after passing her CNA state board exam and completing her internship. Supported by OAI, Delilah completed Phlebotomy training and registered as a Certified Dementia Practitioner. Now, she is working as a Patient Care Technician at Loyola Gottlieb Memorial Hospital and studying for a nursing program as a registered student at Triton College.

Here is a quote from one email Delilah sent to the OAI team after she completed the program:

“I just want to thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the CNA program because it really did make a difference from where I was before I discovered this program! I was able to qualify for the PCT position, and it’s been two years in the making to achieve this goal! My life turned around within six months because of this OAI program which I am incredibly grateful for!”

My name is Tfyra, and this is my story.

Everything happened perfectly; my mother was preparing to move back to Texas, but I wanted to stay in Illinois. I was trying to get into a License Practical Nurse (LPN) program at my local community college, but I failed their entrance exam. It crushed my spirit, and I didn't know where else to apply for affordable training. I continued working odd jobs to make ends meet (contributing to my mother's household). Then one day, I learned about Midwest Career Source (MCS) from my mother. She told me about their CNA program: getting paid to become trained and certified. I initially didn't believe her about getting paid to become a CNA. I contacted MCS, and they told me about the program. I completed the application, PASSED the entrance exam, was interviewed, and ACCEPTED into their program.

I was scared and nervous at the beginning of the program, but MCS Administrators and St. Elizabeth's managers helped calm my nerves and let me know they were there to help me. After my nerves calmed down, I was excited because it was the beginning of my nursing career; it was the motivation I needed to finish the program. I love the training and the support that I received from MCS. I no longer have to work odd jobs where I'm not happy. After graduating from the program, I took my state exam and passed on my first attempt.

Now as a CNA, I enjoy coming to work and caring for my patients, meeting their family members, and supporting my co-workers. The nurses at the hospital have been available to answer my questions and help me along the way. As my mother suggested, I made the right decision to contact MCS. Otherwise, I don't know what I would have done or where I would be.

I love and appreciate everyone from MCS because they held my hand throughout the program. They provided me with additional nursing information to pursue my nursing degree in the near future.

As a dedicated single mother pursuing a management track at McDonald's, Andrea Kelly decided to enter a career involving construction with an interest in electrical work. She applied to Workforce Investment Solutions to join the Pre-Apprenticeship program offered through the Youth to Career Pathways grant.

Andrea was a committed student and hard worker! She continued to work at McDonald's during the Pre-Apprenticeship program until it was time to enter work experience through the Pre-Apprenticeship class. It was a leap of faith to quit her full-time job and take a chance on work experience with Bodine Electric. Andrea loved her job with Bodine Electric; the company hired her after completing the work experience. She applied and entered a Registered Apprenticeship through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) in February 2023.

She was selected to attend the State of the Union Address in Washington, D.C. as Congresswoman Nikki Budzinsk's guest. This was an excellent experience for Andrea; she is now a successful IBEW apprentice!

Watch Andrea Kelly's video.

Before Midwest Career Source (MCS), I was a caregiver at an Assisted Living Facility for older adults with Alzheimer’s. After four months of working there, the facility closed, leaving me uncertain about what to do. As a follower of Christ, I began praying and asking Him for direction, and then I surrendered my career path to him. Soon after, He directed me to return to school and become a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). I saved money from previous jobs to be readily willing to invest in my career.

During my search to become certified, the first CNA school that came up was Midwest Career Source, and to my surprise, it was around the corner from my home. I began reading the information on their website: paid training and tuition covered. This piqued my interest so much that I called the school to confirm! The Office Coordinator confirmed the information and scheduled an appointment to bring in the required documents and to take the pre-entrance test. I was well on my way! I knew this was where I fit.

Unfortunately, I failed the entrance test, not once but TWICE. The fantastic staff at MCS was so dedicated to my success that I was scheduled to meet with a tutor to help prepare for the third attempt. In our tutoring sessions, I was taught excellent testing techniques, including ways to break down the questions to understand the meaning; I was never taught these techniques in high school. I met with Dr. Day, who continually encouraged me not to give up. After completing my sessions with the tutor, I was approved to retest, and after the third time taking the entrance test, I successfully passed. I was allowed to choose a facility where I wanted to work, I chose St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and was offered a full-time position.

In the classroom setting, I was super focused on my work, and the instructors were hands-on; they wanted to see us succeed, and I was grateful for their dedication. The Administrators and Instructors gave me everything I needed to be successful in the classroom and as a CNA working on the floor providing care to my patients. There are great benefits that come with this program that helped me: paid training, a new job, counseling/guidance, and health benefits, to name a few.

MCS also prepared us for the Illinois State Exam. Though I had trouble along the way with testing, I felt confident and at ease with taking the state exam. I also shared these feelings of peace and confidence with my classmates when encouragement was wanted and needed. Dr. Day told us we would receive our results within a couple of days of taking the exam. My results came via email, and I passed the state exam!

