Success Stories

Robert H.

"I had the privilege of working with Andrew Pajak, a career planner at the Will County Workforce Center, and his assistance was instrumental in helping me navigate the path to employment and educational resources. Andrew's expertise and dedication truly stood out throughout the process. I went to the Will County Workforce Center due to being unemployed and seeking resume assistance as well as information about WIOA scholarship. Signed up for the WIOA scholarship to propel me to the next level. After going over different training providers, I decided that MicroTrain would fit my needs and help me succeed within my professional career. Andrew's commitment to my success was evident in his ongoing support, providing valuable insights into the current job market demands and helping me strategically plan my educational and career path. His collaborative efforts with MicroTrain showcased a seamless integration of resources, ultimately enhancing my journey toward employment and skill development. I am truly grateful for the resources offered at the Will County Workforce Center and Andrew's unwavering support and expertise, which not only equipped me with the necessary skills but also opened doors to a rewarding career that aligns with my passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others. His holistic approach to career planning made a lasting impact on my journey, and I am now thriving in a role as Manager of Donor Relations at Cornerstone Services."

Zoe

Zoe Griffin achieved the first of many goals for herself; first, Zoe attended Genesis Healthcare Institute and went through the Patient Care Technician program where she achieved certifications in CNA, Phlebotomy, and EKG. Next, Zoe was able to apply and was interviewed for a position at Silver Cross Hospital for a CNA position to which she was offer the position. “I never thought I would get an opportunity like this one after being a stay-at-home mom. I heard from my friends that Will County was providing a scholarship for those who are interested. I never imagined that I would make it this far after being given this opportunity. I can now proudly say that I just accepted an offer to work in a hospital setting. I want to thank Andrew for really caring for my future and helping me through this process. It’s never too late to achieve your dreams and change your life for the better.” This is the start of her healthcare journey, where she would love to become a RN. Congratulations Zoe for achieving your dream! This is the start of your journey!

Shawn

Shawn was released from prison in October 2023 after serving a 30-year sentence. Determined to start anew, he sought help from the workforce center, where his brother brought him to create a resume and explore employment opportunities. Despite the many changes he encountered after decades away, Shawn was eager to learn and adapt to new technologies. He secured a job at a local manufacturer but soon realized his ambition to become a CDL driver. Shawn was referred to the supplemental grants program, which funded his CDL training at Advantage Truck Driving School. Committed to his goal, he dedicated himself to studying both in and out of class. After successfully earning his CDL license, Shawn interviewed with NFI Industries and was offered an on-the-job training (OJT) opportunity. This program provided wage reimbursement to the company, allowing Shawn to gain experience in his new role. Shawn completed his OJT and is now employed full-time with NFI Industries. He expresses deep gratitude for the second chance he’s been given, and with support from various programs, he has successfully found stable employment within a year of his release. This accomplishment significantly reduces his chances of recidivism and marks a positive new chapter in his life.

Chris H.

"I started the process with Will County in October 2022 and was approved and ready to start my training program in November 2022. I was able to train with MicroTrain Technologies to obtain all of my certifications. I am now working for National Able as an Education Consultant, while applying the knowledge and skills I obtained throughout the Will County program."

Antonio

Antonio came to the Will County Workforce Center, while he was going through Will County Problem Solving Court. He was interested in becoming a barber and was excited that we could help him with his tuition. With the support of close friends and family, Antonio was able to complete all his eligibility and has been attending classes for the last 5 months at All About U Barber College in Crest Hill, IL. He has been working diligently on completing his 120 hours of classroom studies, while practicing on mannequins and customers. Antonio is expected to graduate in September 2024 from the Will County Problem Solving Court.

George O.

"Through the workforce program I was able to go through the nursing program successfully and part of the graduating class of May 2022. When I joined the workforce development program, I was only a CNA working multiple shifts to support myself and my growing family. I had a limited amount of time to study, and my results were not so great. The Workforce Services program supported my tuition and books. The financial support helped me cut down on work and focus more on academics. The career planners also helped with how to write resumes and even prepare for job interviews. They were very quick in responding to emails. I joined the workforce program as a CNA and after the first year in the nursing program, I qualified and passed the LPN NCLEX. I am currently preparing to take the NCLEX RN. This is my story and I credit workforce services for helping me get to this point. I am so grateful. "

Borowski Race Engines

Borowski Race Engines, a manufacturer of high-end custom engines, has garnered industry acclaim due to their unwavering commitment to quality. A key driver of their excellent reputation is undoubtedly their consistent investment in their workforce. This commitment has been bolstered by a longstanding partnership with the Business Services Team at the WCWSD, where Borowski has frequently utilized Employee Training grants over the course of its decades-long history. By fostering a culture of training and development, Borowski serves as an exemplar for small businesses seeking substantial rewards through upskilling their workforce. Consider Senior Engine Technician Kevin Schoenbeck’s recent achievement: he traveled to Ballground, Georgia, to receive Electronic Fuel Injection Tuning training from FuelTech USA. This training not only enhances Kevin’s position at Borowski but also contributes to his overall employability. Simultaneously, Borowski gains increased capacity and depth in this crucial, highly specialized skill set. From the Business Services Team: Congratulations to Kevin and Borowski Race Engines!

