MEETING STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE

The Advanced Technology Center created from a vacant big-box store in Gurnee is not only a tech resource for the local manufacturing workforce but also an educational homebase for students working toward a secure future. Jobs that pay a family-sustaining wage sit on the other side of their skills-based training, and with stackable credentials, students can build their careers through continued training at CLC. Strategically created with a vision of training a sufficient and diverse skilled talent pipeline for the manufacturing industry, the ATC is loaded with features to help students succeed.

Dr. Ali O’Brien, CLC Vice President of Community and Workforce Partnerships, a pivotal player in the creation of the ATC, shared some of her thoughts:

Q. WHAT EXCITES YOU THE MOST ABOUT THE ATC?

It’s really going to change lives. Every part of this project focuses on making our communities stronger, with Industry 4.0 careers and family-sustaining wages. The manufacturing industry is a major employer in Lake County and offers each student who wants to take up the reins a high-skill, high-pay and in-demand job. Concerted efforts to diversify the manufacturing workforce are also exciting. CLC is part of an Industry and Inclusion 2.0 cohort, sponsored by The Century Foundation and organized by the Urban Manufacturing Alliance. This partnership helps us meet students where they are and helps students see themselves as a talented part of this growing network.

Q. HOW DOES CLC MEET STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE?

Students are busy, working people so we make classes flexible, build a curriculum rich with life skills and support students beyond the classroom with whatever they need to succeed – bus passes, food for their families, mental health services and more. We even have shower facilities on-site. The ATC offers hands-on learning, and we want to help fit those learning opportunities into our students’ schedules.

Q. HOW ARE THESE COURSES DIFFERENT FROM THE TRADITIONAL CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE?

Students taking industrial technology courses at the ATC will benefit from a new delivery method. Students independently study online modules that mimic situations in the manufacturing industry, and then come to the labs to practice. Each course has an instructor who takes the role of mentor or coach, because that’s what students will experience when they’re on the job. If we can help students know what to expect and feel comfortable working in that environment, we’ve done our job well.

Q. WHAT IF STUDENTS DON’T HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY?

We know not everyone has access to reliable internet or a computer that isn’t shared with others in their family, so we built free and accessible computer lab spaces into the ATC. The facility is open morning, noon and night. Students can come in whenever they have time to do their work at their own pace.