John Paul Paonessa,
Freedman Seating Company
Freedman Seating Company (FSC) has been a long-time partner of JARC and has gone above and beyond to support the mission of JARC, as well as the manufacturing sector, and the Westside community. In September 2020, JARC launched its facility on the Westside, on the second floor of Freedman Seating Company’s building. FSC knew JARC was struggling to find a Westside space and offered up unused space, free of charge. JARC worked closely with FSC staff to build the space to be able to launch an impactful program. FSC has worked closely with JARC to create training in Mechanical Assembly that included industry knowledge, and allowing JARC to use its blueprints as an example to be incorporated into the curriculum. This ultimately sets up graduates of the program for jobs not only at Freedman Seating Company, but at other manufacturing companies because they now have relevant industry knowledge.
Freedman Seating continues to hire JARC graduates across all departments. FSC has hired more than 12 JARC graduates, and since 2017 has hired 32. FSC also promotes JARC training opportunities to current staff to help advance in their careers. FSC hosts events and tours for those interested in working in manufacturing, or in programs wanting to learn more about the industry.
FSC is located in and services the areas of Austin and West Humboldt Park, an area known for manufacturing corridors, which hold economic opportunity for residents. Freedman recognizes this and prioritizes being a leader in the community as a large employer.
JARC focused on the Austin community because it is Chicago’s largest community area and one of its most underserved. Austin zip codes 60644 and 60651 rank 5th and 6th respectively for number of residents returning out of prisons. Lack of opportunity and life chances are the greatest predictors of recidivism. JARC focused its efforts in the Austin community because its workforce programs in manufacturing provide pathways to background-friendly employment. Employer partners like Freedman Seating are crucial to providing opportunity for those deserving of a second chance. If a JARC graduate possesses the skills needed for the job, Freedman understands the value of hiring those with the stigma of criminal records and the affirmative implications this has for a community that is historically over-policed and under-funded. When Freedman hires an Austin resident that trained at JARC, they know that they are positively impacting not just the individual but the whole household — and community. Freedman understands the weighty responsibility of being a progressive employer in Austin, and encourage other employers to follow suit.
Freedman Seating is dedicated to remaining located in Chicago’s west side. They employ 600+ people in production/manufacturing, engineering, sales and other administrative roles. Of all employees, 75% live in the city of Chicago, as do both the CEO and Chairman. They are most proud that minorities and women make up 85% of our workforce, reflecting racial and gender diversity.
