KEY PIECES
OF A TRANSFORMATIVE YEAR
workNet DuPage Year in Review
(Program Year 2021)
Message from the Chair
It is my distinct pleasure to introduce the workNet DuPage Year in Review. The workforce development programs provided by DuPage County’s workNet Center enhance the quality of life for our residents while building a stronger regional economy. The review focuses on five key pieces to a successful year of service. From reimagined outreach and business service strategies to a redesigned office, this year proved to be a transformative one for workNet DuPage, with the greatest transformation belonging to job seekers. I encourage you to explore the report from start to finish and discover how workNet DuPage puts the pieces together for job seekers, businesses, and young adults in DuPage County.
Deborah A. Conroy, Chair
DuPage County Board
The missing piece for job seekers
From entry to executive levels, we helped job seekers put the pieces together to attain successful careers and a better quality of life.
The missing piece for job seekers
From entry to executive levels, we helped job seekers put the pieces together to attain successful careers and a better quality of life.
"I advanced into a more qualified candidate pool and secured a job with a 46% increase from my previous salary."
-Lanise, workNet DuPage client
"I advanced into a more qualified candidate pool and secured a job with a 46% increase from my previous salary."
-Lanise, workNet DuPage client
$1.9 m
AWARDED TO JOB SEEKERS FOR CAREER TRAINING PRIMARILY IN 4 KEY INDUSTRIES
%
Transportation & Logistics
%
Information Technology
%
Healthcare
%
Manufacturing & Skilled Trades
$70k
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY UPON WORKNET PROGRAM COMPLETION
(for comparison, the average salary in Illinois is $54,683)
30%
INCREASE IN EARNINGS ON AVERAGE
workNet DuPage awarded $1.9 million to job seekers for training to boost their earning potential and meet the needs of the local business community.
This year we helped:
- Employees who were laid off and had to search for a job for the first time in 10+ years
- People returning to the workforce after a long break
- Family members struggling to make ends meet
- Young adults launching careers
- People with disabilities
- Those looking for a second chance
- People unsure about their next step
- And many more of your friends, family, and neighbors throughout the County
Jashaun earned his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and secured a better paying job in no time. “My rebuilt resume also attracted tons of employers,” he says.
Jashaun earned his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and secured a better paying job in no time. “My rebuilt resume also attracted tons of employers,” he says.
An IT sales professional, workNet DuPage funded Daniel after a layoff to complete a Cyber Security Minor at Northeastern Illinois University to get an edge in the job market. Today he is thriving.
A layoff forced Daniel to relocate and rethink his next career move. An IT sales professional, workNet DuPage funded Daniel to complete a Cyber Security Minor at Northeastern Illinois University to get an edge in the job market. Today he is thriving.
Through workNet DuPage, Lanise earned a certification in Construction Management and improved her resume and interviewing skills. She landed a full-time job as a Construction Management Administrator and is earning more after her layoff.
Through workNet DuPage, Lanise earned a certification in Construction Management and improved her resume and interviewing skills. She landed a full-time job as a Construction Management Administrator and is earning more after her layoff.
During the pandemic, Sara was let go from a job in the restaurant industry. Through the Center's assistance, she gained experience as a Contact Tracer before landing a full-time job. "I had the pleasure of working with Katrina Savaglio and I simply cannot thank her enough," she says.
During the pandemic, Sara was let go from a job in the restaurant industry. A single parent, she reached out to workNet DuPage for help to get back on track. Through the Center's assistance, she gained experience as a Contact Tracer before landing a full-time job. "I had the pleasure of working with Katrina Savaglio and I simply cannot thank her enough," she says.
workNet DuPage’s funding support enabled Teresa to earn multiple certifications: Project Management Professional (PMP), Scrum Master, and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certified (LSSGB).
workNet DuPage’s funding support enabled Teresa to earn multiple certifications: Project Management Professional (PMP), Scrum Master, and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certified (LSSGB). She says the center's resume and interview workshops also helped her stay positive and land a role as a Senior Account Manager.
A workNet DuPage training grant enabled Jeff to earn an Internet Marketing Certificate after a layoff.
A workNet DuPage training grant enabled Jeff to earn an Internet Marketing Certificate after a layoff.
Not yet able to retire and tired of always having to search for the next job, Myles got certified in CISCO Academy to update his skills. That's when the pieces came together.
Not yet able to retire and tired of always having to search for the next job, Myles got certified in CISCO Academy to update his skills. That's when the pieces came together.