I’m doing well at St. Elizabeth, and my colleagues are all amazing and supportive with helping on and off the floor.

My time at MCS was a humbling experience because I know God led me there. I now have Midwest Career Source, nurse mentors, and doctors that have been great with helping to further my education on my journey to becoming a Nurse Practitioner.

Nataly Gómez is a Medical Assistant apprentice with Shawnee Health.

• Why did you choose to pursue a career as a Medical Assistant?

I have always known that I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. I decided to pursue a career as a Medical Assistant because it would allow me to work with people and care for their health. Medical assisting is a great way to learn new skills, work with people directly, and learn health care's administrative portion.

• What did you do before working for Shawnee Health?

I already worked with Shawnee Health as a professional medical interpreter.

• How did you learn about the apprenticeship?

I learned about the apprenticeship through social media. I had no clue that Shawnee Health would offer an apprenticeship program until I saw it posted on their Facebook page.

• How has the apprenticeship experience been beneficial?

This program has been beneficial because it has taught me many new skills and provided a job for me as well. I learned my skills while working as a Medical Assistant, and Shawnee has provided apprentices with any help or practice they may need with their skills. You work next to many experienced Medical Assistants that help provide guidance and knowledge for all these new skills.

• What advice would you give a new apprentice?

My advice is to take advantage of this great opportunity! It's an excellent program for people wanting a job in the medical field, and the healthcare facility will cover costs. This specific program is entirely online, benefiting those with a busy schedule. It is also a short program, so your new skills will be put to practice in no time.

MyQwon enrolled in the Accelerate Program in May 2022 to obtain his CDL-A License. MyQwon showed true determination to reach new levels for the goals that he set out for himself. There was no doubt in our minds that he would be exceptional throughout the training and the overall program. He has shown great confidence and obtained his forklift certification in May and his CDL-A license from 160 Driving Academy in June 2022.

MyQwon stated, “I knew what needed to be done to change my life around, and everybody on the Accelerate team believed in me more than I believed in myself. There were times when I had doubts and wanted to give up, but they helped push me through. I am forever grateful for the Accelerate Program and the opportunities that the team gave me.” 

MyQwon is currently working for Freightie Inc. as a driver and gaining a lot of experience on the road.

Desi was interested in truck driving and enrolled in January 2022. Desi went through forklift training and received his certification in February 2022. A week later, he started truck driving training through the 160 Truck Driving Academy. He received his CDP (Permit) in March 2022. It has been a pleasure working with Desi throughout this process. Desi continues to work hard and shows determination to complete the training successfully. This month, He will test to obtain his CDL and enter his career field.

Desi stated, “I am so blessed to have been connected with the Accelerate program; being connected allowed me opportunities that I couldn’t even imagine.”

Tayvon enrolled in the Accelerate program in January 2022 and attended the very first "Let’s Talk Trucking" informational session facilitated by the Accelerate program in January 2022. He was driven to accomplish his goals and showed that through his persistence in getting things done ahead of time. He became forklift certified in February 2022, started CDL-A training immediately after, and completed CDL-A in March 2022.

Harley Wilkinson enrolled in the Accelerate program in August of 2022, hoping to obtain his forklift certification and CDL-A license. He was nothing short of exceptional; from the first day he enrolled, he knew what he wanted and what it took to turn things around in his life. He displayed a great amount of hope and determination by asking questions, explaining his concerns, and being vulnerable because he was stepping into a new career field.

Harley was a wonderful individual to work with. He has confidence like no other that carried over into his training and to him ultimately finding employment. Harley stated, “I have always thought about being a truck driver but didn’t know where to start or the resources I needed to get over the hurdles I had throughout my life. When I learned about the Accelerated program, the staff was very welcoming and open to my situation. The Accelerate team has allowed me to challenge myself in areas I haven’t thought of, and because of that, I am thankful to have been with this program. Now I have my CDL-A and am headed in the right direction.”

Harley obtained his CDL-A in late September of 2022. He is a driver at Quality Transport Company in Freeport, IL, and will begin driving on the road in the coming weeks.

Ivan attended the first "Let’s Talk Trucking" informational session that the Accelerate program facilitated at the end of January 2022. He was very engaged in conversation with the speakers; he asked many questions and discussed the things he already knew about the trucking industry. Ivan enrolled in the Accelerate program in February 2022, started the 160 Truck Driving Academy by the end of February 2022, and obtained his CDL-A certification and license by March 2022.

Ivan stated, “I appreciate the staff at the Accelerate program. Thank you all for believing in me and making me feel like I can accomplish my goals”.

Now that Ivan has obtained his CDL-A, he will work with his father in the trucking industry.

Isaiah enrolled in the Accelerate program in January 2022 with the determination to become a semi-truck driver. Isaiah stuck through the course and obtained his forklift certification in February and his CDL-A license from the 160 Driving Academy in June 2022.

Isaiah stated, “I am thankful for the Accelerate Program for their help and for not giving up on me. This was definitely a life-changing opportunity.”

Isaiah is currently working for Meiborg Brothers Inc. as a warehouse spotter since receiving his CDL-A.

Adrianna Jimenez was motivated to make a career change to allow her to make more money for herself and her daughter. Once Adrianna enrolled in the Accelerate Program on May 16, 2022, we had numerous forklift training available, with one being the next day. Adrianna was determined to complete her forklift training and volunteered to attend the training on May 17, 2022, and completed the training successfully. Before attending truck driving training, she attended "Let’s Talk Trucking" at the beginning of June. This open discussion is provided to all participants monthly and facilitated by a truck driver operator/owner to help prepare participants for the trucking industry. Adrianna asked a lot of questions and was able to determine the type of truck driving she wanted to pursue. She also attended an expungement workshop hosted by the Accelerate program, which had attorneys on hand to answer questions and get participants started on the expungement process. Adrianna started truck driving training at the 160 Truck Driving Academy in June 2022 and obtained her CDL-A certification and license in August 2022.

Adrianna stated, “I appreciate the staff at the Accelerate program; I don’t think I would have gone through with getting my CDL-A if it wasn’t for you guys keeping me motivated even after you checked in and provided me with different resources to help me. Thank you for believing in me and making me feel I can accomplish my goals”.

Now that Adrianna has obtained her CDL-A, she’s interested in her current employer offering her a truck driving position.

For some high school students, deciding what to do after graduation is difficult. Head straight into the workforce? Join the military? Go away to college or choose an institution near home? But for David Mooshool, joining an apprenticeship program with the College of DuPage (COD) was an easy decision. Because David was involved in a Youth Apprentice Program during his senior year, he had already spent time learning about careers in manufacturing and gained hands-on experience that helped him feel confident in his choice.

During his senior year, David joined the new Youth Apprenticeship Program (YAP) at York High School in Elmhurst, which allowed him to get hands-on experience working in manufacturing. After completing course requirements in the morning, David traveled to a manufacturing facility in the afternoon to work with Simplex System Controls Inc. Through his placement with the Youth Apprenticeship Program, David rotated through roles at Simplex System Control Inc., including shipping/receiving, assembly, and quality control. Participation in a YAP provides high school students with valuable experience, allowing them to explore careers while earning wages.

“I enjoyed my work experience, and toward the end of my senior year of high school, my manufacturing teacher mentioned that I could continue with my work and education through the Project Hire-Ed program at COD. It seemed like an amazing program to be a part of, and after talking with counselors, I decided to enroll after graduation.”

Youth Apprenticeships also give apprentices a head start on their careers. When David entered the Project Hire-Ed apprenticeship program at the College of DuPage, he had already earned over 600 hours that could be counted towards his on-the-job training hours required for the Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program with the College of DuPage as an Electromechanical Technician.

David expects to complete his coursework at the College of DuPage in December 2024, earning a certificate in Applied Technology, then, he plans to continue his education at COD to earn an Associate’s degree in Manufacturing Technology.

“COD is helping me toward my goals by giving me the education and skills I need to perform well at my company. So far, all of my professors at COD have been great. They have many years of work/teaching experience and are very good at explaining confusing topics.”

The transition from being a Youth Apprentice to starting college and joining a Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program at College of DuPage is seamless, as the team with Project Hire-Ed is there to guide the employer and apprentice in every step. David advises anyone considering a Youth Apprenticeship or Registered Apprenticeship with the College of DuPage: “Definitely do it!”

Adrian Mena graduated from Curie High School in 2022 and participated in the Youth Career Pathways Program through Brighton Park Neighborhood Council. The program helped stabilize him since he had to pause school due to financial circumstances. Adrian could support his family and himself because he was paid for participating in the program. Part of the program focused on job and life skills, which helped Adrian create a resume and prepare himself to apply for a job and enroll in college. He was certified in laser cutting and 3D printing, which was a great addition to his resume! The program helped him learn excellent communication and presentation skills needed for his interest in becoming a teacher.

Lawrence Wyre, a 23-year-old single parent, came to Phalanx Family Services to seek a career opportunity within the construction field. He struggled to land employment due to his criminal background. Lawrence is a motivated young individual with a solid vision to change his life around and make a positive impact within himself and in the lives of others; he believes in a second chance/opportunity.

In February 2023, Lawrence enrolled in the Youth Career Pathways (YCP) - Build & Grow Construction Program. He completed all his certifications and graduated as one of the top students. Lawrence gained self-employment as a Construction Laborer. After a short period of working in the industry, he gathered classmates from the YCP Construction Training Program to establish a group of construction laborers to complete jobs with homeowners and business owners. With his new credentials and skills, he makes an average of $22.00 per hour and has maintained employment to care for himself and his family. He will no longer suffer from not having a steady income.

One day, Lawrence would like to own a non-profit organization to provide workforce development solutions and strength-based social services to disadvantaged and at-risk populations, especially youth, like he formerly was. He is committed to building stronger families.

