INA, Ill. (June 25, 2024) — Rend Lake College was awarded $348,765.00 for the new Trades grant that started June 1, 2024, until June 30, 2025. This Trades grant allows the expansion of dual credit coursework offered to participating students, offers work-based learning opportunities, hosts career exploration events, sponsors community outreach events and provides wrap around student support services.
Expansion of Dual Credit Coursework:
In addition to the four courses already being offered to dual credit students participating in grant activities, IST 1291 – Basic Electronics for Technicians will be added to the available dual credit offerings. In addition to coursework focused on topics related to manufacturing, students will also gain knowledge in basic employability skills. Grant activities will include a pilot program where traditional and non-traditional students within the Industrial Electronics program will serve as mentors for the dual credit students completing coursework at the Southern Illinois Manufacturing Academy.
Work-based Learning Opportunities:
Students will be exposed to work-based learning opportunities that exist within a manufacturing operation. Students will gain the skills needed to be prepared to meet workplace expectations.
Career Exploration Events:
Jr and Sr High school student participants will be encouraged to attend in-person career exploration events hosted by the College to expose them to career opportunities within the trade sectors emphasized. Students will participate in hands-on demonstrations and will be exposed to professionals within the trades. College staff will also be visiting district middle school students to educate them on careers in the trades utilizing visual reality technology. The College will host career camps made available to middle school and high school students focused on trade career pathways.
Community Outreach Events:
The College will sponsor community outreach events to highlight the trades and opportunities that exist within the district for community members interested in pursuing a career within the identified pathways. The College will sponsor these events within the local communities to inform the public of grant activities and use them as opportunities for career exploration and recruitment of future participants.
Wrap Around Student Support Services:
A success coach will serve as the primary point of contact for students. The College recruiter will spend a portion of his/her time visiting local high schools to inform them of opportunities. In addition, College staff will be responsible for identifying barriers to retention and completion related to coursework and instructional matters.
