Workforce office: apprenticeship incentives up to $4,000; FY'25 metrics mixed

Adam, representing the Office of Workforce Development, briefed the Jobs Committee on a package of workforce actions approved by the workforce development board. He said the board finalized a local policy tied to an apprenticeship expansion grant and "We're able to provide, up to $4,000 incentives for companies and providers that are developing new apprenticeships in the 3 county area." The incentives are intended to support new apprenticeship development in partnership with Elgin, Waubonsee and Kishwaukee community colleges.

Adam reviewed FY'25 program performance: the office met or exceeded most state performance metrics for individuals served, employment and median incomes after engagement, and youth programming exceeded targets by 23%. He said one metric fell short: direct training expenditures were about 43.5% of spending versus a 50% target. Adam attributed that shortfall to a $22,000,000 increase in total funding during the period and staff turnover, and said staffing offers are being made to return the fiscal team to full strength.

Adam also described service‑delivery improvements: a ribbon cutting for a new DeKalb office at 2179 Sycamore Road with bus access, and plans to explore a southern‑county office along the 34 Corridor to better serve southern Kane and neighboring areas. He told the committee the full board approved two RFPs to expand adult and dislocated worker services with Kishwaukee College and to partner with Western Bridges on programs for neurodivergent individuals and people with intellectual disabilities.

The committee asked follow‑up questions about training pipelines and local employer engagement; Adam said staff will provide data reports to board members and continue outreach to workforce partners.