Job Corps launches recruitment drive in Illinois
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Free career training and openings available at Joliet and Paul Simon Chicago campuses
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Corps program has launched a summer recruitment drive in Illinois, offering immediate openings and free career training in the nation’s leading industries for 16- through 24-year-olds from low-income households.
“Job Corps offers a path to apprenticeships and higher-paying careers in the nation’s fastest-growing industries,” said Rachel Torres, National Director of Job Corps. “Our graduates fill a critical need for employers and the economy.”
There are two Job Corps campuses in Illinois: Joliet and Paul Simon Chicago. They offer career skills training in high-growth industry sectors, including Construction, Finance and Business, Health Care, Homeland Security, Hospitality, Information Technology, and Transportation.
Job Corps is free for ages 16–24 from low-income households who meet the eligibility requirements, and students can apply and enroll at any time. Job Corps provides hands-on career skills training, on-campus housing, meals, health care and job search assistance.
Applicants may qualify if they receive benefits such as SNAP, TANF, or free or reduced school lunch, or if they are experiencing homelessness or are a foster youth. Job Corps offers expedited enrollment for age-eligible young adults experiencing homelessness.
“For students, we are a path to careers, certifications and connections—all without student debt. For employers, we’re a possible solution to their workforce pipelines,” Torres said. “It’s a win-win for Illinoisans.”
Job Corps recently launched a revamped national website, as well as new sites for every campus nationwide. Features include virtual tours, a 24/7 virtual assistant named Corey, and an interactive map allowing users to find a Job Corps campus based on location, industry or a specific training area.
ABOUT JOB CORPS
Job Corps is a federal career technical training and education program for young people who aspire to higher-paying careers and higher education. Since 1964, the program has trained and educated more than 2 million individuals. With more than 120 residential and nonresidential campuses nationwide, training is available in the nation’s fastest-growing industries to low-income 16- through 24-year-olds. The program is free of charge for students. To learn more about Job Corps, call (800) 733-JOBS or visit www.jobcorps.gov.