From trainee to entrepreneur, classmates to business owners. Lawrence is genuinely one of Phalanx's Finest!

Nearly 2,000 eighth graders and educators from thirty-two surrounding schools attended the 2023 8th Grade Career Conference at Lake Land College to learn about future career options!

The event was hosted by Eastern Illinois Education for Employment Systems 340 and Lake Land College’s Perkins Department with support in planning by local WIOA partners. LWIA 23 staff, Business Services Outreach staff from the Illinois Department of Employment Security, and the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Rehab administrators also attended the festivities.

Afternoon and morning sessions were offered over the course of two days (March 30-31, 2023). Each session was kicked off by Brooks Harper, an author and motivational speaker. Students from thirty-five regional middle and junior high schools then moved to the career fair, circling throughout the Lake Land College Field House, visiting Career Presenters’ tables to ask questions and learn more about career skills and opportunities.

Almost seventy local businesses participated in the excitement. At the Conference, presenters engaged with students and informed them of various vocations’ educational/technical needs. The shared value for intentional career exploration from so many regional business leaders was inspiring. The local employers prove to be dedicated to providing students with accessible career opportunities within our communities. The opportunity benefited students as they prepared to transition to high school and select their classes.

Watch event highlights in this video then scroll through pictures from the event on LWIA 23 - Business Services Facebook post and Eastern IL Education for Employment System 340 Facebook post!

 

Offering a wide variety of career exploration opportunities enables students to prepare for their high school educational needs, ultimately affecting their college and career objectives. The LWIA 23 Business Services Team looks forward to the 32nd annual 8th Grade Career Conference on April 11th-12th, 2024!

Malinda Cooks is a mother to two children. In February 2020, she was hired as an Inpatient Pharmacy Technician at BJC–Memorial Hospital in Belleville. In March 2022, Malinda entered the Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship and began taking classes at Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC).

According to Cooks, “I chose to pursue the apprenticeship program because I wanted to learn more about the pharmacy and expand my knowledge so I can better understand the medicine that patients were prescribed. I needed to know this information to pass the PTCE and to improve my work performance.”

She explained that by being in the apprentice program, she achieved passing the PTCE. The PTCE is a required certification after two years of pharmacy work. Individuals can take the PTCB or NHA; both are nationally recognized exams. Malinda is very proud of this achievement as she is now a Tech II and IV trained. She can move on to Tech III and IV positions within the pharmacy.

Cooks shared that the most surprising thing was learning all the necessary tools within one semester. So much knowledge had to be learned, like the 200 drugs, laws, etc. She was amazed at how the program was structured and how it covered every area required to be taught in such a short period. She was also amazed at how many resources were available to the students for additional help.

Malinda said, “There were a few challenges, like studying while working and taking care of kids. Sometimes, it was hard to get to class because I had to get my kids to school on time. I also had to travel from Lebanon to Alton for clinicals. I had a few childcare issues when my kids were sick, but I still needed to go to school. The instructors worked to accommodate me so I wouldn’t miss anything.”

Amanda Santini, Pharmacy Supervisor, said, “Since Malinda has started and completed the apprenticeship program, she has gained not only additional pharmacy knowledge but also a lot of confidence in critical pharmacy tasks.”

“I would advise someone looking to take an apprenticeship as a career pathway to stay focused and never stop asking questions about things you don’t know. Whether the career is in retail or a hospital, the need for pharmacy techs is in high demand. Making this decision, you are guaranteed to have a brighter future,” said Cooks.

Tobias Hennrich will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from Elgin Community Collect (ECC) in May 2023. While studying for his degree, Tobias gained skills in machining, wiring, welding, and programming—all of which had previously fascinated him. Still, a lack of hands-on experience to explore and expand upon his curiosity left him unable to pursue the career path. Tobias applied his skills as an apprentice in Crystal Lake at TC Industries and said the apprenticeship program changed his life. It has allowed him to “work towards a career” rather than remaining in “dead-end jobs.” Moreover, the “fun” and “memorable learning” involved completing projects and building relationships with students, professors, and program coordinators made his ECC experience unlike anything he’d encountered in previous colleges.

Konrad Ryk will complete the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) apprenticeship program and earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from Elgin Community College (ECC) in May 2023. He worked at Herrmann Ultrasonics in Bartlett, where he was excited to have tuition paid while working in an environment that enabled him to apply course concepts. As Konrad balanced commitments to work and studies, encouragement and coaching from ECC’s apprenticeship coordinator helped him improve his time management and organization skills. He also notes that “making new friends” among apprenticeship program peers made a difference in his life.

Since joining Elgin Community College's (ECC) Industrial Maintenance Mechanic apprentice program, Alex Sotelo has grown his professional skills and confidence. When he first began the program over a year ago, Alex was reserved and unsure whether or not school would hold his interest. Since then, Alex has apprenticed at Tiger Drylac USA Inc. in St. Charles and is unequivocally enthusiastic about the experience, asserting, “The apprenticeship program changed my life!”

