CEJA Workforce Programs

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Connecting talent to opportunity in Illinois' clean energy economy
​Illinois’s future depends on a skilled, inclusive clean energy workforce. Through the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), the state funds a variety of workforce development programs that prepare eligible residents for high-quality careers in the growing clean energy economy.

Together, these programs expand training access, remove employment barriers, and connect employers with qualified, career-ready candidates across the state.
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What You'll Find Here
​Each CEJA workforce program serves complementary purposes within Illinois’s clean energy ecosystem: 

1. Energy Transition (ET) Navigators

Your guide to clean energy opportunities in Illinois

ET Navigators connect job seekers, employers, community partners, and other stakeholders with CEJA programs, training opportunities, and workforce resources.


2. Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program (Workforce Hubs)

Preparing Illinois residents for clean energy careers

Fourteen regional Workforce Hubs offer no-cost training, stipends, and supportive services to prepare residents for clean energy jobs statewide.


3. Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Building foundational skills for clean energy and construction careers

Pre-apprenticeship training equips participants with the skills and experience needed to enter registered apprenticeships and trades.


4. Returning Residents Clean Jobs Training Program

Building clean energy career pathways for returning residents

Training within Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) facilities prepares participants for clean energy employment upon re-entry.


5. FEJA Solar Training Pipeline Program

Building a skilled workforce for Illinois’s growing solar industry

This program develops a pool of qualified solar installers.


6. FEJA Multi-Cultural Jobs Program

Creating pathways to clean energy careers through community-driven training

Diversity-focused community organizations deliver solar and clean energy training to strengthen representation and opportunity in the sector. 


7. FEJA Craft Apprenticeship Program

Building skilled talent for Illinois’s electric industry

Provides funding for registered apprenticeship programs in electrical, construction, and related trades. 

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How These Programs Work Together​
​Each program supports a different step in Illinois’s clean energy workforce pipeline—from community outreach and early training to advanced apprenticeships and employer connections. These CEJA workforce training programs ensure that every Illinoisan has access to the opportunities created by the state’s clean energy transition. They also build a solid foundation for other contractor and project-based CEJA opportunities.​
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Get Started
​Use the links above to explore individual programs or connect with an Energy Transition Navigator for personalized guidance on training, hiring, or partnership opportunities.