When Henry Piehl, a machinist at Haumiller Engineering in South Elgin, first started in shipping and receiving, he did not imagine he would one day be programming CNC machines. But curiosity has a way of opening doors. 
“I was always fascinated with the machining department, and I wanted to know if I could shadow some people there,” Piehl said. Piehl’s supervisor helped him get information about introductory classes at Elgin Community College (ECC), and his interest in the field continued to grow.  
Today, Piehl is responsible for CNC programming, setup, and operation, helping manufacture precision parts. At the same time, he is enrolled in the apprenticeship program at ECC, taking courses in CAD design, technical math, and CNC programming. 
The program combines eight-week and sixteen-week courses, allowing students to balance classroom instruction with full-time employment. “The instructors are good,” Piehl said. “They’re really there to help.”  
Piehl first attended ECC as a dual credit student while at Jacobs High School in Algonquin, taking automotive courses. At the time, machining was not on his radar. 
“I never had an interest in machining until I started working at Haumiller,” he said. “I saw the CNC machines and talked with some of the guys who work in that department. It became really fascinating to me.” 
That fascination has turned into a long-term career path. Through the ECC and Haumiller apprenticeship program, Piehl logs his work hours each month, building toward earning his journeyman card, a credential that carries significant weight in the industry. 
“That is a huge deal,” he said. “It proves that you finished being an apprentice, you put in the work and the time, and you can take that anywhere.” 
Experienced machinists at Haumiller offer Piehl guidance daily. “When they see you doing something, they give you a helping hand,” he said. Combined with formal instruction at ECC, that hands-on mentoring has accelerated his growth. “They say, ‘try it this way,’ and it actually works better than what you were doing,” Piehl said. “There’s just so much knowledge.” 
He also sees strong financial and professional stability in the field. With many seasoned machinists nearing retirement, demand for skilled workers continues to grow. “It’s definitely a better career for financial stability,” he said. “There’s going to be a need for a lot of machinists coming up.” 
As ECC prepares to open its new Manufacturing and Technology Center, Piehl is excited to continue his coursework in a modernized space equipped with updated machines and expanded lab areas. “It’s exciting,” he said. “New machines, new technology. It’s a great step forward for manufacturing in Illinois.” 
For those considering the apprenticeship path, Piehl’s advice is simple: “If you’re on the fence, just do it. Even sign up for a couple of classes to see if it’s something you want to do with your life.” 

We are excited to highlight recent developments in training and employment at PWA (Project Wright Access).
Vietfive Coffee has 2 PWA participants on staff and is interning 3 more with hopes of employment! Vietfive uses a variety of ADA accommodations for employees and customers! Here, everyone is welcome to enjoy great coffee, food, and culture.
This type of true partnership is rare and courageous. There is much conscious and unconscious ableism that occurs in the workplace and beyond. You will not find it here! This award-winning company, owned by Anna and Tuan Huynh, is an example of how authentic, inclusive employment helps everyone thrive.
We are extremely proud of Richard, Laurence, Angel, Max, and Isaiah, and extremely grateful to be learning from and with Vietfive!!! 
Owners Anna and Tuan Huynh understand the disability myths created by society are false obstacles. Vietfive uses Anna's education and training as an educator, and Tuan's training and experience in operating in a highly competitive industry, to provide a culturally immersive and responsive experience for all. They both understand the importance of family and friends. They use ADA accommodations for employees AND customers. 
Vietfive produces delicious food and coffee, develops a high-performing employee-family atmosphere, and makes customers feel included and valued.

Project Wright Access received the Envision Unlimited Humanitarian of the Year Award last month. This honor was shared with Eli's Cheesecake and made possible by the active support of DRS Director Rahnee Patrick, MOPD Commissioner Rachel Arfa, Illinois House Representative Lindsey Lapointe, and Governor Pritzker. The project is funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's JTED Grant. We would not do justice without mentioning the student representatives who highlighted the program's impact. The grant has addressed ableism in the workplace and beyond.

Xander is entering his second year at Eli's Cheesecake and is thriving there. He made a wonderful speech articulating the life-changing opportunities the program provides. Jonathan, a 3-year employee at Eli's Cheesecake, has presented at the Chicago MOPD ADA35 Celebration at the request of Commissioner Arfa.

This unique and life-changing program has outperformed national, state, and local employment metrics through wraparound and immersive support. Companies like Eli's Cheesecake, Vietfive Coffee, and Mariano's have understood how the disability myths are just that- myths. Our students are thriving in long-term employment and exemplify distinguished service.

This community of secondary and higher education, families, students, and businesses has removed barriers and obstacles to provide opportunities that improve the quality of life for all involved.

