Back to School,
Back to Work
September 2024 Workshops
With the kids returning to school,
is it your time to re-enter the workforce?
Are you contemplating a return to your career after taking time off to care for children? You're not alone! Join us this fall for our award-winning "Back to School, Back to Work" workshop series, designed specifically for parents like you. Whether you've been out of the job market for a few years or a few decades, these workshops will help you feel empowered and confident through this transitional time.
Each session in this series will teach you the tools and knowledge needed to successfully navigate today’s job search landscape. From the high-tech online application process to the classic interview questions, we’ve got you covered! Plus, you’ll connect with a supportive network of fellow parents on the same journey. Learn more below and register today. We can't wait to see where your next career phase will take you!
Details:
Location:
workNet DuPage Career Center. 2525 Cabot Drive, Lisle.
Dates:
Session 1: Thursday, September 12 9:30am-11am
Session 2: Thursday, September 19 9:30am-11am
Session 3: Thursday, September 26 9:30am-11am
Format:
Sessions 1 & 2 will feature a presentation on that day's topic, followed by a
panel discussion of participating employers who will share their insights and tips.
Session 3 will feature a keynote speaker along with interactive exercises and Q&A.
Registration:
Please register for each session you plan to attend.
Residency:
DuPage County residents only
Sessions:
Session 1: Thursday 9/12, 9:30am-11am
Identifying Your Skills and Exploring Careers
Thinking about what you have to offer to potential employers is an important first step of your job search. But knowing where to start and what type of jobs to look into can be confusing! Join us to hear about:
- Assessing Your Strengths, Skills, and Talents
- How to explore Growing Industries and In-Demand Careers
- Identifying Skill Gaps & Ways to Develop your Skill Set
Presentation by:
Rebecca Harrington, Career Services Specialist at College of DuPage
Employer panelists:
Lisa Giese, Attorney at McSwain Nagle Giese & Rapp
Megan Taylor, Project Manager at KEES/Alford Executive Search
Meredith Haugens, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at Naperville School District 203
Sydney Hart, Sr. Human Resources Consultant at Advocate Aurora Health
Session 2: Thursday 9/19, 9:30am-11am
Job Search Strategies
The job search has changed significantly over the years. Knowing the latest trends for resumes, interviewing, and applying for jobs is essential for success in today’s job market. Join us to hear about:
- Crafting a Winning Resume
- Effective Job Searching
- Mastering the Application Process
- Interview Preparation
Presentation by:
Susi Pihera, Senior Program Specialist at workNet DuPage
Employer panelists:
Mike Nolan, Director of HR at Advocate Aurora Health
Anne Klos, Sr. Manager of People and Culture at The Morton Arboretum
Molly McNicholas, Legal Assistant at Broida and Nichele, Ltd.
Session 3: Thursday 9/26, 9:30am-11am
It’s My Time: Returning to Work or School Following an Extended Period of Time Away
with Nancy Sayer of Benedictine University (Read Nancy's bio here.)
This session will cover:
- Overcoming Doubts: Address common fears like "Am I too old?" or "Can I keep up?" with practical advice and encouragement.
- Balancing Responsibilities: Strategies for managing work, school, and family life without feeling overwhelmed.
- Clarifying Your Path: Tools and techniques for defining what you want from your career or education moving forward.
- Building Confidence: Learn methods to boost your confidence as you step back into the workforce or educational setting.
- Practical Next Steps: Identify strategies to outline your goals and map your path forward.
Register today, these sessions will fill to capacity!
Want to learn more about this program?
Visit this resource page, from our 2023 workshops.
This program is proudly presented by DuPage County community partners:
