Illinois ranked number one for workforce development

CHICAGO (WICS) — Illinois has been named the number one leader for workforce development in the Midwest region for 2022, up from number two in 2021.

The ranking highlights Illinois’ commitment to providing innovative workforce programs, career training, and employment services that create resources for job seekers and ensure businesses continue to thrive.

“When we invest in workforce development, we create opportunities for every Illinoisan and establish a more economically prosperous future for our state,” said Governor Pritzker. “Through my administration’s historic investments in education, infrastructure, and business development, we’re creating thousands of good-paying jobs and a skilled workforce that’s ready for those jobs. We’re keeping our state's best assets — our people — at the forefront of economic progress."

The ranking, announced by Site Selection magazine, recognizes “states that performed well in a set of measures that gauge workforce-related aspects of states’ overall employment climate.”

Illinois’ workforce development is rooted in equity, innovation, and growth for the future.

The state fosters apprenticeship programs at every level and has over 432 Registered Apprenticeship programs.

Illinois’ youth apprenticeship programs provide a foundation for students aged 16-24 in high school and postsecondary education to choose between multiple pathways in high school, leading to college, full-time employment, or a combination of both.