John Wood Community College celebrates Career and Technical Education Month in February

QUINCY — As Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month unfolds throughout February, John Wood Community College joins the nationwide celebration.

The City of Quincy has officially declared February as CTE Month, acknowledging the role CTE plays in preparing students for careers and addressing the skilled workforce needs of the community. During the last academic year, JWCC produced 175 graduates who earned certificates in a CTE-related field and 113 graduates who completed associate in applied science degrees.

JWCC will host a variety of events throughout the month of February to share the many opportunities in career and technical programs that lead to family sustaining careers with multiple employers in the region.

City of Quincy Proclaims CTE Month:

In recognition of the significance of CTE, the City of Quincy has issued an official proclamation declaring February as CTE Month. This proclamation emphasizes the critical role CTE plays in fostering the development of a skilled workforce and supporting economic growth in the region.

Launch of the Great River Chapter of FAME:

In a groundbreaking initiative, JWCC, in collaboration with the Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF), DOT Foods, Gardner Denver (Ingersoll Rand), General Mills, The Knapheide Manufacturing Company, and Titan Wheel, recently launched Illinois’ first Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) chapter. This chapter signals the region’s top manufacturers investing in premier workforce training to build highly skilled, globally competitive, and sought-after talent.

Students are encouraged to apply for this paid work-study program in advanced manufacturing. Students will attend JWCC two days a week and work three days a week for one of the sponsoring employers. The first cohort is set to begin in Fall 2024, with details and application materials available at www.greatriverFAME.org or by contacting Kayla Wentz at kwentz@jwcc.edu or 217-641-4957.

JWCC Workforce Development Center Expansion:

Amidst the celebration of CTE Month, JWCC is actively expanding its Workforce Development Center to better serve the needs of business and industry in the region. The enhanced facilities will provide state-of-the-art resources for customized training programs tailored to meet the evolving demands of the workforce.

History of Industry Support

With a rich history of serving the needs of business and industry, JWCC has been a cornerstone in advancing the manufacturing, transportation, logistics, healthcare and agriculture sectors in the tri-state area. The institution has consistently adapted and expanded its offerings to provide relevant and innovative CTE programs based on advice from multiple industry advisory councils.

Diverse CTE Programs:

JWCC currently offers 16 CTE programs, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in various industries. These programs encompass a range of fields, including manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, emergency services, agriculture and more. The emphasis on practical, hands-on training ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.

Open House for CTE Programs and FAME Information Feb. 7

As part of the CTE Month celebrations, JWCC invites the community to an open house on Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 4 p.m. at the Workforce Development Center, 2710 N. 42nd. This event is an opportunity for anyone interested in CTE programs or learning more about the new FAME chapter. Attendees will have the chance to explore the facilities, meet faculty and discover the diverse opportunities within the world of Career and Technical Education.

Truck Driver Training Program Open House Feb. 5

The Truck Driver Training Program will host an open house at at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5, at the Workforce Development Center. During this open house, representatives will share how the program has revised its training in response to federal regulations regarding obtaining a CDL. Admission requirements, funding options, night class options and career opportunities in the trucking industry will be discussed.

Attendees will also learn about a 16-credit hour, financial-aid-eligible, logistics/truck driver training certificate. The open house is free and open to the public. For information, contact the Truck Driver Training program, 217-641-4971, or visit www.jwcc.edu/truck.

Ag Visit Day Feb. 19

John Wood Community College invites prospective students and families to Ag Visit Day from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Monday, Feb. 19, at the JWCC Ag Sciences Complex in Baylis. This event offers a firsthand look at the new Ag Sciences Complex and academic programs, internships and scholarships offered through JWCC and the University of Illinois.

For more information about JWCC career and technical programs, visit www.jwcc.edu/careertech or contact Wentz at kwentz@jwcc.edu or 217-641-4957.