Robyn  62526
Increased demand in the energy markets and the pump, compressor and electric motor industries found the Decatur Foundry, a manufacturer of iron castings in Decatur, with a need to increase its workforce by 50%. Using Workforce Investment Act funds provided by DCEO, the Macon DeWitt Workforce Investment Board worked with the employer to find and recruit qualified candidates, provide skill upgrade training and the personal equipment necessary for the new hires to join the Decatur Foundry workforce. The company was on a fast track to hire and wanted to move quickly. Positions available included forklift operators, furnace operators, grinders, inspectors, painters, molders, quality technicians, supervisors and welders. Salaries ranged from $10.75 to $23 per hour with the option of insurance and profit sharing. This was a great opportunity for unemployed and underemployed individuals in Decatur and the surrounding areas. The Decatur Foundry has been extremely happy with the quality of candidates interviewed and has hired 50 new employees. National Emergency Grant On-the-Job Training incentives provide support for 18 of those employees (long-term unemployed 22 weeks or more) and the Foundry anticipates hiring another 10 molders within the next week. They also continue to review applications for other positions. The company is excited about the partnership with Workforce Investment Solutions and very pleased with the work ethic of their new employees. The new employees are excited about their new employment and speak highly of the company. Without the grant from DCEO and the Workforce Investment Boards supportive services, some could not have afforded the necessary work supplies like grind helmets, prescription safety glasses, safety wear, steel-toed boots and warm work clothes. Both the employer and the employees are thankful for the On-the-Job Training program funded by DCEO and the opportunity that it has provided. This is a prime example of how DCEO and the local workforce investment areas assist businesses with their hiring needs and job seekers with obtaining gainful employment.

I am an Employer or a Business

Phillip  62702
I started the UCP Advancing Opportunities Program in the fall of 2010 as a senior at Lanphier High School. My teachers spoke very highly of me and said that I would be a great candidate for the program. Soon after, I was placed into a paid work experience at the Courtyard Hotel where I worked with the assistance of a job coach in the laundry room. I worked 20 hours per week. I had a strong work ethic and did everything that was asked of me by both my job coach and the Manager of the Hotel. As my work experience continued with the support of the program & through the course of the school year- I became the main person responsible for laundry and began completing tasks on my own with less and less assistance from my job coach. I also became responsible for additional housekeeping duties as needed. I graduated from High School in June 2011. Due to my hard work and dedication, the Hotel Management decided to hire me on as a permanent hotel employee. I was very excited to be hired and was ready for the new challenges at work. The hotel staff continued to try me out in different capacities within the department, and I was able to learn the routines very quickly. I am still working, I am very happy with my job, and like having the opportunity to always get to build on my skills and learn new things. I am a great example of how the WIA programs can produce successful young workers. I was also a recipient of a 2011 youth Individual Achievement Award at the November 2011 WIB awards dinner/ceremony.

I participated with a youth program

Charles  62656
I was a 57 year-old married US Navy Veteran who was laid off from Ameren where I worked as a Corrective Action Specialist. My position was eliminated by contract, so I started receiving unemployment benefits. I went to the WIA Program in February of 2010. At first, I was not sure of what I wanted to do, but decided on Global Tech in Lincoln. I had a BS from Southern Illinois in Industrial Technology, but was unable to obtain self-sufficient employment & needed to gain marketable skills which would allow me to be more competitive in today’s job market. I was accepted into the HVAC training program at Global Tech. I successfully completed my certification on June 10, 2010. With the assistance of my workforce advisor, I was able to secure employment at Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home in Lincoln. I began working there on Monday, September 27th as a Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics/Installer. Since that time, I have been able to attain employment in the weatherization program with DCEO. I was awarded an Individual Achievement Award at the November 2011 Annual WIB awards dinner and ceremony.

