Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI)
The Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) project is funded through ICCB to support qualified participants through the completion of short-term educational opportunities leading to employment. Benefits of the grant include financial and technology assistance, tutoring, academic and employment advising, and more.
Am I Eligible for the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) Project?
To be eligible for participation, individuals must demonstrate financial need and have an interest in and commitment to completing a certificate or program in one of the academic areas listed. Prior to completing the WEI application, please submit an SSC application, apply to FAFSA and obtain a SSC student ID to become a South Suburban College student first.
Eligible participants will receive tuition assistance, access to emergency funds for transportation, childcare, and other emergencies, financial assistance to cover the cost of books and materials, career networking and development opportunities, advisement (personal, academic, and career), tutoring, and other supportive services.
* Eligible applicants must have applied for Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) to apply for Technology Resources.
WEI Success Stories
Read the stories on how some of students have succeeded in the WEI program at SSC.
ARNISHA DAUGHERTY
Arnisha successfully completed the program and she is currently happily employed as a CNA.
DREW HILL
The barber program helped him to perfect his craft, interact more easily with others and clarify his goals. He is very happy.
NATASHA MOORE
Natasha really enjoyed the WEI program that offered short-term certificates and successfully completed all courses within 16-weeks.
LONETTA SMITH
Lonetta attended all student professional development training sessions. She completed her PCT training in Grant Year 3!!!
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
The Workforce Equity Initiative Project at SSC supports 200 participants through the completion of short-term educational opportunities in the following areas: Nursing & Patient Care Technician, Community Healthcare Worker, Certified Production Technician, and Barber Technician. WEI participants will also earn stackable credentials including:
Certified Forklift Operator (National Safety Council)
Average salary: $38,500Earned Certification Including:
- Safety Certification
- Quality and Measurement Certification
- Production Certification
- Maintenance Certification
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Average salary: $48,900
Earned Certification Including:
- Safety Certification
- Quality and Measurement Certification
- Production Certification
- Maintenance Certification
Patient Care Technician (CPCT/A)
Earned Certification Including:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (BNATP)
- Phlebotomist
- EKG Technician
Questions About the WEI Program?
Below is a link to frequently asked questions about the Workforce Equality Initiative (WEI) Program at SSC. If you have questions that weren’t answered, contact Anita Barnett-Clemons, Project Manager, WEI Grant, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2413.