Aurora’s CEJA Workforce Development Hub Celebrates First Graduates in Green Energy Fields

A new center in Aurora focused on job training in green energy celebrated its first graduation ceremony. Sixteen students completed a program facilitated by the 548 Foundation at the CEJA Workforce Development Hub, located at 649 S. River St. Funding for these programs comes from the state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act.

During the ceremony, Aurora Mayor John Laesch addressed the graduates, emphasizing their impact: “You guys are a big deal.” The training program equips graduates to enter the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council as first-year apprentices. They receive certifications like the OSHA-30 Construction Certification and the NCCER Core Construction Certification, along with CPR/First Aid Certification.

Each graduate was individually recognized and applauded by friends, family, and classmates. AJ Patton, founder of the 548 Foundation, commended the class, stating, “The marketplace will be better with you in it.” He praised their growth and potential contributions.

Mayor Laesch highlighted continued improvements needed at the hub, such as air-conditioned spaces and expanding partnerships for equipment training. He admired the resilience of the first graduating class in overcoming less-than-ideal conditions.

The facility for the CEJA Workforce Development Hub was previously unused, repurposed from a city water and sewer division building to accommodate state-funded training programs. Laesch shared a personal journey that began in carpentry and transitioned to energy efficiency advocacy, contributing to Aurora’s sustainability efforts.

The mayor’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the hub’s mission to foster green job training and offer living-wage opportunities for residents. Laesch’s involvement has been pivotal in bringing the 548 Foundation to Aurora.

The development hub was listed in the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act as one of 13 statewide locations to promote green job opportunities. After several years, the physical hub opened in January, serving as a launchpad for future green training initiatives.

U.S. Rep. Bill Foster addressed the graduates, noting their journey into sustainable fields isn’t burdened with typical concerns like student loans or artificial intelligence replacing their roles. Foster reassured graduates about their promising career paths in building trades and energy-efficiency improvements.

Before graduation, students received support through weekly stipends from the 548 Foundation. Mayor Laesch discussed future job prospects for graduates, including a potential solar project on city land. Patton promised imminent opportunities for the students.