I received Dislocated Worker and Trade Adjustment Act (TAA or TGAA) Services

Timothy  62568
When I came into the WIA office, my work experience consisted primarily of working in food service and brief employment as a stocker for Toys R Us. I had been laid off from Toys R Us and Casey’s General Store and was collecting unemployment insurance. I graduated from Taylorville High School in 2009 and had a learning disability in reading. I was able to read very well, but had challenges when it came to comprehension and writing. My disability was making it difficult for me to pass various pre-employment tests thus I could not find employment. I wanted a job where I would have skills and opportunity for jobs in the future. I liked working with my hands and through career advising, I began exploring the welding field. I was accepted into the Journeyman Welder II program at Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) and started training in February 2010. The WIA program assisted with paying for training at MTI including tuition, books, tools, lab fees and industry certification tests. I also traveled approximately 58 miles round-trip back and forth to MTI each day. I successfully completed the program in November of 2010 with a cumulative grade point average of 3.5. I successfully obtained employment quickly. I started working for GSI in Taylorville as a Packer/Welder and have recently changed jobs and am now working at MBM in Taylorville. I am thankful to the WIA program for helping me overcome hurdles and complete this goal. I was also nominated and received the 2011 Individual Achievement Award for Christian County on November 14th, 2011.

I am an adult who received help getting a job

Ashleigh  62613
I first came into the Menard County workNet office, in Petersburg, with my mother and my son at the end of 2010. I was planning to move back to Menard County; I was 19, and a single parent living on my own with my 18 month old son, and wanting to start a new life near my family. Through numerous resources, the workNet staff and I came up with a plan and I enrolled in the Medical Office Assistant training program at First Institute. This training gave me the medical office experience that I needed and helped improve my work readiness and academic skills. I graduated with a 4.0 grade point average and had also completed job shadowing at Memorial Medical Center. After training, I began a spring work experience opportunity. My training and work experience in the health care field provided the motivation for me to be accepted into the CNA program that I am attending today. Sunny Acres Nursing Home, located in Petersburg, IL was able to provide me with a work experience. I successfully completed my work experience and am now a permanent employee working part-time at Sunny Acres. I am currently working and attending a CNA training program. I was also presented an Individual Achievement Award as the Menard County award recipient for LWIA 20 on November 14th, 2011.

I participated with a youth program

Donna  62703
I lost my job in March of 2009 due to the current economic environment. I was permanently laid off – my position eliminated. I had worked at General Casualty Insurance for the past 24 years and worked my way up to a supervisor position as Claim Unit Mgr. I was at a complete loss of what to do; I had no education beyond high school. I was receiving UI and had been actively looking for work for over 5 months. I felt that my age and lack of marketable skills were preventing me from obtaining self-sufficient employment. So, I went to the workNet Center and was interested in pursuing a new career as an LPN. I enrolled in the LPN program at the CASPN in the fall of 2009. I maintained nearly an A average and did not miss a single day of school! I felt that going back to school through WIA, gave me the confidence I needed in order to do things I never thought possible. I successfully completed the LPN program in August 2010. Soon after, I passed my state boards and began working permanently at SIU School of Medicine as an LPN in October of 2010. I am still working in the pediatric services department and am happy to be employed again! I also received the Individual Achievement Award for Sangamon County at the Annual WIB/ Awards dinner and ceremony held on November 14th, 2011.

I received Dislocated Worker and Trade Adjustment Act (TAA or TGAA) Services

Kim  62946
Stephanie came into our office, May 2009 looking for employment after having a labor dispute with her previous employer, Sonic Drive Inn. She worked for them for four years part-time and was disappointed. She had been out of work for three months. I helped her get a part-time job as a personal assistant through the Department of Rehabilitation Services. While monitoring her work ethics with her employer through DORS, I asked her if she wanted to work another part time job. She said yes. June of 2009, she started our Summer Youth Program, as a clerical worker at Personal Finance Company in Harrisburg, working 35 hours per week. I knew she had potential to do something great. I approached her about attending college and she informed me she could not afford it on her own. She stated she would love to attend Southeastern Illinois College in Harrisburg, and try to get her Associates Degree in Business Management. We looked at her income and seen that she would meet the eligibility criteria for the program. I took her application and presented it to the Selection Committee. They thought she would be a good candidate for training. She enrolled in classes the Fall of 2009. While attending college, she also worked on our work experience program as a youth. Stephanie received her Associates Degree in Business Management and Accounting, July 2011. An employee at Personal Finance Company took another job, and a full time opening as a Customer Service Representative became available. Ryan Collins, her supervisor, hired Stephanie for the position. This young lady worked two part time jobs totaling over fifty hours a week and was a full time student with an overall GPA of 3.24 based on 4.0. Stephanie is an excellent example of how we put our training dollars to work.