After she lost her job during the pandemic, it was difficult for Shaniqua to complete nursing school. With help from workNet DuPage, she could focus on her studies and graduate.
After she lost her job during the pandemic, it was difficult for Shaniqua to complete nursing school. With help from workNet DuPage, she could focus on her studies and graduate.
Through a new intensive workshop, Building Blocks for A Successful Job Search, residents updated their job search skills and gained confidence to (re)enter the workforce. Job seeker services included:
.
Through a new intensive workshop, Building Blocks for A Successful Job Search, residents updated their job search skills and gained confidence to (re)enter the workforce. Job seeker services included:
Grants up to $10,000 per person for career training in high-demand industries
Comprehensive career planning and job search assistance
includes resume reviews, practice interviews, and workshops
Access to technology, office equipment, and office space
Ongoing job search support
Connections to a wide range of community partners for supportive services
If you are unemployed, workNet DuPage is here for you. Learn more and complete our Get Started form here today!
If you are unemployed, workNet DuPage is here for you. Get the resources and help you need. Learn more and complete our "Get Started" form here!
Paid Internships for Young Adults
Paid Internships for Young Adults
“Internships are an amazing way to gain experience while learning how to elevate your skillset for the array of jobs awaiting."
-Leanalyn, workNet DuPage MY Way program participant
“Internships are an amazing way to gain experience while learning how to elevate your skillset for the array of jobs awaiting."
Leanalyn, workNet DuPage MY Way program participant
In September, we hosted a career conversation for young adults, ages 17-24, to talk about internships, professional connections, and money to pay for school. Young adults – who've recently been there, done that – did the talking. Watch it here.
On the heels of this successful event, workNet DuPage’s Make Your Way (MY Way) program rolled out new paid internships for eligible youth at DuPage County businesses and nonprofits.
On the heels of this successful event, workNet DuPage’s Make Your Way (MY Way) program rolled out new paid internships for eligible youth at DuPage County businesses and nonprofits.
Internship opportunities were available in marketing, nonprofit, and creative fields, as well as tech, manufacturing, and industrial sectors.
Young adults can develop in-demand career skills, acquire professional connections, and gain competitive paid work experience. Additionally, interns receive intensive support including:
- Ongoing career advisement & job readiness programming
- Active job search help with a job developer
- The choice to attend school or a job training program, up to $10,000, ending with a nationally recognized certification
- One year of follow up services
"I love my paid internship because I am being paid to learn and grow. Who wouldn't want that?!,” says Leanalyn. “I’m happy with the results of my experience, everything I’ve learned, and everyone I’ve met. I’m excited for the opportunities this experience will bring.
Through the MY Way program, Leanalyn secured a paid internship at Metropolitan Family Services, a major nonprofit in DuPage County.
Jacob pictured (right) with MSC's Customer Fulfillment Center Manager, Benjamin Garman.
workNet DuPage's internship program connects young adult job seekers in our community to career pathways in growing industries.
Jacob says, "I loved my paid internship because it gave me the confidence to proceed to the next chapter of my life while learning the skills and experiences to make me successful!"
Jacob interned as a Material Handler at the MSC Industrial Supply Co. Customer Fulfillment Center in Hanover Park. After the internship, he was hired as a permanent employee. HR Business Partner Rose Baltazar says, “workNet DuPage goes above and beyond to find a fit that works for both the individual and the employer. They provide interns with coaching, mentoring and additional training if needed. We are very happy with our new ‘permanent’ associate, Jacob.”
Jacob says, "I loved my paid internship because it gave me the confidence to proceed to the next chapter of my life while learning the skills and experiences to make me successful! My internship provided hands on experience. I learned the UPS World Ship Computer System and all the processes from start, receipt of a customer order, to finish, final packaging and delivery of orders received."
Jacob interned as a Material Handler at the MSC Industrial Supply Co. Customer Fulfillment Center in Hanover Park, the leading North American distributor of metalworking and maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) products and services. After the internship, he was hired as a permanent employee. HR Business Partner Rose Baltazar says, “workNet DuPage goes above and beyond to find a fit that works for both the individual and the employer. They provide interns with coaching, mentoring and additional training if needed. We are very happy with our new ‘permanent’ associate, Jacob. He began as an intern, and he has been a delight to have on our team.”
Jacob pictured (right) with MSC's Customer Fulfillment Center Manager, Benjamin Garman.
workNet DuPage's internship program connects young adult job seekers in our community to career pathways in growing industries.
