Despite a prolonged global pandemic, workNet DuPage, the County’s workforce center-–funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-–provided exceptional services and value to DuPage County residents, as detailed in its first fully digital Year in Review: A Recovery for All.
The “Recovery for All” theme of the annual report highlights how workNet designed its programs around the local, specific needs of the individuals and companies it serves. Thanks to the agility of its team and skillful usage of federal WIOA-funds, residents from entry to executive levels-–including laid-off and furloughed workers, young adults, older residents, the homeless, those exiting the criminal justice system, new Americans, and individuals with disabilities-–all had positive employment outcomes.
“I am delighted to introduce the workNet DuPage Year in Review in a digital format for the first time,” said DuPage County Board Chairman Dan Cronin. “As we adapt to new ways of staying connected with County residents, there is perhaps no better way to share the significant accomplishments of our WIOA-funded projects. The report is packed with inspiring client success video testimonials. Each story is unique, but one thing unites them all: they found opportunity at workNet DuPage.”
Client video testimonials illustrate the stories behind the numbers and provide a snapshot of the individuals and businesses who benefited from intensive job search support, training, or funding assistance. Their compelling stories showcase the myriad ways workNet DuPage changes lives and contributes to the success of the local economy.
The organization successfully improved conditions for 944 job seekers. Thousands more residents benefited from workNet DuPage virtual job search workshops and seminars. WorkNet DuPage clients didn’t just return to work: they increased their earnings, on average, by 11%. Upon completion, the average annual salary of program participants was $71,000.
The Lisle-based center helped businesses strengthen their workforce with training grants and recruitment assistance. WorkNet also boosted the skills and efficiency of existing employees, granting $140,000 to provide training and career advancement skills to 96 DuPage County employees.
Year-round, the center carried on with its primary mission: catalyze career pathways in the County’s fastest-growing industries. WorkNet DuPage awarded more than $2.2 million dollars in job training scholarships to boost the skills of residents mostly advancing careers in four key sectors: 40% of clients pursued training and employment in Information Technology, followed by 19% in Transportation/Distribution/Logistics, 13% in Healthcare, and 12% in Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades.
The Year in Review can be viewed here.