By: Angela Mennecke
College of DuPage (COD) recently launched a free workforce training program aimed at preparing students for careers in the clean energy sector.
Supported by a $3.1 million grant from the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), the CEJA Aurora Workforce Hub is one of 13 hubs across Illinois. These hubs provide free training, certification preparation and skill development for entry-level positions in clean energy industries.
This initiative underscores COD’s dedication to innovation and community development, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the evolving job market and a clean energy future in Illinois.
Joe Cassidy, COD Assistant Provost, Workforce and Economic Development
The program is designed to assist individuals from Environmental Justice communities, returning citizens, displaced energy workers, foster care members/graduates and those facing general employment barriers.
COD Assistant Provost, Workforce and Economic Development, Joe Cassidy emphasized that the partnership allows the College to provide training programs that not only equip students with the essential skills for rewarding careers in the clean energy sector but also contribute to the broader goal of environmental sustainability.
“This initiative underscores COD’s dedication to innovation and community development, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the evolving job market and a clean energy future in Illinois,” he said.
The CEJA Aurora Workforce Hub offers an initial Bridge training for all enrolled students, providing 176 hours of skills-based education, including training led by a National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) master-certified instructor. Students will earn certifications in OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid, and National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core Construction.
Training is provided by COD along with partners from Quad County Urban League. Goodwill Aurora and the Kane County Sheriff's Office are assisting with recruitment and outreach efforts. Partner community colleges Waubonsee, Harper, Elgin, Triton and Kishwaukee have been key to the Hub’s launch.
Upon completion of the Bridge, students can transition into work-based learning or pursue specialized training in clean energy fields. Opportunities include roles such as solar panel installers at Sun n’ Us and positions within Nicor Gas's Energy Efficiency Program.
CEJA represents a $1 billion investment in clean energy jobs and economic development, aiming to reduce Illinois' greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. The CEJA Workforce Hubs Program is one of several initiatives under CEJA, with DCEO allocating $180 million annually to workforce and community programs that support Illinois' transition to a carbon-free future.