CEJA Workforce Program

The CEJA (Climate & Equitable Jobs Act) Workforce Hubs program aims to create a qualified, diverse pipeline of workers prepared for careers in clean energy by providing FREE training in clean energy pathways, wrap around services, and employment readiness.

Eligibility

CEJA serves individuals 18+, prioritizing those in R3 or Environmental Justice communities—areas impacted by pollution, economic hardship, or underinvestment. Displaced energy workers, foster care members/graduates, and individuals facing other employment barriers may also be eligible.

Check out our map to see if you live in an R3 or Environmental Justice Community:

CEJA MAP

Interested in Clean Energy? Start Here

Follow the steps below to start your pathway to clean energy

  1. Complete our Prescreening Application

    Prescreening Application

    Someone from the CEJA team will be in contact within 2 business days to discuss initial eligibility and register you for an available information session

  2. Attend an Information Session

    You will be contacted by a CEJA team member to register/complete a CEJA Program information session detailing eligibility process, program options, and training outcomes.

  3. Register for Basic Skills Exam

    Work with CEJA team member following the information session to complete CASAS basic skills testing 

  4. Meet With Your Career Planner

    After completing required steps, you will meet with a career planner to determine final steps of eligibility and registration for the CEJA Workforce Hub Programs

CEJA Bridge Program

Begin your pathway to clean energy with the FREE CEJA bridge training program and gain certifications in OSHA 10, CPR, and learn from the NCCER Core Construction curriculum. Topics include:

  • Essential Employability Skills
  • Introduction to Sustainability and Clean Energy Careers
  • Electrical Basics
  • Building Energy Basics
  • Construction Basics

Advanced Training Pathways

Following the completion of the CEJA Bridge Program, have the opportunity to continue your training with the following job-specific clean energy training options: 

  • Electric Vehicle Technician
  • EV Charging Station Installation and Maintenance
  • Residential Energy Auditing 

Supporting Your Success

We are here to remove barriers that stand in the way of your career goals

  • Earn While You Learn

    All CEJA participants will receive a stipend of $13/hour while they attend training. This allows participants to focus on their training and career pathway. 

  • Supportive Services

    CEJA participants will have access to wrap around and transition support services including transportation assistance, childcare, food support, and more. 

  • Work-Based Learning and Employment

    CEJA allows students to participant in work-based learning experiences, allowing you to gain hands-on experience and awareness in your field of interest. 

    Transition and employment supports are also available. Let us help you find sustainable employment!

The CEJA Workforce Hubs Program is funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) through the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).