ICAPS program changes lives
Since 1951, Elgin Community College has awarded 41,688 degrees and certificates; and we are not stopping there. According to Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce, 65 percent of all jobs in the economy will require postsecondary education and training beyond high school by 2020.
With six associate degree programs, and more than 140 career-oriented occupational degree and certificate programs, ECC is well on its way to meeting this demand. One of the programs you may not be familiar with is ECC's ICAPS program.
The Integrated Career and Academic Preparation System provides free supplemental academic support, career readiness activities and personalized advising to prepare students for the workforce. It includes welding; computer numerical control (CNC) operator; heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR); dental office aide, and four new areas currently in development.
These students are assigned to a group and attend all courses together, accompanied by a faculty member who provides additional support. All ICAPS programs are less than one year and lead to one or more credentials sought after by local employers.
"I am excited that this innovative program was nominated for a prestigious Bellwether award! It is a testament to the success and strategy behind what we do at ECC to help our students fulfill their educational journeys. And we have many success stories that we can share," said David Sam, Ph.D., J.D., LLM, president of Elgin Community College.
One in particular, involves ICAPS graduate Eric Cusick. He came to ECC looking for an opportunity to chart a new course for his life: ICAPS made the difference. He went on to earn two certificates in welding and ended up using those skills to obtain a job building cars for Chrysler.
In addition to providing pathways for students to continue their education at four-year universities, ECC also makes sure they are doing all they can to prepare students for employment.
ICAPS is one of many programs here at ECC with dedicated faculty and staff committed to changing lives. If you are looking for a new set of skills or to continue your education, call (847) 214-6944, ECC can help.
For more information about ICAPS, visit elgin.edu/ICAPS.