In February of 2025, a young man named Keylian Green became a participant in IYIP via Public Image Partnership. From the first day Mr. Green entered our doors, he was full of enthusiasm, determined to succeed, asking questions, and mapping out his plan. He was in training to complete a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) program at 160 Driving Academy, Truck Driver Training in Chicago. Being a parent to a young son, Keylian often spoke of the joy his son brought into his life. You might say his son was the driving force behind his success. When our staff first met this young man, he was living with his sister. He often spoke of his desire to get his own apartment, a car, and to be financially secure and responsible so that he could take great care of his son. Driven to succeed, motivated by his son. Yes, Keylian’s trajectory was one way. That was to the top, and continuing his ascension to even greater heights.
On February 17, 2025, Keylian Green passed his CDL test! He wasted no time, obtaining his first job driving big rigs. He is so grateful, as he drives locally (between Illinois and Wisconsin) daily, which allows him to be home with his son after each shift. Keylian now owns a car and is looking to purchase a second car to drive to work. He has his own apartment. He gets overtime when he desires to work more hours, and has formed new friendships with his colleagues. Keylian mentioned how they look out for each other on the road. He is so joyful of the path he is presently on, as he keeps striving for more, to provide a solid foundation for his son. He was always a pleasant and polite young man. It is easy to see why he is doing so well, so quickly.
Many thanks to Ms. Crystal Cole (Business Development Specialist) at 160 Driving Academy for her time, instructions, training, and dedication in helping all of the Keylian Greens who have participated in their CDL Training Program. Public Image Partnership is very thankful that Mr. Green chose our doors to enter and continue to thrive.

It is always a pleasure to welcome eager, attentive, friendly, goal-oriented, and polite participants into the IYIP program at Public Image Partnership. Several providers in the Chicagoland area also administer the IYIP program. Participants can choose from several providers, so it is always an honor when our agency is chosen. Each participant has a unique story that led them to our door. The main objective is employment, often in an area of interest to the participant. Most of our participants are very easy to work with and need some guidance and encouragement.
Kimari Jimmar was a determined, intelligent, friendly, and eager-to-succeed participant. Our agency welcomed Kimari Jimmar on April 17, 2025. This young lady expressed an interest in the medical field and planned to continue her education while employed. That determination led her to complete the enrollment process at Public Image Partnership and gain work experience at Premium Practitioners Plus / Belle Lueur Wellness Spa in Flossmoor, Illinois, which led to a hired position at the spa. Ms. Jimmar received her last check from our agency on Friday, August 8, 2025. She is still employed at Premium Practitioners while continuing her education in the health sciences. Kimari demonstrates the best of both worlds! She came to us as an IYIP enrollee, completed the enrollment process, enjoyed her worksite experience, got hired, and is continuing to enhance her skills by continuing her education in the area of her choice (Health Sciences). Our entire staff rejoices in this young lady's achievements. It is always our goal to meet them where they are, while assisting them on their desired path of gainful employment.
Dr. Talia Thompson Jones was more than a supervisor to Kimari; she was a role model highly respected by our participant. We look forward to hearing great things about Kimari’s future endeavors and her continued growth in the healthcare field.

I began my journey in a carpentry pre-apprenticeship program, where I built a strong foundation in safety, construction math, and basic tool use. This experience prepared me for a carpentry apprenticeship, where I gained hands-on skills, discipline, and real-world job-site experience.
Motivated to expand my opportunities, I advanced into an electrical apprenticeship with EDDR, where I developed technical knowledge in wiring, systems, problem-solving, and residential wiring schematics. With support from Ms. Hill & CAPS (Community Assistance Program), I was able to secure an apprenticeship with Faith Technologies Incorporated on April 27, 2026! 
Today, my path reflects growth, adaptability, and a commitment to building a sustainable career in the trades while giving back through programs that advance the community.

Parkland College is strengthening its long-standing automotive training partnerships through a new apprenticeship collaboration with Sam Leman Automotive Group, supporting workforce development efforts in the Champaign region.

Beginning in Bloomington-Normal and Peoria, the Sam Leman Automotive Group has since expanded into the Champaign area in recent years through the acquisition of two existing dealerships. Building on a decades-long relationship supporting Sam Leman Ford in Bloomington, the company has partnered with Parkland College to develop talent pipelines for its newest locations.

"This partnership highlights how employers and educators can work together to solve workforce challenges," Parkland Director of Apprenticeships Aimee Densmore said. "Sam Leman Automotive Group is making a strategic investment in developing its future technicians, and Parkland is proud to support that effort through high-quality training and real-world experience."

Through Parkland’s comprehensive automotive program and the Ford ASSET program (ASSET), the three-year registered apprenticeship provides students with a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. During the first two years, students attend Parkland full time while alternating between classroom learning and cooperative work experience in eight-week rotations. By graduation, participants complete nearly a full year of on-the-job experience.
 
In the third and fourth years, apprentices transition to full-time employment at a Sam Leman dealership, continuing to build technical skills while earning wages.
 
Students enrolled in the ASSET program gain access to specialized training aligned with Ford Motor Company standards, earning Ford technician credentials. Those in Parkland’s comprehensive automotive program also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
 
Participants in both pathways can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree, along with a nationally recognized completion certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program.

"At Sam Leman Automotive Group, we’re committed to developing the next generation of skilled technicians," Director of Fixed Operations Brian Langley said. "Partnering with Parkland College allows us to invest in students early, provide real-world experience, and build a reliable pipeline of talent for our growing operations in the Champaign region."
  
Currently, three apprentices from Sam Leman dealerships are enrolled in the program, with an additional four expected to begin in fall 2026.

Parkland College looks forward to expanding its apprenticeship programs and continuing to collaborate with industry leaders to create meaningful career pathways for students. Businesses in District 505 that wish to explore opportunities available within an apprenticeship program partnership may contact Densmore at adensmore@parkland.edu.

Individuals interested in applying for apprenticeship programs can learn more at parkland.edu/apprenticeship.

Read Parkland College Press Release.