Vocational Skills

Welcome to JJC's Vocational Skills program! The Vocational Skills program helps neurodiverse students learn job skills and how to live independently. This community education program is provided by Corporate & Community Services in partnership with area school districts.

About Vocational Skills

Neurodiverse students often benefit from specialized instruction to ensure they can fully access and engage in the learning process. By partnering with JJC through Vocation Skills programming, these students are guaranteed a tailored approach that meets their personalized needs.

Vocational Skills classes are specially selected to encourage independence. Vocational Skills instructors are very adept at working with neurodiverse students and recognizing the students' unique talents and interests.  

Getting Involved with Vocational Skills Classes

Corporate & Community Services partners with area high school transition programs and lets them determine which of their students would be the best fit for this program. Transportation to and from JJC campuses and payment for the classes are arranged by the schools.

If you have neurodiverse high school students that you would like to enroll in Vocational Skills, please contact Christine Costabile, coordinator, community education, at christine.costabile@jjc.edu or (815) 280-2243 to discuss your options.

Spring 2025 Vocational Skills Classes

Vocational Skills classes are currently offered at three of JJC's campuses. Each class requires a reading ability level. Students must be able to participate in courses mostly independently. Classes cover topics such as career exploration, creative arts, culinary kitchen skills, computer and technology skills, entrepreneurship, personal finance and safety training, and the courses change each semester.

  • City Center Campus

    Around the World Cooking: International Cooking (LLC 124)

    Third grade reading level required.

    Embark on a culinary journey across continents and cultures in this vibrant and interactive cooking class. Students will discover unique ingredients and spices while chopping, sauteing, simmering and mixing up popular international dishes. Students will also learn the cultural significance and historical background of each dish they create.

    Fast Food Industry Basics (LLC 126)

    Third grade reading level required.

    This course is designed to provide students an introduction to the fast-food industry, focusing on fundamental skills and knowledge necessary for employment. Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on activities, and simulated workplace experiences, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of the fast food industry, as well as working in a commercial kitchen.

    Food Handler's Certification (LLC 030)

    Students in this class must be able to work completely independently. They must also be able to read, comprehend and write English at a third grade (or higher) reading level.

    This class prepares students to complete the Illinois Food Handler License Exam which will be administered online at the end of the semester. The class will focus on the acquisition and application of basic food handling sanitation practices needed to work in the food service industry. This class is built around hands-on activities but also includes computer-based learning.

    Weekly Spotlight (LLC 127)

    Third grade reading level required.

    Embark on a flavorful expedition with our National Food Day cooking class! Each week students will plan ahead, review on-hand ingredients, generate a shopping list and create a beloved national dish being celebrated that week. Whether it be National Pancake Day or National Taco Day, students will be empowered to think on their toes and put their culinary skills to the test. Students will learn the art of crafting recipes, master essential techniques and discover the cultural significance behind each dish.

    The World of Baking

    Second grade reading level required.

    Embark on a delightful journey though the world of baking that includes baking fundamentals, bread making techniques and creative baking opportunities like muffins, cookies, bread pudding, pretzels and more! Our supportive environment ensures that every participant can develop their baking skills, gain confidence, and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Recipes will provide some visuals to aid emergent and intermediate learners.

  • Main Campus

    3D Printing (LLC 118)

    Third grade reading level required.

    In this hands-on class, students will explore the ins and outs of 3D printing. Students will use basic 3D printers, 3D digital models and their associated programs. Students will print different products while being challenged to think of a new product that could solve a common problem. They will also learn how 3D printing is used in different industries. 

    Art & Entrepreneurship (LLC 106)

    Second grade reading level required.

    This course is designed for the future artists who wish to explore the multifaceted world of art while cultivating essential entrepreneurial skills. Throughout the semester, students will delve into various modes of artistic expression while collaboratively planning and executing an end of the semester art fair. This class is led by local artist and entrepreneur Shane Rotkis, who is excited to share tips she's learned as an artist and entrepreneur with her students.

    Career Exploration: All Around JJC (LLC 121)

    No reading level required.

    This immersive and interactive class is designed to explore a wide array of career options in various fields. Through engaging workshops, campus tours and insightful discussions, participants will gain valuable insights into professions such as architecture, welding, automotive, veterinary technology, construction management, nursing, electrical, culinary arts and more! Tours vary from semester to semester.

    Computer Essentials: Office Skills (LLC 103)

    Third grade reading level required.

    In today's fast-paced digital landscape, proficiency in software tools is essential for success. This project-based course offers a perfect blend of Microsoft Office and Canva essentials. Students will utilize Microsoft's suite, including Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint while creating professional documents, mastering spreadsheet manipulation, and crafting captivating presentations. Students will also learn basic marketing techniques and how to create eye-catching flyers and invitations in Canva. This class will help students acquire basic office skills and provide practical experience to put on their resumes. This class is designed to be progressive, allowing students to build on their skills each semester.