I am an adult who received help getting a job

Kim  62946
Precious Davis came to Shawnee Development Council as a 19 year old high school graduate on referral from her DORS transition specialist. She was enrolled in the Accounting program at Shawnee Community College with the long term goal of earning a Bachelor's degree in accounting. Despite low test scores, Precious did well at Shawnee, including membership in Phi Beta Lambda, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and other campus organizations. She also participated in the youth work experience component. Her worksite supervisor at the Pulaski County State Attorney's office was impressed with her work and potential and encouraged her to complete her Bachelor's Degree at Southern Illinois University. He also talked to a member of the Board of Trustees at SIU noting, "Ms. Davis is conscientious, punctual, and dedicated. She is a true pleasure to work with". Armed with enthusiasm and encouragement from family and friends, Precious did enroll at SIU and earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting in December 2010. Despite many challenges, including transportation issues and the loss of the family home due to fire, Precious persevered and came out on top. She is now employed by the Alexander County Circuit Clerk's office as a deputy clerk. In addition, she continues to work part-time for the Shawnee Community College - Cairo Extension office. She is a testament to what one can accomplish with dedication, determination, and hard-work.

I participated with a youth program

Kim  62946
Maura came into the Mid-5 office in May of 2009 seeking assistance with her schooling to complete the Occupational Therapy Assistant program through Southeastern Illinois College in Harrisburg. I did an intake and assessment on her and found her eligible for the Title 1A (49%) program. Maura had worked from the time she was 16 years old and was working part time as a cashier at Murphy’s Do It Center. She was already enrolled at SIC and had completed two semesters and entering intercession classes. I presented her application before the Selection Committee and she was chosen to participate in the training program. The OTA program was through SICCM, where she had to be accepted into the program through a pool of students and only so many are accepted. Shortly after enrolling her into training, Maura found out she was four months pregnant. This young lady worked part time, went to school full time, along with her clinicals, was pregnant, planned a wedding, and received her Associate Degree in May 2011. She is now working for Parkway Manor in Marion, Illinois, making $25.00 an hour. She also holds a second job working for Joyner Therapy in Harrisburg. This is what I call determination and dedication of having a dream and not letting anything get in the way of fulfilling it.

I am an adult who received help getting a job

Kim  62946
James was laid off from his job in 2008. He wanted to get a degree in Diesel Equipment Technology in order to get a job and to better himself and his family. He came to the Wabash Area Development office in search of assistance with his Tuition/Books/Fees. James worked hard in his studies by maintaining straight A's and 1 B. James was very dedicated in his participation in the Dislocated Worker Program and with his studies. He proved himself at Dee Drilling, were he performed his internship, and they hired him full time as soon as he graduated in May 2011.

I received Dislocated Worker and Trade Adjustment Act (TAA or TGAA) Services

Michelle  62703
In April 2011 Kayla completed the First Institute Training and Management Medical Office Assistant Program with a 4.0 grade point average. Despite juggling schedules and raising two children, Kayla was very dedicated to her school work and being a leader in the class. She was always willing to go the extra mile to help her fellow students, and on several occasions would even help with study sessions. She was very determined to reach the goals she had set for herself. She understood that it is important to set goals that are within her reach, and to take the necessary steps in order to achieve them. Kayla was the first student in her class to get her resume out there and find employment. She secured a part-time operator position at Springfield Clinic in the Telenurse Department. Within one month she was offered a full-time position. Even more recently, Kayla has once again moved up at the Springfield Clinic. She now works as a receptionist in cardiology. From time-to-time she also still covers for others in her former position. She loves her new job and steady Monday –Friday hours. She has accomplished all of this within the past 7 months. Kayla was the recipient of one of the 2011 Individual Achievement Awards at the 2011 WIB awards dinner/ceremony.

