Betty  62650
When Josh came to the local Job Center, he already had a great plan for his future. He was recently laid off from a job in the banking industry and was seeking assistance to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a Personal Trainer. Josh was well organized and had researched various programs and schools in Illinois where he could acquire the training. He came to the Job Center for assistance and they could tell immediately that he was a hard worker and was serious about achieving his goals. The WIA program was able to assist Josh and he enrolled in a 6-month program where he acquired the training he needed to become a Certified Personal Trainer. Josh moved to the Chicago area where he landed the job of his dreams. Everything worked out according to his plan.

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

Betty  62650
Tom had worked for EMI, a local manufacturing facility in Jacksonville, for nearly 43 years (1966-2009), when he found out he was being laid off. Tom attended the Rapid Response Workshops and learned that there would be a Peer Counselor hired temporarily through the AFL-CIO to help fellow workers transition. He was selected for the position and was a great help to the Job Center and to many of his former co-workers. Tom knew that the Peer Counselor position was only temporary and he would soon have to make a decision about his own future. Knowing the local job market and being familiar with the health care field (his mother was a health care professional) he decided to seek assistance from the WIA Program. He was interested in the nursing program at Capital Area Career Center in Springfield and was anxious to enroll. Tom completed the CNA Program and was accepted into the School of Practical Nursing. He did extremely well in all of his classes, received his License of Practical Nursing Degree and is currently working in the emergency room at the local hospital.

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

Betty  62650
Deon was a participant in the WIA Youth Work Experience Program. He was a very quiet young man who had never worked before. He was interested in computers and was placed with a new employer to the area in their print shop. Deon could apply some of his talents in art and graphic design. It was a perfect job match, both the employer and the participant were happy. Deon proved to be a great worker; he was always on time, was eager to learn new tasks, and got along well with his co-workers. When the 10-week Work Experience Program ended, the worksite was so pleased with Deon they decided to offer him employment. Deon accepted the job. Deon has recently decided to register for college in the fall to study Graphic Art and Design.

I participated with a youth program

Carrie  61350
In December 2011, BEST, Inc. Business Service Manager and NCI Works member Dianna Schuler met with HCC in Mendota to discuss how the Peru BEST office could assist them in recruiting applicants for approximately 30 to 40 openings. As a result of that meeting, on December 27th the Peru BEST, Inc. office began accepting applications for Assembly and Welding positions. To date one hundred and fifty job seekers have since submitted their application and feedback from HCC Human Resources has been positive. The opportunity to assist HCC with their recruitment has brought job seekers into the office that might not otherwise have discovered the services available to them through our resource room and has provided the opportunity for BEST to promote its role as a workforce development agency with much to offer the business community.

I am an Employer or a Business

Betty  62650
Chris had enrolled in the Jobs for Illinois Graduates (JILG), a high school career exploration program offered to eligible juniors and seniors. He was committed to his school work and wanted to get good grades so he could graduate and attend college. Chris was considering taking classes in law enforcement or electrical training after high school. Chris also participated in the Youth Work Experience Program during the summer and proved to be an excellent and conscientious worker. In May of 2006, Chris graduated. He entered Lewis and Clark Community college that fall and qualified for their Nursing Program. While attending LCCC, Chris worked part-time as a hospital technician at a facility in St. Louis. Chris hit several roadblocks along the way, but nothing deterred him from continuing. After a particularly hard time, he met with his WIA Career Specialist regularly and she encouraged him to remain focused and stay on track to reach his goal; and that is what he did. Chris graduated in December, 2010, with an AAS-Registered Nursing Degree. Chris passed his state boards and has accepted a position with a local hospital and is earning $20/hr. Chris will excel in his career as a health care professional. He is grateful for the financial support, guidance, and career counseling he received as a result of the Workforce Investment Act Program.

I participated with a youth program

Carrie  61350
Laura came to BEST, Inc. seeking assistance with obtaining her CDL License by completing the Truck Driver program at IVCC. She successfully completed her training and received her CDL; she was so proud when she brought her CDL into the office. Laura immediately sought employment. She began by driving a straight truck, proving to her employer that she was indeed a very competent driver. She now works for the Illinois Department of Transportation and is sending her two oldest daughters to college. She is continuing her education by taking online courses and attending Ashland College in Clinton, Iowa.

I am an adult who received help getting a job

McHenry County  60098
Chloe T. - When I was 16 years-old I got my first job with the McHenry County Youth Workforce. I am now 18 years old and I am working on my third job outside of the Youth Workforce. Going into my first job with the Workforce I had no idea what to expect or even how to act. The Workforce Specialist changed that all for me! With weekly workshops and their nonstop availability to Workforce members, I was able to gain confidence in my career skills. All of my jobs with the Workforce taught me to be humble in the workplace, to never be afraid to ask for help, to be patient and thoughtful, to have respect and to persevere, even when it is difficult. They also taught me different skills such as customer service, computer skills, and people skills. Every job that I have interviewed for since I left the Workforce has offered me a position. This is all thanks to the specialists that taught me everything I know about getting a job, especially in this type of economy. The Workforce does more than anyone can possibly think of for so many youth. It goes beyond just helping youth find jobs, it teaches lessons and life skills. I am proud to say that while I was a member of the Workforce I graduated high school early. I am currently on the Dean’s List at my community college and I will be moving out of state this year to further my career opportunities. I believe that this is all thanks to the McHenry County Youth Workforce who led me back onto the right path when I was veering in a different direction. I would like to see the Youth Workforce stay around for a long time to help other youth who are struggling or even just need the opportunity for job placement. The Workforce is a great program that I owe my job success and one day, my career, to.

I participated with a youth program

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