LWA 3: Absolute Fire Protection

Absolute Fire Protection is an industry leader in fire protection and prevention services in Northern Illinois with strong ties to the community. The company has a great need for skilled talent to install, test, repair, and perform maintenance on fire sprinkler systems — a critical role that encompasses many different skill sets.

LWA 6: Klein Tools

Founded in 1857, Klein Tools is a family owned and operated company that designs and manufacturers premium quality, professional-grade hand tools for electricians and other tradespeople. Like many manufacturers, finding skilled talent has become increasingly difficult over the past decade.

LWA 7: The Chicago Lighthouse

The Chicago Lighthouse has been helping individuals from Chicago’s marginalized communities for 117 years, specifically helping people who are blind or visually impaired since the 1920s. The organization’s main focus, particularly for Employment Services Program, are individuals living in low-income, high-need communities.

LWA 10: NFI Industries

The Business Services team from the Workforce Services Division of Will County nominates Jen Cook and NFI Industries for the Business Leadership Award. We met Jen back in March 2023, and it has developed into a true partnership for our On-The-Job Training program. Jen has been amazing at communicating where the OJT candidates are in their pipeline.

LWA 15: Liberty Steel and Wire

Liberty Steel and Wire in Peoria, Illinois, is a nominee for the Business Leadership Award for their partnership and collaboration on a new apprenticeship program for electrical apprentices in 2022. Working with Career Link and Illinois Central College, Liberty Steel developed a two-year training apprenticeship curriculum to provide employees with opportunities to upskill, receive promotions, and increase their wages.