Workforce

Pride, loyalty, strong work ethic are attributes employers need to succeed. Long recognized as the center of the
coal industry, the local workforce has proven it can adapt to change and provide employers what they need.
The current workforce is diversified, supporting the boating and recreation industry, warehousing, manufacturing,
agri-business as well as professional and health care services. The Benton-West City area workforce is here for you.

Workforce Development

Recognizing that the only constant is change, the education community rises to meet the challenge. Local elementary and high school curriculum are structured to meet today's needs as well as tomorrow's opportunities. Courses cover occupational skills, CAD, Cysco Networking, advanced math and sciences as well as college accredited courses.

Check out their websites at:
www.benton47.frnkln.il.us
www.benton103.frnkln.il.us

Rend Lake College

Rend Lake College, our local community college, continues the excellence in education approach with courses in liberal arts and sciences, pre-professional degrees and advanced technology. RLC maintains close ties to the business community and is able to provide training tailored to a company's needs.

RLC is also the host of the area's Small Business Development Center. A joint program between the State of Illinois and the Small Business Administration, the SBDC assists entrepreneurs and small businesses in a variety of areas.

Visit Rend Lake College at: www.rlc.edu

Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University at Carbondale is the state's second largest university and is home to over 25,0000 students and faculty. It offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and is a Carnegie Doctoral Research Accredited university.

It is also home to the Office of Economic and Regional Development and the Southern Illinois Research Park, offering businesses and industries a wide variety of support programs.

Visit Southern Illinois University at: www.siuc.edu.

Additional support is available through our partners:

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
www.illinoisbiz.biz/bus/workforce.html