A new effort is being launched to spotlight career opportunities in Vermilion County. Vermilion County Workforce Education (VCWE) is a cooperative venture involving Vermilion Advantage, Danville Area Community College, and VVEDS (the Vermilion Vocational Education Delivery System).
The groups involved in the new effort note that despite the opportunities available across Vermilion County – especially in manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries – many students and parents are unaware of what is possible locally. From dual credit programs, college express, paid training to real job support, there are tangible pathways available but often overlooked. The campaign seeks to change that.
“Workforce development starts with awareness,” said Jodie Ingram in a news release. She is the Workforce Education Director at Vermilion Advantage. “Our students are smart, capable, and full of potential. But potential needs a path,” added Ingram. “When we show them what’s possible and walk beside them through the next step, we’re not just preparing them for jobs – we’re empowering them to build meaningful, successful lives right here in our community.”
Starting July 28th and running through August 15th, the campaign will feature powerful stories, video interviews, and student testimonials shared across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The campaign is focused on three key messages:
- Raising awareness about duel enrollment and college express programs that allow students to earn college credits while still in high school.
- Highlighting real stories of people who have built careers without a four-year degree – showing how it’s possible.
- Proving that Vermilion County is a place where you can built a good life, earn a strong living, and stay close to what matters.
“We’re tracking two things: awareness and perception,” says Alicia Moody, founder of The Vortex and creative lead for the campaign. “When we align the image and message with the real value this community offers, students start to see what’s possible, believe it’s for them, and step forward to lead right here in Vermilion County.”
(Information for the above story provided in a news release.)