    Money Basics and Personal Finance (LLC 120)

    Third grade reading level required.

    This course is designed to provide students a comprehensive overview of fundamental concepts and practical strategies for effective money management and personal finance. Over the course of the class, students will work on a budgeting project while learning how to write checks, balance a checkbook, how money is handled in the workplace, as well as some basic budgeting, saving and investing education.

    OSHA 10 General Industry Safety and Health Class (LLC 128)

    This class is offered to individuals whose disabilities would not preclude them from working in a maintenance, manufacturing or warehouse environment. Students must be 18 years old to attend. Third grade reading level required.

    This class prepares students for jobs in a variety of industries. It focuses on safety basics and health hazards that can be encountered in the workplace. Students that complete the class satisfactorily will receive an OSHA-10 Course Completion Card.

  • Romeoville Campus

    3D Printing (LLC 118)

    Third grade reading level required.

    In this hands-on class, students will explore the ins and outs of 3D printing. Students will use basic 3D printers, 3D digital models and their associated programs. Students will print different products while being challenged to think of a new product that could solve a common problem. They will also learn how 3D printing is used in different industries.

    Breakfast Highlights

    Second grade reading level required.

    There is a reason that breakfast is called the most important meal of the day. Students will learn to make pancakes, French toast, bacon, and more through the use of oven cooking and a griddle. Dishes will increase in difficulty throughout the semester. If you love breakfast and want to increase your confidence in making these items for yourself and others, this is the class for you! Recipes will provide some visuals to aid emergent and intermediate learners.

    Computer Essentials: Office Skills (LLC 103)

    Third grade reading level required.

    In today's fast-paced digital landscape, proficiency in software tools is essential for success. This project-based course offers a perfect blend of Microsoft Office and Canva essentials. Students will utilize Microsoft's suite, including Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint while creating professional documents, mastering spreadsheet manipulation, and crafting captivating presentations. Students will also learn basic marketing techniques and how to create eye-catching flyers and invitations in Canva. This class will help students acquire basic office skills and provide practical experience to put on their resumes. This class is designed to be progressive, allowing students to build on their skills each semester.

    Culinary Experiments (LLC 131)

    Third grade reading level required.

    Get ready to mix, measure and munch your way through this one-of-a-kind class! This class is designed to ignite curiosity and stimulate taste buds. Students will embark on a series of edible experiments, uncovering the fascinating science behind their favorite foods. From making ice cream and bread in a bag to turning hard candy into lollipops, students will delight in creating edible creations while learning about key scientific concepts. Dis we mention edible slime? This class promises to be as education as it is delicious! 

    Grill Master (LLC 129)

    Second grade reading level required.

    Do you enjoy the sound and smell of something sizzling on the grill? How long do you let something cook and when do you know when it's done? If you've always wanted to be called a grill master and grow in your mastery of grilling basics, preparation techniques and grilling technique, this class is the one you will want to take. Recipes will provide some visuals to aid emergent and intermediate learners.

After 22

New in Spring 2025! In response to a need we have seen within our community, we have developed Vocational Skills classes for neurodiverse students ages 22 and up who have aged out of high school programming. These fun and engaging classes help students learn new skills and explore their interests.

Thanks to generous funding from a grant, the cost for After 22 classes has been greatly reduced for the Spring 2025 semester.

Getting Involved with After 22 Classes

Continued Success classes are open to any neurodiverse adult, ages 22 and up, but registration is handled by JJC's Disability Services office. To learn more about After 22 classes and whether they are the right fit for you or your student, please fill out the interest form, and a member of the Disability Services office will connect with you.

AFTER 22 INTEREST FORM

Spring 2025 After 22 Classes

Since this is a pilot program in Spring 2025, we are only offering two After 22 classes.

  • Art & Entrepreneurship (LLC 107)

    This class is for future artists who want to learn about art and how to sell their creations. You will try different art projects and plan an art fair at the end of the semester. Local artist Shane Rotkis will teach you and share her tips. A class aide with be there to help you.

    Dates
    Tuesdays, Feb. 4-March 25

    Time
    4:30-6:30 p.m.

    Location
    JJC Main Campus

    Cost
    $40 per student

  • Around the World Cooking (LLC 132)

    Travel the world through cooking! In this class, you will learn to cook dishes from different countries. You will use unique ingredients and spices to make tasty meals. You will also learn about the history and culture of each dish. A class aide will be there to help you.

    Dates
    Thursdays, Feb. 6-March 27

    Time
    5-7 p.m.

    Location
    JJC City Center Campus

    Cost
    $40 per student