Skilled to Build: Developing the Future Manufacturing Workforce

Geographic Scope: Illinois

Focus Areas:

• Workforce development and upskilling
• English Language Acquisition training
• Micro-apprenticeships
• Manufacturing career pathways

Award Details:

• Eight grants awarded in 2023 round
• $50,000 per grant (with potential for matching funds)
• Example: Waubonsee Community College received $50,000 and matched with additional $50,000 for total project budget of $100,000

Eligibility: Community colleges and educational institutions partnering with manufacturers

Project Focus:
The grant funds innovative solutions for today's manufacturing sector, including:

• Developing workplace literacy models for non-native English-speaking employees
• On-site English Language Acquisition instruction contextualized to specific manufacturing processes and procedures
• Micro-apprenticeships providing paid work experience to individuals with limited work history
• Introduction to manufacturing career opportunities
• Temporary employee placement funded through grant at no cost to employer partners

Partner Organization: Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC)