THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE RELEASE
DANVILLE, Ill. – For individuals looking to build a career in the skilled trades, Danville Area Community College’s Construction Program is providing students with the training, certifications, industry connections, and hands-on experience needed to take the first step toward a rewarding career.
The program is offered as a 12-week course during the summer and a 16-week course during the fall and spring semesters. Designed as a career readiness program, students are introduced to a wide variety of skilled trades rather than specializing in a single field. Throughout the program, students hear directly from industry professionals and union representatives currently working in the trades, helping them identify career paths that best match their interests and abilities.
“This is a foundation program for all of the trades,” said co-instructor Doug Hunter. “Our goal is to help students discover opportunities, build essential skills, and connect with employers and apprenticeship programs.”
Students who complete the program earn college credits along with several industry-recognized credentials, including:
· NCCER Core Certification
· OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification
· First Aid/CPR Certification
In addition, students receive a stipend of $14.50 per hour while attending classes, helping offset expenses while they pursue training.
Program requirements include Illinois residency, a valid driver’s license, and a high school diploma or GED.
While completion of the program does not guarantee employment, it prepares students to apply for Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Programs and provides opportunities to develop professional resumes and network with industry representatives actively recruiting and interviewing candidates.
One recent success story is 25-year-old Danville High School graduate Cassiopeia Cook, who is now pursuing a career through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).
Cook’s interest in the trades began while working for 411, also known as Call Julie, where she spent nearly three years. Her path changed after attending a job fair at DACC.
“I walked down the aisle and talked to all of the different trades,” Cook said. “Doug Hunter was the only one who shook my hand, and that made an impression on me.”
Inspired by that interaction, Cook applied, interviewed, and was accepted into DACC’s 16-week Construction Program. During the course, students are encouraged to apply to local unions of their choice. Cook selected the Sheet Metal Workers, the Laborers Union, and the IBEW.
Her first choice was the IBEW. After successfully passing the required aptitude test, she was selected to begin the process of becoming a journeyman electrician.
Cook will begin her apprenticeship this August through the IBEW’s “learn and earn” model, which allows apprentices to earn a paycheck while attending classes. The union also provides educational materials, including books, as part of the program. Even before formal schooling begins, apprentices may be called by contractors to gain valuable on-the-job experience.
“The great thing about our local IBEW is that they train you in all areas of the job,” Cook said. “Others may only train you in one area, such as conduit bending. You get way more opportunities here.”
For those considering enrolling in DACC’s Construction Program, Cook offers simple advice.
“Don’t hesitate,” she said. “Get over that fear of ‘What if I can’t?’ All of the instructors in the program are great, and they are there to help you every step of the way.”
The Construction Program is led by co-instructors Doug Hunter, Troy Wiley, and Dr. Ben Jung, who bring years of industry experience and a commitment to helping students launch successful careers in the skilled trades.
The next cohort starts August 17.
For more information about the Danville Area Community College Construction Program, contact Danville Area Community College or visit the college’s website.
217-443-8882 or dacc.edu/depts/tech/programs/IllinoisWorks
