INA, Ill. (April 21, 2025) — Rend Lake College's Southern Illinois Manufacturing Academy (SIMA) has been thriving with students in the apprenticeship program since its opening in November 2024. The academy is playing a crucial role in filling the skills gap and preparing workers for well-paying, in-demand jobs.
RLC apprenticeship programs are an employer-driven 'learn while you earn' model that provides flexible credit curriculum combined with mentored, on-the-job, learning experiences. RLC's goal with the apprenticeship program is to increase students' skill set, while they receive industry-aligned education to meet specific industry and employer needs.
Freshman Braden Voss (Dahlgren) provides insight to the education he has received, and how it is preparing him for his future career.
"You actually get to put the skills you learn to use right away," said Voss. "Anything you didn't learn in class, you learn in the actual company you are working for on your job site. You get to learn by using their equipment and then also in the classroom."
Jackson Mills (Fairfield), an apprentice at Continental Tire, shared that he is able to get more involved with his work through the guidance of experienced professionals. Mills is able to get an early start in his career by acquiring skills before graduating.
"I have a great admiration for many of my instructors," said Mills. "They're all clearly intelligent individuals, and I've never once questioned their ability. This is something they all have a passion for."
RLC apprenticeships are paid positions, allowing students to earn while they learn through hands-on experience and on-the-job-training.
Braden Voss (Dahlgren)
"I don't have to save all my money to be able to pay off college debt or my books," said Voss. "The program gives me more freedom for me to use my money for tools and other equipment."
"[The apprenticeship program] is definitely a place you'd want to start off with," said Mills. "If you want to get a head start into manufacturing, this is a great way to get it."
For more information about the apprenticeship program, visit rlc.edu/apprenticeship, or email Brody Wilson, Coordinator of Industry & Apprenticeship, at wilsonb@rlc.edu.
For more information about SIMA, visit rlc.edu/southern-illinois-manufacturing-academy, or email Chris Sink, Director of Southern Illinois Manufacturing Academy, at sink@rlc.edu.