Thank you to this year's intern site partners!
Aqueity
Americraft
Buck Services
BioScan Tek
Compudopt
CPT Network Solutions
Country Financial
Earth Friendly Products
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Farmers Insurance (Lisle)
Farmers Insurance (Wheaton)
HYDAC Technology Corporation
MSC Direct
Metropolitan Family Services
Midtronics
Morton Arboretum
NGK Spark Plugs
Nidec
Saint-Gobain Abrasives
Systematics
UMG/Del Medical
Zeus Battery Products
Window World of Western Chicago
Thank you to this year's intern site partners!
Aqueity
Americraft
Buck Services
BioScan Tek
Compudopt
CPT Network Solutions
Country Financial
Earth Friendly Products
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Farmers Insurance (Lisle)
Farmers Insurance (Wheaton)
HYDAC Technology Corporation
MSC Direct
Metropolitan Family Services
Midtronics
Morton Arboretum
NGK Spark Plugs
Nidec
Saint-Gobain Abrasives
Systematics
UMG/Del Medical
Zeus Battery Products
Window World of Western Chicago
Are you a business in DuPage? Join the MyWay Program and benefit with interns paid for entirely by DuPage County. Learn more here or call 630.955.2037.
Are you a young adult ages 17-24 in DuPage County? The MY Way Program is NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS! Make your way towards a rewarding career through paid internships and/or financial support to go to school to get a job with a future. Apply today. Text MYWAY to 630.857.0842 or visit here to learn more.
View the press release for the initiative here.
Are you a business in DuPage? Join the MyWay Program and benefit with interns paid for entirely by DuPage County, who is the employer of record. Learn more here or call 630.955.2037.
Helping Businesses Upskill
Worker training grants were a key piece to achieve business success in the face of staff shortages.
Helping Businesses Upskill
Worker training grants were a key piece to achieve business success in the face of staff shortages.
“The most impactful outcome was how our employees witnessed how we continue to invest in them."
Mark Levit, LDS Industries CEO
"The most impactful outcome was how our employees witnessed how we continue to invest in them."
Mark Levit, LDS Industries CEO
$313k
AWARDED TO LOCAL COMPANIES TO TRAIN EMPLOYEES
23
COMPANIES RECEIVED TRAINING GRANTS
130
WORKERS UPSKILLED
At the start of the year, we released our “Bounce Back Better in Business Guide.” From there it was full steam ahead assisting local employers with their workforce needs.
In a challenging year for recruiting, the key piece for businesses was boosting the skills of current employees. workNet DuPage awarded Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) grants to 23 companies who determined that, if they couldn’t find the skilled workers they needed outside their company, they would develop those skills within.
Companies identified training needs and selected the training providers; workNet DuPage reimbursed the cost up to $25,000 per company. The financial assistance kept employees from heading out the door. Adding IWT to their toolbox, companies fought off the Great Resignation and “quiet quitting.” workNet DuPage’s focus on grants that promote employee promotion and pay raises increased employee morale and retention.
At the start of the year, we released our “Bounce Back Better in Business Guide.” From there it was full steam ahead assisting local employers with their workforce needs.
In a challenging year for recruiting, the key piece for businesses was boosting the skills of current employees. workNet DuPage awarded Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) grants to 23 companies who determined that, if they couldn’t find the skilled workers they needed outside their company, they would develop those skills within.
Companies identified training needs and selected the training providers; workNet DuPage reimbursed the cost up to $25,000 per company. The financial assistance kept employees from heading out the door. Adding IWT to their toolbox, companies fought off the Great Resignation and “quiet quitting.” workNet DuPage’s focus on grants that promote employee promotion and pay raises increased employee morale and retention.
COMPANY TESTIMONIALS
Spotlight on manufacturing
Training benefits company culture at LDS Industries
The Addison-based manufacturing company utilized a worker training grant to train staff in electrical and production assembly skills such as wiring and milling.
"The impact of the grant program at LDS benefitted our company culture significantly as it helped reinforce one of our company core values: 'improve and innovate everyday," says CEO Mark Levit. "Not only did it help reimburse the costs associated with re-training our staff to avert layoffs, but the most impactful outcome was how our employees witnessed how we continue to invest in them."
Spotlight on IT
Training as the key retention piece for Aqueity
In the B2B professional services market, training is critical to meet client needs. It's also a key ingredient to hiring and retention success for companies like Aqueity, an IT services and consulting firm, in Lombard.
