Workforce Empowerment Initiative Grant (WEI)
The Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI) is a statewide grant program focused on
removing barriers and expanding access to career training for individuals and communities
across Illinois. Through education, resources, and support, the WEI Grant helps students
pursue in-demand careers that lead to long-term stability and living-wage opportunities.
What is the WEI Grant?
The Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI) is a statewide grant program designed to
expand career training opportunities for individuals from distressed communities,
helping them gain credentials and jobs that pay above the living wage.
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Removes financial barriers like tuition, childcare, transportation, and supplies.
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Supports new student services and in-demand training programs.
To apply for WEI funding at Prairie State College, students must:
- Attend an orientation (virtual or on campus).
- Complete the online application.
- Participate in an interview with a WEI team member.
For more information, email: weigrant@prairiestate.edu
WEI Grant funds awarded by Prairie State College are not transferable and may only
be applied to Prairie State College programs
Students receiving WEI funding are expected to stay engaged with WEI advisors and
pursue employment or career advancement after completing their programs. Follow-up
support continues up to 10 months after completion.
In-Demand Training Options:
WEI funds a wide range of non-credit and credit programs at 快色直播 - from healthcare
and emergency services to skilled trades and technology.
- Automotive Technician (Ford Referral Only)
- CDL (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Construction
- Dialysis Patient Care Technician (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Forklift (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Human Resource Management - aPHR Certificate (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Medical Central Service Technician (Sterilization) (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Phlebotomy Technician (Funding for 2026)
- OSHA (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Welding
The Workforce Development and Community Education division will no longer offer the Clinical Medical Assistant course after the spring 2026 semester.
- Automotive Technician
- Basic Firefighter I (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Basic Firefighter II
- CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Dental Assistant
- Firefighter/ EMT Certification (Funding for Spring 2026)
- Google IT
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
- Industrial Electrician
- Nursing (A.A.)
- Paramedic
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Welding
Due to updated funding availability, WEI is unable to provide stipend support for Nursing tuition and NCLEX exam costs, Dental Hygiene tuition and NBDHE exam costs, and Surgical Technology stipends as originally projected and budgeted.
*Credit Courses must be completed by September 30, 2026
In an effort to identify needs and resources, students receiving WEI grant funds are
expected to speak with the Retention Advisor monthly by email, phone or on campus
visit.
Get Started Today!
- Attend an orientation
- Complete your application
- Connect with a WEI advisor
We're here to Help
Our WEI team is here to support you every step of the way. From orientation to program
completion, our dedicated staff provide guidance, resources, and encouragement to
help you stay on track and reach your career goals. Email weigrant@prairiestate.edu for more information.
Brian Stanley, M.P.A., M.A.
Director
bstanley1@prairiestate.edu
708-709-3561 (ATOC)
708-709-3554 (Matteson Area Center)
Office A115
Grace L. McGinnis, MPA
Dean of Enrollment Management
708-709-3519
F: 708-709-3716
gmcginnis@prairiestate.edu
Lisa Porter
Retention Advisor
lporter7@prairiestate.edu
708-709-3618
Chauna Powell
Retention Advisor
cpowell8@prairiestate.edu
708-709-3656
Denise Redick
Outreach Coordinator
Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI) Grant
dredick@prairiestate.edu
708-709-3533
.