I participated with a youth program

Michelle  62703
D’Alecia participated in and successfully completed the Prepare Youth to Work Program - which provided her a great amount of support. As a single-parent attending school and seeking employment – the support provided by the program & staff really made a difference in her success. While working hard to complete the Prepare Youth to Work Program Curriculum and her required classes towards attaining her high school diploma, D’Alecia was also placed into a paid internship at Cast Industries as a shipping and receiving clerk. Some of her job duties included fulfilling orders based on specification, bagging items according to shipping requirements, and retrieving items by stock number, tasks which may sound simple to some of us, but are actually quite complex. D’Alecia’s employer evaluations contained very complimentary comments such as: gets along well with co-workers, retains what is taught, follows directions, and comes to work “ready to go”. D’Alecia took advantage of this opportunity to do her best and use it as a stepping stone to gain full-time employment. Upon completion of her internship, D’Alecia was asked to stay on as a permanent employee where she still currently works full-time, 40 hours per week and continues to do a great job. Soon after being hired, she also attained her high school diploma. D’Alecia received an Individual Achievement Award at the November 14th 2011 Annual WIB/Awards Dinner and ceremony for her dedication, focus, and for emulating the true meaning of a successful WIA Youth participant.

I participated with a youth program

MORGAN  62523
I wanted to be able to provide for my children and be a good role model for them. I wanted to increase my skills to enhance my chances for employment as well. I completed the Work Place Skills program and was chosen for two internship opportunities, which helped me develop good work habits. I am currently enrolled in the Health Care Program at the Adult Education and Training Center with the hopes of getting into the next CNA class. I completed a work experience at the Illinois workNet Center as a receptionist. I did a great job, and my positive attitude and dedication has helped to make me an “excellent employee”.

I participated with a youth program

BreInna  62526
I am fully aware of all the pressures in life that can come along and I know what it’s like to be a single mom, but I also wanted a better life for my son and me. I knew that I needed to increase my skills to improve my options for employment. I completed the 40 hour Basic Computer Class, Introduction to Health Care and the Certified Nursing Assistant Program at the Education and Training Center. With the assistance of the Employment and Training Center and Workforce Investment Solutions, I obtained the skills necessary to provide for my family. I am currently employed with Heritage Manor in Clinton as a CNA.

I participated with a youth program

Deterious  62526
I craved a brighter future for myself and my perseverance is paying off. I finished my GED, and with the assistance of the Workforce Investment Solutions summer youth program, I graduated from HVAC training and obtained a work experience position in an entry-level job in the HVAC Industry. Throughout my work experience, I proved myself to my employer and was recently hired by Design Heating and Air Conditioning as a full time employee. I am thankful for the services of Workforce Investment Solutions and the Adult Education and Training Center. I now use the skills I learned in school, and am trying to be a good role model for my friends and family and want to be a shining example that others can look up to.

I participated with a Summer Youth Employment Program

Susan  60050
In May 2009, I became part of the astonishing unemployment statistics. However, when I lost my job, I decided that I was going to make it the “best thing that ever happened to me”. Due to the circumstances of my job loss, I qualified for the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program. This program helped me with retraining as well as discounts/tax credits for my health insurance. In the current workforce, it has become increasingly important to have an education. So, I decided to complete my bachelor’s degree. I already had completed my associates’ degree; I had taken advantage of the tuition reimbursement program my former employer had offered when times were good. With the help of my case manager, Lori at the McHenry County Workforce Network, and the counselors at Colombia College, we developed a plan to complete my bachelor’s degree in the time allotted for the program. To get some valuable experience along the way and fill in the employment gaps on my resume, I found a part time job in my new career field. After I completed my degree in May 2011, the doors opened for me. The education that I have received has made a huge difference in my employment opportunities. I have now accepted a position as an Accountant/Payroll Analyst with United Airlines. My goal of making my job loss the “best thing that ever happened to me” would not have been realized without the assistance of the McHenry County Workforce Network, the TAA program and especially the support and encouragement I received from my case manager Lori. To all who have helped and supported me, I am truly grateful. It was a lot of hard work, but it is already paying off.