Cybersecurity and Cloud Services training - funded with a workNet DuPage Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) grant - increased employee technical skills.
We sat down with DuPage County Workforce Innovation Board Member and Aqueity’s Chief Operating Officer, Barry Saltzman, and Patti Romanowicz, Manager of Talent and Culture, to see how it’s been going. Hear what they have to say below.
Barry Saltzman, Aqueity’s Chief Operating Officer, says “we were constantly hearing employees talk about more training, so from an employee retention and development perspective the program is awesome.”
Aqueity Manager of Talent and Culture Patti Romanowicz says, “Its been huge and I firmly believe, and would say, without a doubt, that we have been able to retain most of our staff, if not all, due to the training that we’ve been able to provide."
130 employees in information technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and the nonprofit sector acquired new skills. Types of certifications funded last year included:
- Automotive & Diesel Tech
- Facilities Maintenance
- Electrical Assembly
- Supply Chain Management
- Healthcare
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Cybersecurity (CMMC)
- Network & Systems Admin
- Microsoft Azure
- CompTIA
- VMWare
- MCE Enterprise Administrator
- Desktop Advanced Support Technician
- Manufacturing
- CNC
- Die Maintenance
- MasterCam
- Additive Manufacturing
- Welding
- ACSYS Laser Systems
- Creo
- Okuma AOT
- Bystronic/Bysoft
- Blueprint Reading
- GD&T
- Fanuc
Be Awarded Up To $25,000 To Train Your Employees
Provide your staff with opportunities to grow and advance and strengthen your business in the process. If you're a business owner or HR professional in DuPage, contact us today. Get in touch and learn more here.
Be Awarded Up To $25,000 To Train Your Employees
Provide your staff with opportunities to grow and advance and strengthen your business in the process. If you're a business owner or HR professional in DuPage, contact us today. Get in touch and learn more here.
A new initiative to Skill Up DuPage
We were awarded a national grant and now we're reaching out to all corners of the County.
A new initiative to Skill Up DuPage
We were awarded a national grant and now we're reaching out to all corners of the County.
workNet DuPage was awarded a national grant to connect the long-term unemployed to the public workforce system.
During the program year, the center was awarded the Comprehensive and Accessible Reemployment through Equitable Employment Recovery (CAREER) DWG grant to provide solutions to dislocated workers, in particular those from historically marginalized communities and those who have been unemployed for an extended period. To meet the CAREER DWG grant goals, we initiated a “Skill Up DuPage” campaign, a two-pronged effort that blends outreach and technology.
To promote accessibility and equity of services, we worked with the County’s GIS staff to identify locations of greatest need based on unemployment rate, educational attainment, household internet access, diversity index, and other variables. With this knowledge in hand, we moved beyond the physical walls of our Lisle-based center and the internet limitations of Zoom.
workNet DuPage was awarded a national grant to connect the long-term unemployed to the public workforce system.
During the program year, the center was awarded the Comprehensive and Accessible Reemployment through Equitable Employment Recovery (CAREER) DWG grant to provide solutions to dislocated workers, in particular those from historically marginalized communities and those who have been unemployed for an extended period. To meet the CAREER DWG grant goals, we initiated a “Skill Up DuPage” campaign, a two-pronged effort that blends outreach and technology.
To promote accessibility and equity of services, we worked with the County’s GIS staff to identify locations of greatest need based on unemployment rate, educational attainment, household internet access, diversity index, and other variables. With this knowledge in hand, we moved beyond the physical walls of our Lisle-based center and the internet limitations of Zoom.
Partnering with libraries as well as townships and villages, we initiated a cross-county tour to “Skill Up DuPage” hosting information events in the community to connect residents with the tools they need to start or restart a great career. Events have already taken place in West Chicago, Addison, Downers Grove, Wheaton, Darien, Glendale Heights, and Carol Stream. Attendees included laid-off workers affected by recent IT and marketing layoffs, return-to-work parents, English Language Learners, older workers, young adults, and career changers.
336
SKILL UP DUPAGE ATTENDEES AND COUNTING
Skill Up DuPage, offered in English and Spanish, details how residents can:
• TEAM UP with a personal career coach
• LEVEL UP careers with FREE career planning
• STEP UP earning potential
• SKILL UP with career training up to $10,000 per eligible individual
Expanding accessibility and equity of services
KIOSKS INSTALLED
In tandem with the Skill Up DuPage information sessions, we began to install digital kiosks providing access to workNet DuPage services with the touch of a finger.
