Clean energy jobs are growing across Southern Illinois. Solar installers and HVAC technicians are in demand across Southern Illinois. Training for these careers is free through the CEJA Workforce Hub programs, and eligibility requirements are broader than most people expect.
If you live in Southern Illinois, there’s a good chance you qualify. Here’s how to find out.
The Fastest Way to Check
Not sure if you’re eligible? Call (618-428-4460) or fill out the CEJA interest form. Our staff can look up your address, walk through the requirements with you, and answer your questions. Most people find out in a single conversation.
Who the Program Is For
To participate in the CEJA program, you must be at least 18 years old (or turn 18 by the time you complete training) and meet at least one of the following:
- You live in an R3 community. R3 stands for Restore, Reinvest, Renew. These are areas the state has identified for investment and opportunity. Tens of thousands of Southern Illinois residents live in R3 areas. Many qualify without realizing it.
- You’ve been in the foster care system. Current or former foster youth qualify for the program.
- You were formerly incarcerated. Individuals with prior criminal justice system involvement are eligible.
- You face barriers to employment. Our recruitment, selection, and support processes will actively welcome and prioritize people who have barriers to employment, such as:
- Having low incomes;
- Identifying as black, indigenous, or a person of color;
- Those who are or were in the child welfare system;
- Energy workers or dependents of displaced energy workers;
- Women;
- LGBTQ+ or gender nonconforming;
- Those having a disability, or
- Youth who belong to any of these groups
Many People Qualify
The CEJA program was written to reach people who haven’t always had access to career training. If you’ve faced obstacles, if your community has been overlooked, if the economy has shifted away from the work you used to do, this program is for you.
We’ve talked to plenty of people who assumed they wouldn’t qualify and were surprised to learn they did.
What Happens Next
Once we confirm you’re eligible, you’ll complete an application and work with our team to find the right training track for you. Programs typically run 12 to 16 weeks and include classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and industry certifications.
You get paid while you train. Tuition and materials are covered, too. And if you need help with transportation, childcare, or other challenges, the program provides support services to help you finish.
What to Expect During the CEJA Training Program
Counties We Serve
We serve residents of Jackson, Williamson, Jefferson, Franklin, Perry, Saline, Union, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Hardin, Gallatin, White, Hamilton, Wayne, Edwards, Wabash, Pulaski, and Alexander counties.
Take the Next Step
You don’t need to figure out eligibility on your own. Get in touch, and we’ll help you find out where you stand and what comes next.
Learn More About the CEJA Program | Contact Man-Tra-Con
Man-Tra-Con has served Southern Illinois since 1979, helping residents find careers and access training. As the CEJA Workforce Hub for the Carbondale region, we deliver free clean energy training to eligible Southern Illinois residents.