In Q4, the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC)-led CEJA Table took significant steps toward advancing clean energy workforce development across Illinois. As the table’s convener, CJC guided the transition into geographically focused working groups–Chicago South and Chicago West/Southwest. These groups collaborated to streamline the CEJA program workflow, from navigators’ intake to hubs’ bridge programming, clean energy training, and ultimately, employment opportunities.

The recent Executive Order, Preparing Americans for High-Paying Skilled Trade Jobs of the Future, aims to expand opportunities in skilled trades and streamline federal workforce programs. But will these efforts lead to equitable access for all? Explore CJC’s analysis of key areas to watch, including diverse pipelines, program consolidation, and strategic advocacy to ensure no one is left behind in the evolving workforce landscape.

Federal actions are jeopardizing the foundation of our workforce development ecosystem, putting both job seekers and service providers at risk. That’s why the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC) has quickly drafted a letter to the Governor’s office. We are advocating for immediate measures to ensure workforce equity and protect opportunities for all Illinois residents.

With the start of the Illinois Spring Legislative Session and important state and federal budget decisions approaching, the future of workforce funding remains unclear. In the coming months, workforce development program funding will encounter new challenges and opportunities, particularly as federal lawmakers discuss reconciliation and appropriations bills.

Recent executive actions threaten workforce equity by dismantling programs that support job seekers, employment specialists, and inclusive hiring practices. These changes put essential workforce development initiatives and opportunities for marginalized communities at risk. Learn how Chicago Jobs Council is advocating for equity and fighting to protect access to meaningful employment for all.

As we observe Poverty in America Awareness Month, it's crucial to recognize the profound impact of poverty in our communities. Nationally, 11.5% of the population—approximately 37.9 million people—live in poverty, facing significant barriers to securing family-supporting jobs and a hopeful future.

The situation mirrors the national landscape in Illinois, with 12.1% of residents living below the federal poverty line. In Chicago, the poverty rate is notably higher at 16.8%, affecting more than 450,000 individuals.

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.

Chicago’s guaranteed income program has been cut from the city budget, a decision that impacts thousands of low-income households and derails opportunities to measure its long-term benefits. At the Chicago Jobs Council, we believe guaranteed income is a vital step toward creating economic equity and strengthening communities. It’s time for Chicago to prioritize sustainable funding for programs like these to ensure every resident has the support they need to thrive.

Discover how the Chicago Jobs Council serves as an essential intermediary in workforce development, driving equitable change through advocacy, training, and partnerships. Learn how we connect job seekers, training providers, employers, and policymakers to create lasting opportunities and systemic solutions.

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.