Apprenticeship allowed Alex to develop skills through experiential learning in classes (e.g., welding) and on the job. Alex says, “I love coming to school and learning about what I see and do at work. It gives me a better understanding and helps me learn faster.” Alex recognizes the experience equips him to be increasingly independent and “build a better future for myself, putting me farther ahead into a field where I am trying to be successful.”

ECC is grateful to have partnered with Tiger Drylac USA Inc. to provide Alex with class scheduling support, training, knowledge, and hands-on experience—all combined with his drive to work hard to produce a confident, competent new workforce member.

In spring 2023, Anthony Bellavia will complete the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) apprenticeship program and earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from Elgin Community College (ECC). Anthony worked at Herrmann Ultrasonics in Bartlett while attending classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Anthony demonstrated keen abilities and interest in Industrial Manufacturing Technology (IMT) in classes and the workplace. Anthony says, "During the program, ECC supported me in everything that I needed.” Moreover, Professors noticed his capacity for articulating course concepts and encouraged him to apply for the adjunct instructor role in the Sustainability Business and Career Technology Division. Anthony was hired and is moving from student to teacher! He notes the powerful impact of apprenticeship as it has “opened up my career in more ways than one.”

Sarai Tipler, a single mom of two boys who resides in Ullin, Illinois, was approved for the WIOA Program to pursue the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in the Fall of 2020 at Shawnee Community College.

Sarai stated,

“I was determined to become a nurse because I love being in the nursing field, taking care of people, and seeing a simile on patients' faces knowing that I have done everything I could for them before my shift ends. The WIOA program lifted a burden off me and helped a lot because I did not know how to pay for school. At the time, I didn’t have a job and didn’t get approval for a PELL grant since I used all my hours once before being in the nursing program. After being accepted into the WIOA Program, I could focus on school and not worry about finances.

While the journey was never easy, I have worked for a year and a half as an LPN at St. Francis Hospital on the Orthopedic/Surgical floor.

I continue to learn and grow each day. I am a hands-on, visualized person. Taking care of patients is a little different from the textbook and manikins you practice during nursing school, but I enjoy my work and love getting to know my patients and their family members. My coworkers are wonderful team players, and I couldn’t ask for a better group of women and men to work with.”

She is furthering her career to become a Registered Nurse (RN) as she works on-call, part-time, as a PRN while in the LPN-RN Bridge program.

Sarai says, “Trust in God even when a man/woman says NO or that you cannot do it. When you fail/fall, get back up and try it again. Do not give up on your dreams no matter what obstacles may come your way."

She also wants to extend her appreciation to the Shawnee Development Council WIOA Program by saying, “Thank you!”

Danielle Ellis was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Her interest in Information Technology (IT) peaked after being told she works well with technology.

In September 2022, Danielle signed up for the Youth Job Center. She wanted to further her knowledge and skills to find a career in the IT field. Danielle started the IT Career Lab with the National Able Network on September 26, 2022, and completed the program on February 3, 2022. During the IT Career Lab Program, Danielle earned two badges. The first badge was for Introduction to Networks, where she gained knowledge of networking, including IP addressing, how physical data link protocols support Ethernet, and configuring connectively between switches, routers, and end devices to provide access to local and remote resources. The second badge she earned was her CCNA: Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation, where she obtained a foundation in scalable network architectures, dynamic routing, mitigation of security threats, wide area networks, virtualization, and automation of programmable networks. One of the things Danielle enjoyed while being a part of the IT program was subnetting/advanced subnetting and packet tracers.

Danielle is interested in graphic design or returning to school to major in Criminology and Criminal Justice. She plans to see how to combine the skills and knowledge to utilize in her career.

Christopher was born in Mexico and currently lives in Chicago, Illinois. He's always had a passion for technology and an interest in learning what's behind the machine and how technology works. In 2021, Christopher earned his Associate Degree in Computer Science from Harold Washington College, but he wanted to continue to gain experience with technology to develop a better understanding of the future of technology.

In September 2021, Christopher signed up for the Youth Job Center with an interest in technology. Christopher started the IT Career Lab with National Able on April 4, 2022, and completed the program on August 5, 2022. During the IT Career Lab, Christopher earned two badges. His first badge was for Introductions to Networks, where he gained knowledge of networking, including IP addressing, how physical data link protocols support Ethernet, and configuring connectively between switches, routers, and end devices to provide access to local and remote resources. The second badge he earned was his CCNA: Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation, where he obtained a foundation in scalable network architectures, dynamic routing, mitigation of security threats, wide area networks, virtualization, and automation of programmable networks.

Christopher is currently interning at the Youth Job Center as a Data Associate. As Christopher goes through his internship, he hopes to continue gaining skills and experience to utilize in the IT field while adding those skills to his resume to showcase his expertise to future employers. He learned how to improve his time management and multitasking skills. Christopher has grown more confident in looking for and choosing a job in IT. In the future, he wants to help/support others who face challenges with technology to make it easier for them. He wants to show those, who face challenges with technology, how it works and the benefits of technology.

