Businesses

Partner with CLC

We support businesses and nonprofit organizations in Lake County

We provide a wide range of services, from starting or expanding your business to boosting your team’s productivity. We also connect you with top talent among CLC students and graduates.

In CLC, you find a partner who wants to see your business succeed as much as you do. Together, we make Lake County stronger and more prosperous.

Connect to solutions, optimize outcomes and partner for success with CLC.

Making an impact

830 students engaged in job fairs on campus and 1,298 had one-on-one appointments to prepare for the workforce
1,385 students registered on Handshake, an online job platform, looking for employment
81 apprentices completed courses in 8 degree areas while working on site at 16 employer partners

Source: CLC Community Impact Report 2025

Join the Manufacturing Alliance

Visionaries and innovators are transforming the future of regional manufacturing. Access top talent, build a stronger network, and develop a positive culture to attract and retain employees to your business.

Learn about the Alliance

Discover talent development solutions

Drive employee development and business success with tailored training solutions.

Upskill your organization

Start or expand your small business

The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides no-cost expert advice, training and tools for Lake County small businesses.

Consult small business experts

Hire CLC students and graduates

Post your job openings for CLC students and alumni. Work with us to set up internship or apprenticeship opportunities.

Tap into CLC talent

Give to your community

Volunteer your time, talent and resources to develop tomorrow's employees.

Support the CLC Foundation

Share your career expertise

Work with CLC

Vendors, do business with CLC! Use your services to help CLC students and Lake County community members thrive.

Become a vendor

Host your event at CLC

CLC has a wide range of top-notch rental venues. We offer reasonable rates with discounts for nonprofits.

View event venues

What employers and students say about CLC

Todd Ludlow
President, Ludlow Manufacturing
“The college has made meaningful strides in strengthening its collaboration with local businesses, ensuring that educational programs align more closely with the skills and competencies we seek in the workforce.”
A CLC alum, Todd serves on the CLC Welding and Fabrication Technology career advisory committee and Manufacturing Alliance executive committee.
Read a Q&A with Todd
Katy King
Senior Talent Sourcing Specialist, Advocate Health Care
“The college is truly dedicated to helping students and graduates find employment opportunities that match their skills and interests.”
CLC is a member of the Lake County Workforce Ecosystem. This results in meaningful connections that benefit students, employers and community.
Explore health science programs
Chris Rudolph
Owner, Rudolph Certified Public Accounting
“Our CPA firm has hired CLC interns for years, and the experience has been wonderful. The students have gained real-world professional experience while attending school.”
Through internships, CLC students gain practical skills and employers access talent to help grow the business.
Explore the accounting program
Izzy Reyes
Alum
"If I hadn't taken advantage of the Career & Job Placement Center resources, I don't think I would be where I am today. I wouldn't have found that internship. I wouldn't have gained that experience."
Izzy studied graphic design at CLC. She used Career & Job Placement Center (CJPC) services to chart a new career path.
Learn how CJPC helps you get a job
Kylie Kundert
Student
"I knew I would come out of it with the skills necessary to enter into the workforce."
Kylie is earning a degree in automation, robotics and mechatronics. After touring the lab at CLC, she knew advanced manufacturing was her future. And that she'd gain the skills here to succeed.
Learn about manufacturing careers
Natasha Phillips
Graduate
“Heating, ventilation and air conditioning is a trade skill that’s always going to be needed, so I can have a stable career.”
Natasha studied HVAC/R Engineering Technology at CLC. A workforce grant paid for her education so she can start a new career in a high-demand industry.
Explore ways to pay for college
Ian Velasquez
Graduate
“At CLC I learned all the skills I need to enter the welding and fabrication industry one step ahead of everyone else. The teachers were attentive and helpful throughout my time in the program.”
Ian earned a General Welding Certificate at CLC. A workforce grant paid for his education so he can start a career in a high-demand field.
Explore financial aid options
Joshua Cardin
Graduate
“While I was in the Coast Guard, I’d take a class here or there online with other colleges. None of them hold a candle to CLC. It’s unbelievable how far the college is looking forward. And how many opportunities are available for the people of Lake County.”
Joshua studied Fire Science Technology at CLC after serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. He now works as a firefighter and is studying Emergency Medical Technology to also become a paramedic.
Read Joshua's story