Talent advancement in Lake County depends on strong connections—between education and industry, between data and decision-making and between opportunity and access. At College of Lake County, that work is intentional and sustained, bringing together employers, community partners and educators to build pathways that move individuals into high-demand careers and support long-term economic growth.
This approach is embedded in the Community Vibrancy pillar of CLC’s 2030 Strategic Plan, which focuses on expanding access to education, supporting students through completion and ensuring that credentials translate into meaningful workforce outcomes.
Strategies are backed by a multi-year effort to build a culture of evidence, aligning student success initiatives with shared data, consistent measurement and broader access to insights across the institution. The result is measurable progress in student outcomes:
- First-to-second term retention increased from 74% to 79%, with gains for Black students (+8 points), Latinx students (+4) and part-time students (+7)
- Three-year graduation rates increased 10 points, from 29% to 39% for first-time, full-time, credential-seeking students
- Graduates increased by 16%, including a 40% rise in workforce-aligned certificate programs
- Credentials awarded since FY19 increased 71%
CLC’s sustained progress has been reaffirmed through its recertification as a 2026 Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction, recognizing measurable gains and a strong culture of data-informed continuous improvement. CLC was also recently named among the 200 colleges eligible for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, a marker of the dedication of faculty and staff to enact transformative change efforts in student access and success.
CLC’s Curriculum is Aligned with Industry Needs
CLC’s talent development strategy is grounded in direct collaboration through advisory boards with employers, economic development leaders and workforce partners. Academic programs are designed and continuously updated based on real-time labor market demand, ensuring students graduate with skills that translate immediately into the workplace.
Career pathways span high-demand industries including manufacturing, healthcare and information technology—fields critical to Lake County’s economic future. Hands-on training in manufacturing and skilled trades takes place at CLC’s Advanced Technology Center in Gurnee, where students learn to use industry-grade equipment that mirrors real-world environments.
Work-Based Learning Leads to Employment
Applied learning is a core component of the student journey at CLC. Through internships, apprenticeships and clinical placements, students gain practical, real-world training while building connections with local employers. CLC supports more than 73 apprenticeships across 17 employer partners, expanding access to earn-and-learn opportunities in high-demand fields. These experiences strengthen students’ skill development and often lead directly to employment opportunities within the region, helping retain talent in Lake County.
Responding to Workforce Needs
CLC is a key partner in advancing equitable access to career training through state-funded initiatives such as the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA). Through CEJA-funded programs, CLC is expanding access to careers in clean energy, preparing students for emerging roles while supporting Illinois’ broader sustainability and workforce goals. These programs create pathways into growing industries while prioritizing equity and inclusion.
CLC’s Urban Farm Center in Waukegan further expands this work through community-based workforce development. When complete, the $21 million center will provide hands-on training in sustainable agriculture and food systems, creating accessible entry points to careers while addressing food access and economic opportunity in underserved communities.
Upskilling the Existing Workforce
In addition to preparing new entrants for the workforce, CLC supports incumbent workers through customized training and professional development. By partnering with employers, the college helps workers build new skills, adapt to evolving technology and advance in their careers. Serving new and existing workers ensures businesses can grow and maintain a competitive workforce.
Powered by Regional Partnerships
CLC’s impact is amplified through collaboration with organizations including Lake County Partners, Lake County Workforce Development and local school districts. Together, these partnerships create a connected talent ecosystem that supports individuals from early career exploration through long-term advancement.
Driving Economic Growth in Lake County, Illinois
By developing talent locally, CLC contributes directly to the strength and resilience of the regional economy. Employers gain access to a skilled, adaptable workforce, while residents benefit from clear pathways to family-sustaining careers.
The Talent Development Award reflects this sustained impact—recognizing College of Lake County as a leader in workforce innovation, a partner in shaping Lake County’s economic future and the place where every student succeeds and every employee thrives so that every business achieves and every community grows.