Kaskaskia College “Developing the Workforce” - inspire community magazine
Kaskaskia College offers a wide range of resources and services designed to support the growth and development of local businesses and industries. From educational programs to no-cost and customized training, the college is a valuable partner for organizations seeking to enhance operational efficiency and workforce capabilities.
First, Kaskaskia College provides a variety of degree programs and certificates tailored to business needs. Programs such as Business Management and Accounting equip individuals with essential skills for managing and operating within a business context. This educational support underscores the college’s commitment to developing a knowledgeable workforce capable of meeting modern challenges.
Additionally, Kaskaskia College has over 200+ articulation agreements with colleges and universities, facilitating seamless transfer opportunities for students completing their degrees. These pathways ensure that high-achieving students can continue their education uninterrupted, contributing to a skilled and educated workforce that benefits local businesses.
As a U.S. Department of Labor-recognized sponsor of Registered Apprenticeship Programs, Kaskaskia College partners with several industries to develop and maintain apprenticeship programs. Currently, the college has agreements with over nine companies, and this number continues to grow each year.
Apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with paid, on-the-job training, providing students with real-world experience while working toward a degree or certificate. Upon completing the program, students transition smoothly into full-time employment. These partnerships highlight the college’s proactive approach to aligning educational offerings with industry needs, ensuring businesses receive relevant, practical training solutions.
Kaskaskia College’s Workforce Development and Community Education Department collaborates with businesses to create programs and courses to help organizations and employers boost operational efficiency, enhance employee morale, and strengthen the organizational bottom line. KC works closely with employers to assess training needs and create customized solutions that build and maintain a highly skilled workforce.
Additionally, KC offers the Essential Workplace Skills training series facilitated by experienced trainers. Other training topics include but are not limited to, OSHA safety training, forklift certification, industrial skills development, and leadership/supervision training. With the introduction of the Mobile Manufacturing Lab, training can now be brought directly to the business, making it even more convenient for organizations to access essential education. We also offer online and open-enrollment training options across various topics.
KC also hosts several advisory board meetings with programs throughout the year, welcoming industry professionals to advise, assist, and support college personnel in improving several educational programs: planning, operation, and evaluation. The college continuously seeks feedback from business leaders on timely information related to workforce and job development demands and job market trends to help improve the quality of college programs.
In summary, Kaskaskia College is a vital resource for businesses across Illinois, providing essential training, educational programs, and support services that drive growth and innovation in the local economy.
