Discover how Opportunity@Work's insights on STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes) could reshape hiring practices in Chicago. Learn about the economic impact of degree requirements, initiatives to build a skills-based workforce, and next steps for fostering inclusivity and growth. Join the movement to 'Tear the Paper Ceiling' and unlock talent across industries."

Pay transparency is a critical step toward creating equitable workplaces where fairness and opportunity thrive. With the recent amendment to the Illinois Equal Pay Act now in effect, Illinois employers with 15 or more employees must include pay scales and benefits in job postings, ensuring job seekers have access to essential information. This policy, championed by Chicago Jobs Council and our Skills Agenda Table partners, helps remove employment barriers and fosters accountability in hiring practices.

 At Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), our recent Workforce Convo highlighted key strategies for navigating this changed political landscape. While methods may evolve, our core values of equity, opportunity, and systemic change remain constant. Here are ten actionable takeaways from our conversation to help you stay mission-driven and impactful in the year ahead.

On October 9, 2024, the Chicago Jobs Council hosted a CJC Workforce Convo focused on Bridging Expectations: Enhancing Job Satisfaction and Retention for Young Workers. The event featured insights from workforce leaders, career coaches, and—most importantly—young adults themselves. The conversation centered on how we can better understand, support, and retain Gen Z workers, who bring a unique perspective and set of challenges to the workforce.

Our Skills Agenda meetings have begun earnestly as we look forward to rounding out the year and the new legislative year’s priorities. We are engaging in conversations focused on broader workforce development priorities for the table.

The Transit Table is evolving into a broader Fines & Fees Table in an exciting transition. Building on the success of ending driver’s license suspensions for minor traffic offenses, which disproportionately impacted people's ability to work, this new focus will expand efforts to address the broader issue of fines and fees.

In a recent Senate hearing, Dr. Lisa Bly-Jones, CEO of the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), provided insightful testimony on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and its critical role in addressing the needs of the modern workforce. Since the hearing, she was asked to submit a response to a few questions the Senators had.