Insights
from the field
Learn with us as we share news from our community, the front-line, and experts in the policy field. Please contact us at info@cjc.net for any Chicago Jobs Council related news inquiries.
Blog Articles
Preparing Job Seekers for a Competitive Job Market in 2025
As we move further into 2025, the job market continues to evolve, shaped by a combination of technological advancements, shifting economic policies, and changing workforce demands. At the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), our mission is to equip our partners to prepare job seekers to navigate these changes with resilience and confidence.
Illinois Needs to Protect Workforce Equity Now
Federal actions are threatening opportunities for job seekers and workforce organizations across Illinois. See how Chicago Jobs Council is stepping up to protect equity and opportunity through a letter to the Governor's office. Learn more about our key recommendations and how we’re working with partners to drive change. Special thank you to all the partner organizations who have signed on to this letter.
Customized Training vs. Public Training: Tailored Solutions for Your Team
Discover how CJC’s tailored training solutions help workforce professionals break down barriers and create equitable opportunities for job seekers. From virtual sessions to in-person workshops, we design programs that meet your team’s unique needs. Plus, sign up for membership before April 1 to enjoy a 15% discount on your first customized training!
The Future of Workforce Funding: Advocacy for Equity in Uncertain Times
As Illinois enters a pivotal legislative session, the decisions made in the coming months will shape workforce development for years to come. Advocacy is essential to ensure that funding prioritizes equity and supports job seekers facing systemic barriers.
Discover how robust funding and dedicated leadership, including the need for a Chief Workforce Officer in Chicago, can drive meaningful change for workers, communities, and the workforce development system.
Workforce Convo Recap: Advancing Workforce Equity in a Shifting Policy Landscape
In a shifting policy landscape, workforce development organizations must advocate for equity and adapt to changing federal and state dynamics. Learn how to navigate challenges like the rescinding of DEI policies, funding freezes, and the need for stronger partnerships to ensure equal opportunities for marginalized communities.
Chicago Jobs Council Response to Executive Orders and Federal Funding Freeze
Recent executive actions threaten workforce equity by dismantling programs that support job seekers, employment specialists, and inclusive hiring practices. These changes put essential workforce development initiatives and opportunities for marginalized communities at risk. Learn how Chicago Jobs Council is advocating for equity and fighting to protect access to meaningful employment for all.
Reflecting on Membership Growth and Engagement
In Quarter 2, we launched a Membership Committee to focus on how we nurture and support our members. As a result, we’ve implemented more intentional strategies to improve the onboarding experience for new members.
Reflecting on the End 2024 Capacity Building
At CJC we are intentional about Capacity Building to equip the workforce development field.
CJC in the News
See where CJC has been mentioned in the news. Please contact us at info@cjc.net with any other Jobs Council related news event.
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“Gov. Pritzker Announces $44 Million Investment in Workforce Training“
Chicago Defender, September 23, 2021
“Illinois the Latest State to End Driver’s License Suspensions That Fuel Inequality”
Sam Mellins, Filter Mag, March 1, 2021
“Thousands of Illinois Drivers Would Get Their Licenses Back Under a Criminal Justice Reform Bill”
Melissa Sanchez, ProPublica, January 15, 2021 (reprinted in InjusticeWatch)
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“Illinois Senate Committees Discuss Inequity in Education Employment”
Sarah Mansur, Herald & Review, November 5, 2020
“Mayor Lori Lightfoot Defends Plan to Start Issuing Speed Camera Tickets for Cars Going 6 MPH Over the Limit as ‘Safety’ Issue. City Data Shows a More Complicated Picture.”
Gregory Pratt, Joe Mahr, and John Bryne, Chicago Tribune, October 27, 2020
“Mayor Lori Lightfoot Wants to Start Issuing Speed Camera Tickets for Cars Going 6 MPH Over the Limit.”
John Bryne and Gregory Pratt, Chicago Tribune, October 23, 2020
“5 New Laws to Know in Illinois.”
Amanda Vinicky, WTTW, July 1, 2020
“Chicago Temporarily Halts Some Ticketing and Debt Collections Amid Coronavirus Pandemic.”
Elliot Ramos, WBEZ Chicago, and Melissa Sanchez, ProPublica Illinois, March 18, 2020
“Tens of Thousands Lost Driver’s Licenses Over Unpaid Parking Tickets. Now, They’re Getting Them Back.”
Melissa Sanchez, ProPublica Illinois, and Elliot Ramos, WBEZ Chicago, January 17, 2020
“50,000 Cook County Residents Will Lose Food Stamps If They Don’t Find Work Soon, and The Clock is Ticking.”
Alexia Elejalde-Ruiz, Chicago Tribune, January 10, 2020