A dozen community members are ready to enter the green energy workforce after completing their training in one month. College of Lake County, in partnership with Lake County Workforce Development and The Community Works, proudly announces the graduation of the first cohort of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) Waukegan Hub Training Program. This achievement reflects Lake County’s commitment to building a local workforce that is prepared for success in clean energy and other high-demand industries, while also promoting a more equitable and sustainable future for the region.

Twelve participants completed a comprehensive, four-week CEJA Bridge Training Program where they learned foundational technical skills relevant to working in clean energy jobs, in addition to crucial soft skills like communication, problem-solving and teamwork.

“This program was a blessing for me,” said Richard Martinez-Messner, a graduate of the first cohort. “They’re providing me with OSHA 10 certification, CPR certification; we did a bunch of stuff on electrical. I believe with all these skills I’ll be able to have a very successful career.”

A celebratory graduation ceremony took place at the end of January at CLC’s Lakeshore Campus in Waukegan. Friends, family and community leaders honored the graduates’ accomplishments.

“I have never seen a program like this,” said Otis Boose, another graduate of the first cohort. “Not only do they have a wrap-around characteristic, but they also give you a stipend, they also give you the tools you need to be successful. They make sure that you are ready, equipped and able to move forward into the next phase.”

Graduates can now pursue advanced technical certifications at CLC in fields such as Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Electric Vehicle Automotive Technology. Several participants have already secured, or are interviewing for, positions at local companies seeking skilled workers. By aligning training with employer needs, the CEJA Waukegan Hub fosters direct pipelines to living-wage employment throughout the region.

“We are thrilled to recognize the hard work and dedication of our first graduating class,” said Richard Ammon, Executive Director of Workforce Initiatives at CLC. “Through the CEJA Waukegan Hub and Bridge Training Program, these graduates are prepared to flourish in rapidly growing clean energy fields while contributing to a more equitable, sustainable future for Lake County and for Illinois. We look forward to watching them thrive and inspire others to pursue these vital career pathways.”

Additional cohorts will be offered monthly throughout the year, creating a flexible, rolling admissions schedule that minimizes wait times for new applicants. Anyone interested in learning more about the program or applying for an upcoming cohort is encouraged to visit the official CEJA Waukegan Hub webpage.

By establishing the Waukegan Hub under the guidance of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, College of Lake County, Lake County Workforce Development and The Community Works strive to expand access to clean energy job opportunities for underserved communities. The program is one of 13 CEJA Workforce Hubs across Illinois, all of which focus on creating pathways to stable employment for local residents in emerging, high-growth clean energy-related industries.

The Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program (CEJA Workforce Hubs) is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) under CEJA. By bridging skill gaps, promoting sustainability and emphasizing inclusivity, the CEJA Waukegan Hub drives economic growth and helps build a stronger, more resilient workforce across Lake County.