I received Dislocated Worker and Trade Adjustment Act (TAA or TGAA) Services

Ladonna  61764
Lesli received a Medical Administrative Assistant AAS 10 years ago. Once she completed this program she began doing medical transcription work at home. Later she transitioned into medical billing where she remained until she was laid off in 2009. After being laid off, she decided to stay in the field she was already in but she knew she needed to update her skills and knowledge as the healthcare environment is ever changing. Lesli decided to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). To do this, she first had to obtain an associate’s degree in Health Information Management. Going back to school on her own was out of the question. Thanks to WIA, Lesli was able to achieve this goal. Lesli completed the Health Information Management AAS at Joliet Junior College. Lesli is now gainfully employed, using her training and enjoying her position every day. Having job security is an added bonus. When asked how she would measure the success she has achieved through this program, Lesli said "I’ve always been able to find a job but now I can say I have a career. With this career comes many options."

I was laid off from my job and received training

Ladonna  61764
Monica: Grundy Workforce Services “I worked for a company called Sapa Extrusion, formally called Alcoa, for 10.5 years. I started off as a machine operator, worked my way up to a team leader and finally a group leader. The company closed in 2009 due to the declining economy. I was laid off and knew this was the perfect time for me to go back to school. Although I had supervisory experience, most companies want you to have an associate’s degree to go along with it. I am going for an associate’s degree in management/supervision at Joliet Junior College. I have 6 more classes to complete my associate’s degree. WIA is an important program to the people of Illinois because it will help those who have been laid off to achieve an associate’s degree or certificate/trade which, in the long run, will help them receive a better job. The action that I took was to complete the testing to qualify for the WIA program. Met with the counselor and talked about what I was interested in and followed all of the WIA policies. One of the positive changes that has happened in my life since WIA is I am much closer than ever in receiving an associate’s degree. I am actually doing better in school now with a family and a full time job then what I did when I was younger and fresh out of high school. Also with the help of my wonderful counselor, I found a job paying me a better salary then I was making at Sapa. I am currently working at International Titanium Products as a general laborer for $20 per hour. I have also learned how to write a resume and learned different techniques for interviewing. These are other valuable services offered through my local workforce office. WIA is an awesome program! Being able to complete this program with an associate’s degree will be a great achievement. I don't really think I would have taken the initiative to go back to school without the help from the WIA program.”

I was laid off from my job and received training

Ladonna  61764
Ann: Livingston Workforce Services Ann was a dislocated worker when she came into the Livingston Workforce Services inquiring about our services. She was interested in Radiography program at Parkland College but hoped to transfer to Heartland Community College once they got their program started. She took her pre-requisite classes before getting accepted into Heartland's Radiography Program. In December, she graduated and became a licensed Radiographer. Ann is now employed as a Radiographer at Advocate Medical Group and is continuing her education on her own at Carl Sandburg College in their Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.

I was laid off from my job and received training

Chicago Career Tech  60601
Founded in 2010, Chicago Career Tech leverages public-private partnerships to offer unemployed emerging-and middle-income Chicago residents the training needed to learn the skills necessary to obtain and succeed in high demand technology-based careers.