Edward G.

Edward received his Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) Certificate through the Symbol Training Institute using the Workforce Services Division’s Career Scholarship program. Upon completing the program, the Business Services Team shared Edward's resume with Joliet Metallurgical Laboratory, who was working on an Incumbent Worker Training project to provide their employees with Continuous Improvement and Kaizen Training. As a small shop with limited recruitment resources, JML was excited for the reference, and Edward was excited for the opportunity!

DRF Water Heating Solutions

For DRF Water Heating Solutions, investing in their workforce is more than just a phrase they put in job postings. With the support of the Will Upskill grant, DRF was able to upskill a diverse segment of their staff and administrators. The trainees who underwent this 14-hour course had titles ranging from Apprentice Plumber to Chief Program Manager. Employees came together to learn how to identify and address issues that lead to poor results and strained relationships, discern facts from perceptions, actively listen, and take actionable steps that result in improved outcomes based on communication. Receiving the Will Upskill grant was DRF’s first interaction with Workforce Services and they have already realized the value in simply having a relationship and open dialogue with the Business Services Team (BST). Around the time training was set to begin the BST was able to help fill an open Apprentice Plumber role by connecting the folks at DRF with a qualified candidate currently enrolled in the Career Scholarship program!

Stephanie

Stephanie has been bartending for 15+ years and has struggled to find a meaningful career, yet still make a decent wage. Stephanie came to the Will County Workforce Center to request assistance with her career change. She had always wanted to join the healthcare industry and finally discovered that she would like to go to school for Dental Assisting at Joliet Junior College. Stephanie was our 1st participant and became a model student. She just completed her Dental Assisting Certificate in April 2024 and started working as a Dental Assistant at Da Vinci Dental in Naperville, IL. Stephanie is excited about her career change and is thankful for the grant that was able to pay for her classes

Gabriela

"The Connect to Your Future Program guided me to achieve my degree and supported me when I needed it most. When I met the Connect to Your Future counselor, I was a month away from graduating high school. I had only been in this country for a year, and my English was limited. Connect to Your Future allowed me to overcome all my barriers and become the first in my family to earn a college degree. It also gave me the tools to navigate the professional field successfully. Connect to Your Future helped me develop my curriculum and practice professional interviews. Currently, I am a registered nurse pursuing a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Sometimes, I still wonder where I would be if not for the Connect to Your Future program. I would love for more people to have the opportunity I had so they can discover their full potential, as I did."

Amanda

Amanda has been working with Will County Problem Solving Court since January 2023. She described her life prior to drug courts as “using and jus servicing day to day, I didn’t have any goals and wasn’t doing anything with my life.” Today Amanda prides herself on being more positive and remaining sober to help keep her life in order. Amanda has been sober since April 12, 2022 and her support system consists of her family and fiancé. Amanda states, “drug court completely changed my life, it has help me make positive life changes.” She states, “my sobriety has made my relationships better because people can count on me, my word means something now.” Amanda’s goals are to remain employed as a server at a steak house, complete her Medical Billing and Coding classes, complete the remaining steps in the program, and eventually sponsor someone. Amanda graduated from the Will County Problem Solving Court in May 2024. Congratulations to Amanda!

Amber

Amber is proud to be off probation. Amber stated, “this scholarship helped me get me back on my feet and opened the door to a job wasn’t available before.” 160 Driver Academy has assisted Amber after graduation with any questions about driving. Amber stated, “this job is a 2nd chance at life.” Amber received training for 70 hours through Western Express and continued with an over-the-road position, out 12-16 days at a time. These are the pictures Amber was happy to share with us

Workforce Success Stories

Robert H.

Zoe

Shawn

Chris H.

Antonio

George O.

Borowski Race Engines

Edward G.

DRF Water Heating Solutions

Stephanie

Gabriela

Amanda

Amber

Get in touch
with us.

Contact info

Hours of Operation

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Workforce Success Stories

Robert H.

Zoe

Shawn

Chris H.

Antonio

George O.

Borowski Race Engines

Edward G.

DRF Water Heating Solutions

Stephanie

Gabriela

Amanda

Amber

Get in touch with us.

Contact info

Hours of Operation

Find More Assistance

Get in touch
with us.