E50: Clean Jobs Initiative: Building Illinois' Green Energy Workforce
Release Date: 01/17/2025
E58: Dreams Take Flight: How United Airlines Invests in Its Next Generation of Talent
Will Works Podcast
In this episode, you’ll hear how apprenticeships are transforming lives and careers across Illinois—with a spotlight on how United Airlines is using hands-on learning and mentorship to build the next generation of talent. You’ll meet a former apprentice who immigrated from Ukraine and, through the i.c.stars program, gained the skills, confidence, and opportunity to become a platform engineering associate at United Airlines. Her story reveals how apprenticeships can change the trajectory of a career and a life—bridging education and opportunity while helping businesses grow their own...
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E57: Building a Workforce for Everyone: Preparing Workers for a Changing Economy
Will Works Podcast
In this episode we are joined by Julio Rodriguez to explore how his personal journey—from first-generation roots and early challenges to becoming a leader in Illinois workforce development—drives his commitment to opportunity and public service. Julio shares how the power of work and mentorship carried him forward, and dives into how the state’s workforce ecosystem is evolving—through bridge programs for ESL learners, to the integration of adult education with career pathways. Julio also digs into major workforce trends like AI’s impact, clean-energy job growth, and the rising role...
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E56: Opening Doors for Young Talent: How Genesis Works Creates Career Pathways
Will Works Podcast
Jermaine Donaldson, Director of Business Development for Genesys Works, joins the podcast to discuss how the organization equips high school students from underserved communities with job training, professional skills, and paid internships. He shares how Genesys Works bridges the gap between talent and opportunity, helping young people launch meaningful careers and achieve long-term economic independence.
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E55: Building a Stronger Workforce: Lessons from Kraig Kistinger at National Tube Supply
Will Works Podcast
In this episode we sit down with Kraig Kistinger, Director of Human Resources at National Tube Supply Co., to explore what it takes to build and sustain a thriving workforce in today’s competitive market. Kraig shares how National Tube Supply invests in people through robust training, innovative tools like VR, and a culture that values authenticity and growth. We discuss practical strategies for recruiting and retaining talent, the power of community partnerships, and Kraig’s “three Bs of success” that guide both new hires and seasoned professionals. Whether you’re an employer, job...
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E54: From the Classroom to the Job Site: Preparing the Next Generation of Tradespeople
Will Works Podcast
In this episode of the Will Works podcast, you'll hear about how the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program is preparing individuals for careers in the construction trades through hands-on training, evening classes, and industry-recognized certifications. Discover how the program helps participants build foundational skills, gain confidence, and connect with union apprenticeship opportunities—all at no cost. With multiple locations and strong support services, including financial assistance and follow-up job placement, this episode explores how pre-apprenticeships are opening doors to...
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E53: Earning While Learning: Why Apprenticeships Matter More Than Ever
Will Works Podcast
Tune in as we explore the growing role of apprenticeships in today’s workforce with Dain Meza-Gotto, Director of Workforce Development at Joliet Junior College. You’ll hear how JJC is using apprenticeships to connect students and career changers with in-demand jobs in fields like early childhood education, clean energy, and manufacturing. Dain shares insights on the benefits apprenticeships offer to both employers and participants, from industry-recognized credentials to hands-on mentorship and wage progression. Whether you're an employer looking to build your talent pipeline or a student...
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E52: P2P 2025: Inside Will County's Interactive Career Exposition
Will Works Podcast
In this episode, host Patrick Hall speaks with Will County Workforce Services staff including John Hall (Business Services and Special Projects Supervisor), Andrew Pajak (Career Planner), Michelle Stiff (Director), and Pam Rodriguez (Special Projects Manager) about Pathways to Professions (P2P), an innovative career exposition now in its third year. Taking place on March 11, 2025, at the Romeoville Athletic and Event Center, P2P connects high school students with local employers through interactive, hands-on activities that showcase diverse career pathways. The event will feature over 119...
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E51: From JJC to CEO: Lutece Beavers' Journey in Marketing and Media
Will Works Podcast
Tune in for a conversation with Lutece Beavers, a Joliet native and successful graduate of JJC's Connect Your Future program. Lutece shares her journey from exploring diverse career interests to completing her business and marketing degree at Governor's State University in 2023. Now an associate publisher with Best Version Media, she discusses launching "Neighbors of Joliet" magazine, which helps local businesses enhance their community presence through print and digital marketing. The conversation covers her experiences balancing education, work, and a modeling career, while highlighting how...
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E50: Clean Jobs Initiative: Building Illinois' Green Energy Workforce
Will Works Podcast
In this episode of the Will Works podcast, host speaks with Lauren Kmetz-Weisman, JJC manager of the Clean Jobs Initiative (CEJA). Lauren shares information about the state-funded program, which aims to develop Illinois' clean energy workforce through training and job placement. The discussion covers CEJA's focus on residential energy audits and electric vehicle technology, the program structure, eligibility requirements, student stipends, and support services. Lauren explains that participants can complete an 8-week bridge program followed by job-specific training, with opportunities for...
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E49: Making Digital Marketing Accessible: AI & Social Media Tools for Small Business
Will Works Podcast
In this episode we sit down with Dan Peterson, founder of FlipSwitch Social Media. With a background in business ownership and sales, Dan shares insights on AI, digital marketing, and social media strategy. The conversation covers AI tools like ChatGPT, social media algorithms, and content creation that "stops the scroll." Dan discusses how FlipSwitch Social Media helps businesses maintain a digital presence through services and coaching. The episode ends with advice for business owners on preparing for an AI-driven future.
info_outlineIn this episode of the Will Works podcast, host speaks with Lauren Kmetz-Weisman, JJC manager of the Clean Jobs Initiative (CEJA). Lauren shares information about the state-funded program, which aims to develop Illinois' clean energy workforce through training and job placement. The discussion covers CEJA's focus on residential energy audits and electric vehicle technology, the program structure, eligibility requirements, student stipends, and support services. Lauren explains that participants can complete an 8-week bridge program followed by job-specific training, with opportunities for internships and pre-apprenticeships. The conversation includes details about CEJA's target to serve 160 students per year, with emphasis on residents from R3 areas and environmental justice communities.