Danville, Illinois — Danville Area Community College (DACC) has received a significant grant of nearly $600,000 to develop a clean energy workforce. This funding will serve as the foundation for the Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program hub in the East Central Region of Illinois. The grant, totaling $592,984, is aimed at providing free training for individuals interested in high-demand careers in the clean energy sector.
The initiative is funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) through the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA). DACC will manage all aspects of the program, including outreach, recruitment, screening, training, and participant support. The goal is to create a skilled and diverse clean energy workforce that can meet the growing needs of the region.
Dr. Randy Fletcher, President of Danville Area Community College, emphasized the importance of this grant. “The Climate and Equitable Jobs Act reflects the future of both workforce development and economic growth,” he said. “This grant allows the College to remove financial barriers, invest in people, and prepare our community for good-paying, future-focused careers in clean energy.”
As part of the program, DACC plans to recruit 40 participants who will receive full coverage of tuition, fees, books, and other supplies. Additionally, students will receive a stipend during their enrollment to help reduce financial stress and allow them to focus on their studies.
The training begins with a bridge program that covers energy basics and essential employability skills. After completing the bridge program, participants can choose between two specialized pathways: solar and wind technology or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world exposure through job site visits, tours, and classroom visits from industry professionals.
Participants will be prepared to earn several industry-recognized certifications, including:
- OSHA 10
- First Aid/CPR
- Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) certification
- National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certification
- Building Science Principles certification
These credentials are designed to help graduates enter the workforce with confidence and credibility.
To support completion and job placement, DACC will provide barrier reduction services such as wrap-around services, student support, and transition assistance. Building strong relationships with regional employers is a core focus of the program to help participants move directly into employment.
Equity is also a central theme of the program. DACC will use inclusive outreach strategies and supportive instruction to empower participants to fully engage and grow professionally.
Progress and outcomes will be tracked through the CEJA Reporting System to ensure accountability and continued improvement. Participants will also have the opportunity to earn college credit while enrolled and will have full access to DACC student services, including tutoring, academic advising, and career services.
“The clean energy economy is growing quickly, and employers need trained workers now,” Fletcher said. “This program helps meet that need while creating new opportunities for people in our region.”
For more information about the program, visit dacc.edu.