Growing up in Gage Park, Elvis Martinez dreamed of working in a professional kitchen just like his uncle and cousin. He decided to follow his dream of becoming a professional cook after a friend told him about UNITE HERE Chicago Hospitality Institute (UHCHI).

After applying to the program, he was accepted and began his journey. Just as Elvis was about to start the program, his mother fell ill. Feeling overwhelmed on the first day of class, he told the Chef instructor that he did not want to waste Chef’s time and that he would not be coming back the next day. Elvis remembers Chef saying, “I won’t let you quit something that I know is your dream. We are going to work through this together.” He returned for the second day and attributed the ongoing support that UHCHI provided to help him complete the eight-week in-class training and eventually land his dream job as a cook at the Chicago Hilton and Towers.

Despite growing up with a learning disability, he worked around to earn good grades throughout high school, but Elvis struggled when he went to college. He didn’t enjoy the topics he was studying, nor did he receive the support to succeed. He worked full-time and went to school full-time until eventually leaving college. Elvis credits the Chef instructors and the UHCHI team with providing him (and the rest of his cohort) with the support and care each of them needed. Elvis stated, “College is expensive. With UHCHI, I didn’t pay anything. And I had the support and tools I needed. Not only do they teach you, prepare you, and help you get a job, you gain many friends. It feels like another family.” From tutoring to a knife kit, the textbook, work shoes, transportation for students who need it, and financial coaching services, Elvis said he is honored to have such an extensive support system. “UHCHI didn’t just meet me halfway – they constantly make sure I’m where I’m supposed to be and I have the tools I need to succeed. The UHCHI team didn’t just care about our performance but our well-being too. On day one, they didn’t know us, but they already loved us regardless. That was a huge motivation for me.”

After eight weeks of in-class training, Elvis took some time to care for his mother. Thankfully, things started improving, and he was ready for on-the-job training. With support from UHCHI, he got a job as a cook at the Hilton Chicago. Before UHCHI, Elvis worked a minimum wage job in Indiana, making $13 per hour. He now has an excellent job at the Chicago Hilton, earning $20 per hour as a Cook III; he can pay his bills and help his family. Elvis said, “I love my job. It is exciting. Every day is different. I see food as a form of art. It feels great to do a form of art through cooking.” As Elvis reflected on the impact UHCHI has had on his life, he responded, “Having a learning disability used to cause me anxiety. I was constantly worried about failing tests. But with UHCHI, it is refreshing to know that I wouldn’t be judged that I learn differently from other students. I don’t have to feel embarrassed. Because at the end of the day, I will learn the task, and I know I can do that. I’m proud of myself because I know I can do what I’m passionate about.”

Dana Marlow, a Career Specialist at Man-Tra-Con Corporation, shares this Success Story of her customer, Amanda Egbert:

“In October 2018, Amanda came to Man-Tra-Con Corporation seeking training assistance. She needed our help with getting her GED. While working toward her GED at John A. Logan College, she also enrolled in our Work Experience Program (WEP), where she worked at Man-Tra-Con’s Du Quoin office from January to March 2019. Amanda wanted to pursue a career in Health Care and enrolled in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Rend Lake College (RLC) beginning in August 2019. She completed the program and received her CNA Certificate in November 2019. Amanda always worked very hard but was always second-guessing herself. With encouragement from Man-Tra-Con, she continued with her education and enrolled in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Rend Lake College, graduating in May 2022 with an overall GPA of 4.00. Amanda successfully passed the NCLEX ADN exam and will begin employment as a Registered Nurse on July 25, 2022, at St. Joseph Hospital in Murphysboro, Illinois! She will begin with the residency program for one year in the Medical Surgical Unit, earning $28.50 per hour and working 36 hours per week."

Amanda has this to say about the services she received from Man-Tra-Con:

“I left home as a teenager and became a young mom shortly after. I had dropped out of high school and honestly did not think I would ever be able to finish even my education. In my 30s, I finally met with a Man-Tra-Con representative to figure out how to get a GED, and she told me about their college placement programs. I leaped and enrolled at RLC after I finished my GED. Financial assistance provided by Man-Tra-Con helped me get through school, but more importantly, I received support and encouragement throughout my program. I graduated from Rend Lake College in May 2022 with an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. I couldn’t have done that without Man-Tra-Con’s support."

