Pathways to Independence

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The Pathways to Independence program at Joliet Junior College is designed to support neurodiverse individuals as they develop the skills, confidence and independence needed to thrive in adult life and the workforce. This inclusive program encompasses the Vocational Skills track, offering structured, supportive learning environments for students transitioning from high school and for adults seeking continued growth beyond traditional education.

Through hands-on training, personalized instruction and strong community partnerships, Pathways to Independence helps participants explore career options, build practical life and job skills and connect meaningfully with others. Whether students are just beginning their journey toward independence or continuing their development, this programming provides the tools and encouragement needed to reach their full potential.

Vocational Skills

The Vocational Skills program helps neurodiverse students, ages 18-22 years old, learn job skills and how to live independently. Offered through JJC's Center for Continuing Education in collaboration with local school districts, the program provides specialized instruction to ensure full engagement in the learning process. 

Classes cover topics such as career exploration, creative arts, culinary kitchen skills, computer and technology skills, entrepreneurship, personal finance and safety training. Each class requires a specific reading level, and students must be able to participate in courses mostly independently.

Please note, students do not have to be attending a high school transition program in order to participate with Vocational Skills. They have the option to self-pay. If the student is registering as a self-pay participant and they attend a transition program, please make sure to consult with their district transition coordinator prior to registration. Please email Christine Costabile for more information. 

Vocational Skills Registration

Registration for the Fall 2026 semester will take place the same way it has in the past. Registration packets will be sent out to self-pay students and school district representatives on April 20 by 3 p.m. The packets will contain all class fees and class dates, as well as the registration forms. 

To help students, schools and guardians to better prepare for the fall semester, we have prepared a preview of the classes. 

Main Campus

• 3D Printing: Mondays, 10 a.m.-Noon
• Art and Entrepreneurship: Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Career Exploration: All Around JJC: Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Computer Essentials: Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Money Basics and Personal Finance: Fridays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Romeoville Campus

• Sustainable Style: Mondays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Computer Essentials: Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Kitchen Basics I: Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon
• Advanced Kitchen Basics: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon
• Build Independence: Hands-On Life Skills: Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Between 2 Buns and a Bowl: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon
• Web Design and Development: Fridays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Lifelong Wellness: Fridays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon

City Center Campus

• Around the World: International Cooking: Mondays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon
• Restaurant Favorites: Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon
• It's Time for Breakfast: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon
• Baking Basics: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon
• Kitchen Confidence: Fridays, 9:30 a.m.-Noon

Off Site 

• Introduction to Plant Propagation and Horticulture: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-Noon (Sunshine Garden Center, Diamond, Ill.)

FALL 2026 VOCATIONAL SKILLS CLASS DESCRIPTIONS