INA, Ill. (April 28, 2026) — In honor of National Apprenticeship Week, Rend Lake College is celebrating the latest cohort of Industrial Mechatronics and Maintenance (IMM) apprentices. Through a partnership with Continental Tire’s ICATT program, these students are navigating a unique educational model that blends technical training with real-world application.
The 2026 IMM Apprentice Cohort: (L-R) Saige Price (Mt. Vernon), Aaron Korbar (Du Quoin), Anthony Garrison (Mt. Vernon), Caleb Carter (Texico), Matthew McKinney (Mt. Vernon), Sawyer Lusby (Mt. Vernon), and Kolten Wynn (Benton).
The program offers a comprehensive "earn-while-you-learn" experience, providing students with fully funded tuition and a fixed weekly schedule that balances classroom time with on-the-job training. Based at the Southern Illinois Manufacturing Academy in the RLC MarketPlace, apprentices train on the same advanced technology used in modern factories, ensuring they are fully prepared for the gainful employment that awaits them upon graduation.
RLC is expanding its apprenticeship program through new regional partnerships. The college is currently scaling its offerings to include programs in culinary arts, early childhood education, and welding, in addition to its growing industrial maintenance tracks. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between education and industry by creating a robust workforce tailored to the specific needs of local employers.
The benefits extend beyond the classroom to the businesses themselves. Partnering companies gain access to a reliable pipeline of trained talent, supplemented by up to $5,000 in tax benefits per apprentice. To maintain high standards, RLC provides employers with weekly progress reports on attendance and grades. Individuals or business representatives interested in joining this growing network are encouraged to contact the college at 618-437-5321, ext. 1280 or by email at CommCorpEd@rlc.edu.