Lake County Gazette

Manufacturing is one of Illinois’ top industries, representing 18,000 companies across the state. To better understand the future of the industry, the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center, in collaboration with statewide stakeholders, released the Future of Illinois Manufacturing’ Foresight Report. This report is a roadmap exploring the macrotrends in the industry and how Illinois manufacturers can better adapt to workplace shifts and incorporate innovation to be more globally competitive in the future.

In celebration of Black History Month, the Workforce Board is pleased to share a collection of literature, documentaries, and picture galleries that cover the amazing achievements by Black Americans and other peoples of African descent. Black History Month is an opportunity to take time to learn and understand Black histories, going beyond stories of racism and slavery to spotlight Black achievement.

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program within the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Family and Community Services provides temporary financial assistance for pregnant women and families with one or more dependent children. TANF provides financial assistance to help pay for food, shelter, utilities, and expenses other than medical.

DHS-TANF is a key partner of the Lake County Workforce Development Board and is one of several organizations that participate in the Job Center under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

Briscoe graduated from the Revive Lake County program in late 2019 while he was still at the Lake County Jail. Following his release, he visited the Job Center of Lake County to meet with Revive team members. Although he applied for many jobs, Briscoe found that his background was a significant obstacle. He was determined, though, to find employment to support his family. His persistence paid off when he landed a manufacturing job. However, he only worked in that position for five months when he was laid off due to the pandemic.

During the pandemic, Briscoe maintained virtual contact with Revive team members and continued to apply for jobs. He was able to secure employment a few times, but each job was short-term. In early 2021, Briscoe was contacted by a previous coworker who had recently started his own construction company and was looking for hard-working individuals to join his crew. Briscoe accepted a position with TJ & Sons, a local construction company. He was then able to become a LIUNA Local 152 union member. Briscoe’s advice for other job seekers is, “Do not let your background discourage you. Come to the Job Center because they don’t only offer job search assistance but also support and guidance. They are great people to work with!”

Lake County Workforce Development has identified the following workforce trends for 2022:

Workforce Development is working on several initiatives that will meet the needs of the upcoming year for Lake County’s employers and workforce.

Participate in two virtual events in February to hear dynamic speakers share tips for landing a job when you have a disability. These events are designed to assist anyone affected by a disability or who supports or counsels individuals with a disability.

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Congratulations to Josh Fischer, Lake County Workforce Development Board Member, and President of Fischer Paper Products, on celebrating the company’s 50th anniversary!

Located in Antioch, Illinois, Fischer Paper Products is a family company with more than three generations of experience in manufacturing and supplying high-quality, food-safe paper products—including specialty bags, wraps, liners, napkin rings, and more.