Southwestern Illinois is building the workforce of tomorrow. Through coordinated regional programs and state-supported initiatives, the region ensures businesses have access to skilled employees while residents gain opportunities to train for careers in high-demand industries. Workforce development here is proactive, targeted, and tied directly to economic growth.
Southwestern Illinois leverages the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs in Illinois to create clear career pathways for job seekers and hiring leaders. Through the WIOA workforce program and other initiatives, thousands of residents annually gain education, hands-on training, and support services to enter industries like healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and technology. These programs prepare job seekers for meaningful careers while providing businesses with employees ready to meet industry-specific needs.
In 2025, nearly 300 residents in Southern Illinois cities participated in WIOA programs, acquiring certifications and skills aligned with employer demand.
Local workforce development boards across the region coordinate training with employers to ensure programs reflect the real-time needs of the labor market.
Through partnerships with community colleges, regional training centers, and industry-specific programs, companies can access customized workforce solutions. Employers can collaborate on curriculum development, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training to ensure their teams have the exact skills required for success.
Local colleges graduate hundreds of students annually in engineering, healthcare, IT, and technical fields. Apprenticeship and vocational programs in the region supply thousands of trainees annually, ready to enter manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare roles.
Whether launching a new operation or expanding an existing one, businesses in Southwestern Illinois can grow with confidence knowing skilled talent is available.
Southwestern Illinois’ workforce network stretches across nine counties, connecting businesses, training providers, and local government resources. Programs are designed to meet the region’s evolving labor market, offering everything from entry-level training to advanced technical certifications. With a talent pool of over 273,000 workers, the second-largest population in Illinois, businesses can find the skills they need, while job seekers gain access to education, apprenticeships, and certifications in high-demand fields. Partnerships with local workforce boards and the Illinois Department of Labor Board ensure these programs stay aligned with industry needs, creating a coordinated network that supports both employers and employees.
Scott Air Force Base is a key driver of the region’s workforce, producing both technical and managerial talent. Local workforce development programs collaborate with the base to help integrate veteran and civilian talent into Southern Illinois industries. Scott AFB supports 8,900 direct full-time jobs and nearly 40,000 total positions, contributing over $2 billion annually in wages and benefits. Veterans and civilians from the base bring specialized skills in cybersecurity, logistics, and STEM fields, creating valuable employment opportunities and strengthening the regional talent pool for businesses.
Southwestern Illinois makes workforce development in Illinois a priority. State and regional programs, from Worknet Illinois to local workforce development boards, provide businesses with skilled employees while supporting job seekers in career advancement. Residents gain opportunities for education, apprenticeships, and training through WIOA programs, employment centers, and regional partnerships.
Whether you’re looking to expand your workforce or start a new business, Southwestern Illinois provides the tools, talent, and networks to succeed.