To date, over 700 unemployed Chicago residents and 150 businesses and nonprofit organizations have participated in this program. A significant amount of Chicago Career Tech's financial support - $1.3 million - comes from State of Illinois WIA funding.
View Chicago Career Tech WIA Letter of Support

Sally  61021
Amy came to BEST Inc. for assistance in earning her high school diploma and attaining employment. Amy knew her goals would be difficult to achieve. She worked with a Career Advisor to plan the steps she would need to take. She enrolled into a GED program and participated in a paid internship experience where she could learn basic job skills. She was referred to organizations that could help with her other concerns. She also participated in workshops on self-management and money management at BEST. Through it all, she was an enthusiastic learner and was often observed supporting her fellow trainees as they, too, struggled with various challenges. But Amy didn’t experience immediate success. She had to drop GED classes when she found a job because she simply didn’t have time to manage all of her responsibilities, including the needs of her three young children, at the same time. The job eventually ended and Amy returned to GED classes, even more determined. She worked hard and pushed herself to earn the certificate as quickly as possible. She was successful and began her job search with fresh optimism. However, the tight economy made it difficult and BEST assigned her to work a paid internship while she continued her search for permanent employment. Amy’s internship site was so impressed with her work ethic and commitment that she was hired on a permanent, full-time employee.

I participated with a youth program

Sally  61021
Shannon overcame significant personal obstacles to achieve success. As a single mother, she found it difficult to manage the full-time LPN program at Sauk Valley Community College and scrape together enough money to meet her basic needs each week. BEST Inc. assisted her with the cost of her training, books, uniforms, supplies, transportation and child care. Organized and persistent, Shannon did not allow her personal circumstances to stand in the way of achieving her goals. She did everything she could to get the best experience, most knowledge, and highest grade in every class. She earned President’s List and Dean’s List honors and was rewarded with an invitation to join Phi Theta Kappa, which is an honor society that recognizes and encourages academic achievement. Her commitment to her academics and dedication to serving others was obvious to her instructors. One instructor wrote on Shannon’s clinical site evaluation how impressed she was that Shannon went out of her way to advocate for a patient in pain and commented on her eagerness to learn and be successful while dealing with her own very serious illness that almost forced Shannon to quit the program. Shannon earned her LPN certificate and is currently taking classes toward the pursuit of an RN degree. She is working in the nursing field and was recently promoted after a short time on the job. Shannon is grateful to BEST Inc. for believing in her ability to become self-sufficient and being willing to invest so much financial and emotional support in the past two years.

I am an adult who received help getting a job

Renata  60542
Matthew worked in the printing business from 1993 to 2008. He was involved in customer service at both positions. His last position was with CRC Print in Prospect Heights for over three years and he was laid off due to general economic conditions. Matthew did not have a degree or certificate of training in a high growth profession, and he struggled to find employment. Matthew decided to begin school at the College of DuPage for Respiratory Therapy. Through the clinical work that Matthew has been doing at area hospitals, he has received an offer of employment from Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb. He is very excited about that and loved his time there. Matthew has approximately one more year to go before he obtains his AAS in Respiratory Therapy. Matthew really enjoys school and is excited about the opportunities that await him.

I was laid off from my job and received training

Renata  60542
Christopher Fredericks is a 41 year old, single parent of one child. He was laid-off as an Assembler/Machine Operator. He wanted to learn the skills he would need that would lead him towards a career, not just another job. After researching the field, he decided on a position in welding. He was determined he would attend every class and be a role model for to his daughter, even if that meant he had to walk to school. He completed the training program and graduated with high honors. He plans to put as much effort into his job search as he did his training.

I was laid off from my job and received training

Renata  60542
Price is a 30 year old single male who had been job searching for over 18 months. His last full time employment was through a staffing agency as a customer service representative. He was employed for 11 months, however, his position was eliminated due to downsizing and temp to hire staff were the first employees to be laid off. Price applied for WIA services in Elgin and expressed an interest in the trucking industry. He attended a CDL workshop to obtain information regarding the industry, contacted training vendors, and completed his career research. Once he was determined eligible for WIA services and a good candidate for skills retraining, Price attended a 4 week CDL A training program. Prior to enrollment into training, Price was able to obtain pre-hire letters from major trucking companies. Price was able to pass his exam with flying colors, and after a few weeks as a driver trainee, is now a full-time truck driver and enjoying his new found career. Price is extremely grateful for all the services he received through the WIA program and the Kane County Department of Employment and Education (KCDEE).

I was laid off from my job and received training