Illinois Top Job Training Programs

City Colleges of Chicago offers career-focused certificate programs through its Future Ready initiative, helping students gain in-demand skills at no cost. These short-term programs are designed to prepare young adults for high-growth industries like healthcare, IT, and business.

Program Benefits:
Students can earn industry-recognized certificates that enhance chances of employment. The colleges are equipped with modern facilities and offer support services to ensure student success.

Interested?
Explore a range of programs and request more information here.

Year Up is a tuition-free program that connects young adults with professional training and paid internships at top companies. Year Up helps students gain hands-on experience and job placement support in careers like business, technology, and customer service.

Program Benefits:
Year Up combines hands-on experience with internships at leading companies. Students receive a weekly educational stipend during both the learning and development phase and the internship phase. Additionally, Year Up Chicago has a partnership with City Colleges of Chicago, allowing graduates to earn college credits that can be applied toward a degree.

Interested?
Get more information on their website.

City Year is a an AmeriCorps program where young adults serve as mentors and tutors in Chicago Public Schools, focusing on student success. The program emphasizes leadership skills and offers training to enhance personal and professional growth. Participants gain leadership experience while making a difference in education and their community.

Program Benefits:
Members receive a biweekly living stipend, health insurance, and an education award upon completing the program. Additionally, members receive free Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) transit passes for the entire year of service, helping students commute in the city.

Interested?
Apply here.

ChiCat’s Medical Coding provides students with specialized training to enter the healthcare industry. The program prepares participants for certification and employment in medical billing, coding, and healthcare administration.

Program Benefits:
ChiChat provides an enriching learning environment with access to emerging technologies, artist-led classes, and standards-based vocational training to support each person’s pathway. Participants can receive instruction in medical terminology, coding systems, and healthcare documentation, equipping them with the skills needed for entry-level positions.

Interested?
Learn more here.

The Sinai Urban Health Institute’s (SUHI) trains young adults to become Community Health Workers (CHWs). Through this free program, students learn core skills in behavioral health, health education, and public health advocacy to support underserved communities.

Program Benefits:
SUHI Public Health provides free training for Community Health Worker (CHW) certificates. The program covers core skills, aiming to promote health equity and prepare participants for roles in community health.

Interested?
Learn more here.