Oakton College’s Workforce Empowerment Initiative receives nearly $1M grant to expand high-impact training programs

Oakton College in Des Plaines has received a $941,241 Illinois Workforce Empowerment Initiative grant to expand career training programs that advance economic mobility for students in high-demand fields.

The initiative equips people with the skills needed to secure jobs paying at least 30% above the living wage, strengthening communities and meeting regional workforce needs, according to a news release.

Formerly known as the Workforce Equity Initiative, Oakton’s Workforce Empowerment Initiative is entering its third year with an enhanced commitment to equity. The initiative now places a sharper focus on empowerment, emphasizing action, outcomes and sustained opportunities that equip students with the tools they need to thrive, the release said.

The new grant will allow Oakton to provide tuition-free training in the following programs in 2025-26: commercial driver’s license; emergency medical technician; basic nursing assistant training; pharmacy technician; computer numerical control operator; medical assistant; and forklift operator, a new program.

So far, 311 students have been served through WEI. Graduates have a combined earning power of $6.3 million.

“The Workforce Empowerment Initiative reflects our commitment to building pathways that lead to action, economic mobility and lasting opportunity for our students,” said Jesse Ivory, assistant vice president of Workforce Innovation and College Partnerships. “Oakton College remains committed to training the next generation of skilled workers prepared to meet regional economic needs while reaffirming its commitment to building just and thriving communities.”

Over the past three years, Oakton has partnered with more than 100 local employers.

Graduates of Oakton’s WEI programs earn $26.47 an hour on average, with some making up to $50 an hour. More than 70% of program graduates secure employment, highlighting its effectiveness.

Programs like CDL training can be completed in as little as four weeks, helping students quickly enter high-demand fields. Recruitment intentionally focuses on underserved communities in Evanston, Skokie, Niles and Des Plaines.

WEI funding removes critical barriers to student success by providing support for transportation, educational supplies, stipends and wraparound services. So far, the college has distributed more than $500,000 to students.

To learn more about WEI programs and how to enroll, visit https://www.oakton.edu/paying-for-college/wei-grant.php.