Champaign County Regional Planning Commission (CCPRC), in partnership with Apprenticeship Illinois, worked to execute a capacity-building project from July 1, 2022, to June 31, 2023. The project included four phases:

1. Get a lay of the land.
2. Build a Coalition.
3. Developing messaging and setting goals.
4. Engage employers.

In Quarter 3 and Quarter 4 of 2023, CCRPC got a lay of the land by engaging the Apprenticeship Illinois network and visiting apprenticeship sites across the state. During that time, CCRPC also worked to bring together stakeholders in the economic development region, including three community colleges, two local workforce areas, and an apprenticeship intermediary. Based on research and discussions, CCRPC developed a survey for Coalition stakeholders and aggregated and analyzed the survey data. Based on Phases 1 and 2 and the survey, CCRPC was able to write a report that captured opportunities and challenges within the EDR. This work directly impacts Phase 3: messaging and goal setting. The Coalition will discuss apprenticeships as one of several good work-based learning options that could address the talent shortage crisis by upskilling incumbent workers and backfilling more easy-to-fill entry-level positions. Our messaging will also work to advance equity by helping employers create supportive cultures that improve recruitment and retention efforts through job readiness programs and by sharing information about good jobs, career pathways, and supportive services with target populations. The goals will be demand-driven and based on the dynamics of local industries. The Coalition has set goals for Phase 4, employer engagement based on demand and dynamics.

Read the full Registered Apprenticeship in East Central Illinois: An Apprenticeship Navigator Report here.

Keshawn Thomas is the first graduate of the Madison County Employment and Training Department's Apprenticeship Program! The Registered Apprenticeship Program, through the Madison County Employment and Training Department, offers students with disabilities at Collinsville School District the opportunity to pursue three tracks developed in collaboration with the Gateway Convention Center and the City of Collinsville Parks and Recreation Department. Positions include housekeeping, events support, and landscaper/groundskeeper. There are currently four students in the Apprenticeship Program.

Keshawn worked as a landscaper and groundskeeper in the City's Parks and Recreation Department alongside his mentor, Michael Dowell. Michael, an employee at Collinsville Parks, said Keshawn is like Mr. Sunshine by brightening everyone's day. Keshawn's mother said he's continued to break milestones since the age of three. During the City Council meeting in January, the City of Collinsville recognized Keshawn as the first student to complete the program and presented him with his U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Certificate in front of his family, teachers, and co-workers. This accomplishment paves the way for his future, in which his Apprenticeship Certificate will be used to pursue future employment opportunities.

Watch Keshawn be recognized with his mentor in this video on Fox 2 St. Louis: https://youtu.be/yCFS5H0kSt4

To hear more about Keshawn's success, watch this interview with Keshawn's mother, the Director of Special Education at Collinsville Unit 20, and the Director of Madison County Employment and Training Department: https://youtu.be/iKjNPNsMJAU

Luis is a first-generation immigrant from Guatemala and currently resides in Chicago Lawn. He has his Associate Degree in Art from Harold Washington College. Luis has customer service experience in the restaurant industry but knew it was not something he wanted to do long-term. His goal is to be in the IT field to learn more about computer systems, functionality/maintenance and to improve his computer skills. Luis started the IT Career Lab with National Able on April 4th, 2022, and completed the program on August 5th, 2022. The program helped Luis gain the necessary skills and knowledge to apply for jobs in the IT field and be successful. He learned about routers, switches, and how the internet functions in the Cisco CCNA course. He also learned how to program, work on troubleshooting, how the internet is structured, and how to protect users from attacks.

Shortly after completing the IT Career Lab, Luis took his CCNA exam and earned his certification; as he works his way up, he plans to gain more credentials. Luis also completed a 10-week paid work experience with Youth Job Center. During his internship, he learned to work with different systems (Salesforce, Microsoft, Excel, etc.) and assisted the team with data management. Most recently, Luis was accepted into Discovery Partner Institute for a software development program set to begin in June 2023. Luis has been working on preparing for this next chapter in his life and is excited about his success in the IT field!

Seth entered the last half of his high school journey in a precarious state. He lacked direction, struggled with drugs, and did not see a direct way out of his situation. Having always been interested in technical subjects, he enrolled in a CTE course at his school. His instructor saw the spark of interest in Seth and noticed he had natural ability and skill when he completed his class work.

Seth was introduced to SkillsUSA Illinois and told about the Registered Apprenticeship Program. He learned he could become part of the program funded and supported by the Youth Careers Pathways (YCP) grant and have a chance at a fresh start in a job he enjoyed with the support and resources he needed to get back on track. He decided to focus on his schooling and his career.

Seth enrolled in the Registered Apprenticeship Program at an automotive dealership in Morton, Illinois, where he began training to be an automotive technician. He redoubled his efforts to finish his schooling strong so he could remain in his courses and have access to the education to support his job. Seth excelled in his job, and his grades improved. He also broke free of his drug dependency and has been free of that lifestyle for some time.

Seth is exiting the YCP program and continues to flourish in his career. He graduated high school and is now attending community college to get additional knowledge and certifications, all funded by his employer. Seth's future is bright; he looks forward to whatever comes next.

My name is Samantha Haigh; I participated in the Youth Career Pathway Program at the Quad County Urban League. I had doubts when first going into my journey with Quad County Urban League. What was the program about, how will I do, and how will it conflict with my work?

