Our Statement of Equity
Recognizing its economic, societal and organizational benefits, we are committed leaders of workforce diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Advocating and supporting equitable access to career and employment opportunities, we partner with employers in the region to create equity in the workplace and promote a culture of belonging where everyone is seen, heard and valued.
Workforce Services

Career Seekers
Employment opportunities, hiring events, career coaching, employment training, and specific assistance for in and out of school youth.
Employers
Talent acquisition, on-the-job training, customized training, apprenticeships, work experience, upskilling talent.

Labor Market
Most recent unemployment and labor force information, including employment by industry, updated monthly.
News & Testimonials
Participant Alyssa Hill Receives Illinois Workforce Partnership Award
Alyssa is a true testimony to what the WIOA programs offer career seekers.
Absolute Fire Protection Receives Illinois Workforce Partnership Award
The Workforce Connection is proud to work with Absolute Fire Protection to expand opportunities and apprenticeships in the region.
Collaboration At It’s Finest!
Wow…what a great example of collaboration of our region’s local government officials, state and federal governments, as well as many regional organizations, including The Workforce Connection!
Kennedy’s Success Story – Pipefitter Apprentice
Kennedy is a Pipefitter apprentice at Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVACR Local 23 and loves her position! !
Partner Day at The Workforce Connection
The Workforce Connection’s Career Center will be holding our first Partner Day to connect our partners and customers on-site.
Board Member Updates
The Workforce Connection’s Board Member Updates
The Workforce Connection Board
Your Region’s Workforce Board
Serving Boone, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties in Northern Illinois
Please note: The next press release with November 2023 information will be Thursday, December 29, 2023.
Data provided by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, Tom Austin.
For any additional Labor Market information data inquiries, please reach out to The Workforce Connection at businessservices@theworkforceconnection.org .
Calendar
Calendar of Events
Career Assistance Application
Receive Education and/or Training Assistance
Community Impact
View Our Most Recent Annual Report
The Workforce Connection– an Illinois WorkNet Center and partner in the American Job Center network. This program is funded by The Workforce Connection, Inc., Il Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, and the U.S. Department of Labor. The Workforce Connection is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers on this website may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment by calling TTY (800) 526-0844 or 711. Contact the Equal Opportunity Officer at 815-395-6638. This program is subject to the provisions of the “Jobs for Veteran’s Act” Public Law 107-288, which provides priority of services to veterans and spouses of certain veterans. To view additional information related to the U.S. Department of Labor funding of this program, please visit www.theworkforceconnection.org/USDOLstatement