Workforce Empowerment Initiative job training programs Open House

Heartland Community College will hold an open house for individuals interested in the short-term job training opportunities funded by the Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI). 

The WEI Spring Open House events will be held on Thursday, April 16, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Community Commons Building (CCB) on the Heartland Main Campus at 1500 West Raab Road in Normal.

Participants will learn about eligibility for WEI programs and the enrollment process. Faculty and staff of WEI programs will be on hand to discuss the coursework and career pathways. The Open House will also feature a panel of students who have navigated the program and are now seeing the rewards of their hard work. 

The Workforce Empowerment Initiative was established in 2019 as an innovative partnership with the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, and community colleges. The WEI consortium works to create, support, and expand job training opportunities for areas with identified workforce skills gaps. The WEI grant supports short-term training opportunities, career and technical education certificates, and stackable credentials at Heartland.

The grant is targeted toward low-income learners to facilitate career training that can move recipients quickly into the workforce. Funds provide tuition and services including success coaching and career navigation support, technology support, transportation, and childcare needs. 

Heartland offers 12 certificate programs supported by WEI that can be completed within one year, leading to immediate careers. Prospective learners who are interested in workforce programs may be eligible for scholarship opportunities. 

Participants can sign up for this free event at by completing this online form.