First, I met LaQuentin, Xavier, and Manuela. Their warming energy made me feel as if I belonged in the space and felt welcomed into the programs (Nicor Gas Academy & Youth Career Pathways). As the classes began, we learned about different curricula on upholding ourselves, resume prep, interview prep, and working on our interpersonal development as well as the many staff that helps everyone along the way, such as Manuela Gracia’s constant support and willingness to help me, and Xavier Garcia for continually being on top of everything and ensuring everyone was on the correct path.

Quad County League gave me the key to open doors of opportunities. Meeting each morning, we learned how to showcase our best skills, meet with HR representatives from different companies, and learn further about their work and the work-based learning opportunities. Quad County Urban League gives everyone a fair chance. It provides all the resources for a successful program and even offers proper clothing for any candidate needing such help. With all the skills I gained through the various Quad County Urban League programs, I landed a job as an Associates Banker at BMO Harris Bank!

My name is Jakub Baklazec; I participated in the Youth Career Pathway Program at the Quad County Urban League. Before the Quad County Urban League, I was a 23-year-old who worked two jobs, lived in my own apartment, and paid my own bills. One day at church, I met an incredible woman named Alecia who told me about the Quad County Urban League and how they offer programs to help young minorities, such as myself, get careers in the trades. I wanted to become an electrician through a union apprenticeship, so I was intrigued by this.

A few weeks later, I signed up for the Nicor Career Gas Academy and Youth Career Pathways Program; the rest is history. I was exposed to multiple utility contractors and learned valuable information about gas utilities' operations. I was fortunate to have a great instructor, LaQuentin Jenkins, a phenomenal, educated leader who helped me sharpen my presentation and employability skills. I also had an outstanding mentorship from Manuela Gracia, my case manager for the Youth Career Pathways Program. I enjoyed our in-person meetings after trainings. I received multiple credentials that will help me further my career. I am still pursuing a career in the electrical field, but the Quad County Urban League has immensely helped me prepare for this route. I will forever be grateful for them.

My name is DeLarren Young and I participated in the Youth Career Pathway Program at the Quad County Urban League. In reflection of my time throughout my undergraduate schooling, there have been many accomplishments that I gained and strived for. With those accomplishments, I have further pushed myself to become a better learner and student in psychology to my ever-approaching graduation date. Yet even with these accomplishments, I faced many adversities and troubles as a student at an out-of-state college where tuition, books, and housing are expensive. Gathering funding and scholarships proved challenging until I was introduced to Youth Career Pathways Program at Quad County Urban League! They tremendously helped me with the cost of my tuition, housing, books, and even groceries, which aid I would have never received and been as successful had I not been helped by the immensely driven, intelligent, caring, and understanding people of Quad County Urban League.

The training I received through the Youth Career Pathways Program helped build my professional and intellectual skills. These skills helped in my project presentation, job interviews, and social networking meetings. My Case Manager, Manuela Gracia, has been especially phenomenal in helping me gain professional skills, scholarship resources, internships, jobs, and more. She is only a piece of many at the Quad County Urban League that will go the extra mile to make sure students like me get the help we need and deserve!

I look forward to my continued relationship with Quad County Urban League for many more years.

The Hope Center Foundation helped me get to a better position for a better job and future. Before coming to the Hope Center, I was eager for a gateway opportunity. I wanted more for myself regarding my well-being and having a good enough job to support me. This program leads young black, educated and uneducated men and women to greatness.

When I first arrived, I was skeptical about the pre-requisition steps and the number of participations needed for the process. During the process, Tamela Hughes (Mrs. Tammy) explained how the program could help me with most issues that may or may not be current at the time. Mrs. Tammy guided me in the right direction. Thanks to her help, I got my Forklift Certification and license nearly the same month beyond intake. I was enrolled in a 1-week class that would guarantee my success in getting my Forklift License. Within that week, I was professionally taught Forklift Fundamentals and Safety. The course was profound in allowing every learner to understand the operations thoroughly. After the class was finished, Mrs. Tammy immediately began to send each participant jobs and companies hiring within our areas. She also provided information on other programs at The Hope Center that could further our experiences and lengthen our resumes. The Hope Center generously offered each of us work gear, safety wear, and uniforms precise and necessary for our certification. One thing I like about Mrs. Tammy and the Hope Center is that they will always let you know that there is more in store for anyone who wants and feels that they deserve more for themselves.

Regardless of where or what you're from, I invite anyone to try the Hope Center Foundation.

Bernard Reynold, a graduate of the ABCIL 2022 Apprenticeship Illinois grant, appreciates the service and training he received during his recent training. He said he did not graduate from grammer school nor high school and that this is the first training he has ever completed. This training has been a game-changer in his life. Bernard is employed at Phoenix Construction LLC, where he loves his job, and most of all, he has not used drugs or consumed alcohol since he got a wake-up call during routine drug testing in the program.

We are so proud of Bernard for his many achievements and, most of all, for keeping his children and family together. Congratulations, Bernard, the best is yet to come!