College of Lake County secures $3.5 million equity grant to create clean energy jobs

College of Lake County (CLC) received a $3.5 million grant as part of the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). This program supports initiatives to create a pipeline of qualified workers for jobs in the clean energy sector, such as EV automotive technology, heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), energy efficiency audits and building and home inspection. CLC estimates this grant funding can ensure that 200 individuals living in Lake County communities will participate in training programs, resulting in at least 100 individuals working to reach energy employment outcome goals.

Waukegan was identified as one of 13 CEJA Workforce Hubs in Illinois. An institution strongly committed to regional workforce development and environmental sustainability, CLC is uniquely well-positioned to implement this grant program. The College has a proven track record of offering high-quality education and training programs, coupled with a deep understanding of the local job market and the specific needs of the clean energy industry.

“CLC is thankful to have been selected to receive this grant and have the opportunity to align with strong partners on this important initiative,” said CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick. “The Waukegan workforce Hub will provide residents with opportunities to gain the skills and training needed to secure rewarding careers in the growing clean energy sector, while promoting environmental sustainability in our community.”

Partnering with the Lake County Workforce Development Board, the Lake County Job Center and other local community-based organizations, CLC will facilitate a variety of workforce training programs designed to prepare residents for in-demand clean energy jobs.

“CEJA is about the community coming together to serve the community,” said Executive Director of Lake County Workforce Development Jennifer Serino. “We're committed to ensuring our members have access to quality career pathways leading to good jobs in clean energy. Workforce Development and the Job Center of Lake County are ready to get started, working alongside our partners to help individuals transition into training and meaningful employment.”

The Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act is a $1 billion investment in clean energy jobs and economic development. This program is designed to help Illinois meet its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. The CEJA Workforce Hubs Program is one of several workforce programs established by the landmark CEJA legislation intended to move Illinois to a 100% carbon-free future. Under CEJA, DCEO will administer $180 million per year in workforce and community support programs designed to build Illinois' clean energy economy and prepare the state's workforce and communities for the jobs of the future.

“This initiative is more than a training program; it’s a catalyst for transforming our community’s economic landscape,” said Executive Director of Community and Workforce Partnerships Dr. Richard Ammon. “With this grant, we’re not only preparing individuals for high-demand jobs but also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future for Lake County,”

Interested residents can learn more about the programs by calling 847-377-3450 or emailing jobcenterOTM@lakecountyil.gov

About the College of Lake County

College of Lake County is a comprehensive community college committed to equitable high-quality education, cultural enrichment and partnerships to advance the diverse communities it serves in northeastern Illinois. Credit and non-credit classes offered at three campuses in Grayslake, Vernon Hills and Waukegan and the Advanced Technology Center in Gurnee or online, help students achieve academic, career and personal goals. The college opened the Prairie Restaurant at Brae Loch in 2023. The College of Lake County is a national leader in sustainability, student success and global education. Learn more at www.clcillinois.edu or call (847) 543-2000.

About the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois’ world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois’ reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business.