Workforce Development
Richland Community College provides a variety of professional training and community education opportunities in formats ranging from full-day classes to short-term workshops held in the evening, during the day, or on Saturdays. Richland can provide customized training that fits the specific needs of any business, industry, or individual. Richland’s priority is to serve the needs of the District’s varied population.
Professional Development: Business and corporate training options to update knowledge and theory in order to fulfill job responsibilities, find a new career, or upgrade one’s current position are offered in areas such as occupational safety, workforce training for specific applications, commercial truck driver training, and supervisory management skills.
Personal Development: Opportunities for self-growth and development of new skills are available in non-credit topics ranging from technology to culinary arts.
Shilling Community Education Center: The Center features a 325-seat auditorium, banquet room with seating for 300, conference rooms, and several classrooms available for use. The facility is available for meetings, programs, teleconferences, performances, and other events. Call 217.875.7211, Ext. 6339.
The EnRich Program, funded through a variety of sources, provides opportunities for adults with multiple barriers to employment to develop technical skills and receive essential skills training--satisfying the need to build a skilled workforce in the region's manufacturing and healthcare industries. Various programs and opportunities for training are included in the EnRich Program.
EnRich programs include the following:
Clean Energy Workforce CEJA training at Richland equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for careers in the clean energy sector. This program, aligned with the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), offers hands-on training in HVAC, PV Solar Installation, and other renewable energy technologies, emphasizing sustainable practices and equitable job opportunities. Participants gain technical expertise and practical experience to meet the growing demand for clean energy professionals while contributing to climate action and economic growth.
The Job Readiness Essential Skills Program consists of 13 talents such as communication, teamwork, and dependability that are coupled with Trauma Resilient practices to assist individuals in becoming effective employees. The skills learned in this course will provide the tools for individuals to apply for, obtain, and maintain employment. This course concerns identifying future needs, developing a productive workforce, identifying and examining employees' competencies and skill levels, and determining proficiency and skills gaps.
EnRich Healthcare at Richland provides comprehensive support to participants throughout their healthcare journey, fostering success. The program offers a variety of services, such as tuition assistance, personalized student navigation, Essential Skills training, and access to institutional and community resources. EnRich Healthcare is addressing the critical shortage of health professionals in the area while building a stronger, more resilient workforce.
The Minority Mentor Protégé Program (MMPP) seeks to assist and support low-income and minority adults in the Richland District who are interested in becoming entrepreneurs. It focuses on personalizing the process of entrepreneurship through a curriculum-driven program that builds a cohort and a supportive network. The program builds soft and hard skills, addresses the importance of financial literacy, and attaches mentors to each business concept.