BREAKING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE
Areas with relatively low household internet access and high-pedestrian activity were chosen to maximize efforts to reduce the digital divide.
Educare in West Chicago and the West Suburban Community Pantry in Woodridge partnered with workNet DuPage as the first kiosk hosts. Kiosks are also currently located at the West Chicago Public Library and Addison public library with more on the way in 2023. Kiosk users can determine which services would be most useful for them, explore a variety of career paths, and get the process started immediately with near real-time contact from workNet staff.
Expanding accessibility and equity of services
KIOSKS INSTALLED
In tandem with the Skill Up DuPage information sessions, we began to install digital kiosks providing access to workNet DuPage services with the touch of a finger.
BREAKING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE
Areas with relatively low household internet access and high-pedestrian activity were chosen to maximize efforts to reduce the digital divide.
Educare in West Chicago and the West Suburban Community Pantry in Woodridge partnered with workNet DuPage as the first kiosk hosts. Kiosks are also currently located at the West Chicago Public Library and Addison public library with more on the way in 2023. Kiosk users can determine which services would be most useful for them, explore a variety of career paths, and get the process started immediately with near real-time contact from workNet staff.
A major renovation
We said hello to a fresh new look and welcoming atmosphere for job seekers.
A major renovation
We said hello to a fresh new look and welcoming atmosphere for job seekers.
We unveiled a revamped career center where employers and job seekers connect, residents from all walks of life and occupational backgrounds attend workshops, make connections to County programs, build skills, and so much more.
The Center provides everything job seekers need to land their next job:
• A community space featuring a new computer lab
• Private office spaces for residents to conduct virtual, phone, or in-person job interviews in a quiet, professional setting with reliable high-speed internet
• Workstations with easy access to resources such as resume templates, job boards, career exploration tools, and subscription-only research databases
• Assistive devices and technology for job seekers with disabilities
• Additional workshop rooms
• Updated conference settings
At the same time, we offered new and expanded programs
To create a one-stop destination for job seekers in DuPage, we teamed up with partner organizations to hold workshops:
• A Job Club led by the Career and Networking Center
• Financial fitness classes led by H.O.M.E. DuPage
• Digital literacy courses taught by People’s Resource Center
• Health Department information sessions
• Meet the Employer Recruitment meetings
• Skill Up DuPage orientations
• Building Blocks for a Successful Job Search
workNet DuPage was designated a NorthStar testing location. This means residents can now take online, self-guided, basic computer skill assessments to measure mastery of skills in 14 different areas, including Microsoft Word and Excel. Residents can also take free practice exams for credentials such as Project Management Professional, Commercial Driver's License, and Cisco Certified Network Associate.
We invite you to #ComeOnIn
Take a class. Update your digital skills. Make the center your temporary job search office. The public can #ComeOnIn and meet with recruiters, College of DuPage advisors, and a team of knowledgeable career development professionals. View the press release here and Come On In Guide from earlier this year here.
Job Seeker?
Business?
Federally funded, locally driven, workNet DuPage is DuPage County’s workforce development agency operating under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). For the job seekers and employers we serve each year, our no-cost services make all the difference.
GOVERNANCE
Deborah A. Conroy
Chair, DuPage County Board
Lisa Schvach
Executive Director
workNet DuPage
DuPage County Workforce Development Division
DuPage County Economic Development Committee
Amy Chavez, Chair
Ashely Selmon, Vice Chair
Grant Eckoff
Julie Renehan
Pete DiCianni
Sheila Rutledge
DuPage County Workforce Innovation Board
Kate Wollensak, Chair
Susan Ryan, Vice Chair
Ian Hardie, Secretary
Dr. Joseph Cassidy, Treasurer
Dan Allen
Kevin Bass
Greg Bedalov
Patrick Chandler
Jane Clark
Marianne Considine
Laura Crawford
Dan Deasy
Kim Dolder
Michelle Einfalt
Calvin Giles
Jeff Feucht
Erika Ford
Tamryn Hennessy
TJ Jarman
Mary Keating
Mike Kish
Marilyn Liwanag
Nisha Patel
Rosanne Potter
Tiffany Rotondo
Dr. Darlene Ruscitti
Susan Ryan
Barry Saltzman
Barbara Szczepaniak
Christine Torres
Tom Wendorf
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the
U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration.
