Shared resources to support community organizations and nonprofits that support the workforce sector and beyond. We have to come together to support the work of social good.

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."

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it is essential to not only honor the achievements of women in the workplace but also to recognize the challenges they continue to face. At Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), we partner with organizations that champion the rights of women in the workforce.

Workforce development isn’t just about jobs—it’s about creating pathways for individuals to achieve stability, dignity, and growth in a rapidly changing economy. It’s also a vital component of building a more equitable society by addressing systemic barriers that prevent many people from accessing meaningful employment.

The potential impacts we could see on the job market due to economic shifts underscores the importance of equipping job seekers with versatile, transferable skills that can weather economic shifts.

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.

At the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), we believe that every organization plays a role in creating an equitable workforce system. Our customized training solutions are designed to empower workforce professionals to better serve job seekers, equipping them with tools to address systemic barriers to employment.

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.