Big Shoulders, Big Challenges: Preparing Chicago’s Workforce for the New Economy

Publication Date: September 2005

Publisher: Chicago Jobs Council

Author(s): Jennier Keeling; Whitney Smith

Research Area: Economics; Labor

Keywords: workforce development ; readiness programs ; low-families

Type: Report

Coverage: Illinois

Abstract:

The report finds that many people in Chicago lack the work skills necessary to thrive in the labor market and have trouble accessing the kinds of programs that would help them prepare for a career. It argues that the future of Chicago's economy depends on investing in services that help people gain job skills.

It finds that the federal, state, and city government spent nearly $300 million in 2004 to support workforce development programs in Chicago that included adult basic education, GED certificate preparation, job readiness workshops, career awareness and planning support, job placement assistance, and employer services.

Though that represents a large investment, the report documents how certain populations are not targeted for services or targeted with too few resources. Notably, the report says not enough resources serve immigrants, refugees, seniors, veterans, and the homeless -- and members of those groups must be a vital part of the workforce, as the report said that 41 percent of the city's workforce will retire over the next 15 years. It also cites Chicago's low high school graduation rate as a problem, and recommends a number of job preparation interventions.