CEJA Workforce Training Programs

The following CEJA workforce training programs are described below:

• Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program
• Climate Works Pre-apprenticeship Program
• Energy Transition Navigator Program
• Returning Resident Clean Jobs Program
• Solar Training Pipeline Program
• Multi-cultural Jobs Program
• Craft Apprenticeship Program

For a status of these programs, please visit the CEJA Program Updates and Status page (hyperlink).

For documents, reports and webinars pertaining to the CEJA workforce programs, please visit the CEJA Reports and Information page (hyperlink). 

Through the Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program (“CEJA Workforce Hubs”), thirteen Workforce Hubs across Illinois will offer training, certification preparation, and skill development for entry-level jobs in clean energy-related industries such as solar, wind, energy efficiency and EV maintenance. The hubs will utilize the clean jobs curriculum framework, which was developed through a broad stakeholder process. The CEJA Workforce Hubs will also offer wrap around services and support in order to help participants overcome barriers to successful completion.

The Workforce Hubs will be geographically distributed across Illinois, serving people who reside in or near the following 13 hub areas: Chicago (South Side), Chicago (Southwest & West Sides), Waukegan, Rockford, Aurora, Joliet, Peoria, Champaign, Danville, Decatur, Carbondale, East St. Louis, and Alton. Workforce Hubs will offer training and services in or near these hub service areas.

Subject to appropriation, $22.9 million per year will be allocated for the program, with an additional $15 million per year for distribution of Energy Transition Barrier Reduction Program services and funds. 

The Climate Works Pre-apprenticeship Program will provide training to prepare people to succeed in apprenticeship programs in construction and building trades that are expected to see clean energy job growth. The goal is to create a qualified, diverse pipeline of clean energy workers. Each program will offer training, credentials, support with enrollment in apprenticeship programs after completion, barrier reduction services and more.

As outlined in statute, the pre-apprenticeship program will consist of three regional centers serving the Chicago metropolitan area, Northern /Central Illinois, and Southern Illinois.

Subject to appropriation, $10 million per year will be allocated for the program, with an additional $6 million per year for distribution of Energy Transition Barrier Reduction Program services and funds.

The Energy Transition Navigators Program will provide outreach, education, and recruitment to eligible individuals to participate in CEJA workforce programs, and work with local job markets and workforce organizations to help place trainees in careers.  The Energy Transition Navigator Program will prioritize outreach and recruitment for the Climate Works Pre-apprenticeship Program and the Clean Jobs Workforce Network Hubs. They will provide support and career guidance for participants enrolling in these two workforce programs.

The Workforce Hubs will be geographically distributed across Illinois, serving people who reside in or near the following 13 hub areas: Chicago (South Side), Chicago (Southwest & West Sides), Waukegan, Rockford, Aurora, Joliet, Peoria, Champaign, Danville, Decatur, Carbondale, East St. Louis, and Alton. Workforce Hubs will offer training and services in or near these hub service areas.

$6 million per year is allocated for this program, subject to appropriation.

The Returning Resident Clean Jobs Training will provide training within Illinois Department of Corrections (DOC) correctional facilities to prepare people in the custody for entry-level clean energy jobs. Participants will receive essential employability skills training as part of vocational or occupational training. The training will lead to certifications or credentials that prepare candidates for employment. The Returning Resident Program will use a standard Clean Jobs Curriculum. $6 million in funding will be allocated to this program, subject to appropriation. 

This program establishes a “pipeline,” or “pool of trained installers,” for projects authorized under the Illinois Solar for All Program and the revised Renewable Portfolio Standards. Among its unique features, this program includes funding for programs that provide training to individuals who are or were foster care alumni or returning citizens transitioning into the workforce.  $3 million in funding is allocated to this program, subject to appropriation. This program was established under the Future Energy Jobs Act.

The Multi-cultural Jobs Program provides $4 million to fund multi-cultural jobs programs which are related to solar installation or similar sectors. The programming is run by diversity-focused community organizations that have a record of successfully delivering job training. This program was established under the Future Energy Jobs Act.

The Craft Apprenticeship Program provides $3 million in funding for accredited or recognized apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeship programs are offered for particular crafts, trades, or skills in the electric industry.  This program was established under the Future Energy Jobs Act.