CHAMPAIGN – To expand job training, career pathways and support services for East Central Illinoisans looking to enter in-demand careers, State Senator Paul Faraci secured over $400,000 for the University of Illinois through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Job Training and Economic Development program.
“Our region has been seeing steady growth in a range of career paths, like health care, education, advanced manufacturing and agricultural technology,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “I’m proud to see funding coming to the 52nd District through this round of JTED, ensuring local residents have access to high-quality job training that will directly connect workers to careers in these sought-after fields.”
Through the third round of JTED funding, $11.4 million was awarded to 23 organizations across Illinois with the goal of addressing the economic impacts experienced by employers and individuals who are underemployed, unemployed or underrepresented – including youth who have one or more barriers to employment. Through JTED, the funding will help connect workers with the skills and resources they need to enter in-demand careers in the state while helping employers build the skilled workforce they need to grow.
Through the first three rounds of the JTED program, Illinois has invested more than $46 million across 100 grants awarded to community-based organizations, supporting more than 6,300 Illinoisans. Additionally, JTED has provided support for 11,800 high school youth to train for careers in advanced manufacturing. In the current round of funding, Faraci helped secure $434,248 for the University of Illinois to expand workforce training in the 52nd District.
“The $11.4 million in grant funding awarded to community-based organizations through this latest round of the JTED program will help Illinoisans around the state,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “With assistance provided through training and other wrap-around services, underemployed, unemployed and underrepresented Illinoisans will have the critical support they need to help them find meaningful employment.”
For a full list of organizations receiving awards, click here.
