Getting To Work

Tune in for a conversation between  Dianna Schuler, Business Relations Manager for BEST, Inc., and John Spencer, President & General Manager of Starved Rock Media and NCI Works Board Member. Discover how NCI Works functions as an ambassador for area businesses and provides oversight for local agencies that fall under the umbrella of the publicly-funded workforce system. Learn about the composition...

In this episode, you'll hear from 2 COVID-19 response specialists, Cole Horner and Elisabeth Benham, as they discuss the resources that are available to help businesses and municipalities that were impacted by the pandemic. Cole and Elisabeth share some of the promising signs that they are seeing in terms of potential future funding, and how businesses and municipalities can access their services...

Luke Tomsha, Founder and Executive Director of the Perfectly Flawed Foundation, joins the program to discuss his own journey of recovery from addiction and how he came to found his organization. Discover how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the problem of addiction, and what employers need to keep in mind if they have suspect that an employee has an addiction. Luke also reveals why employers...

This episode features an interview with Patrick Basler, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Illinois Credit Union League. Patrick reveals how he became involved in the credit union movement, and the difference between a credit union and a traditional bank. You'll hear stories about how credit unions have helped businesses and individuals weather the disruption created by th...

In this episode you'll hear about how essential businesses are coping and thriving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover tips for ensuring employee health and safety, and the mindset that it takes to succeed in challenging times. 

As we now head into the 7th month of the COVID-19 pandemic, what has changed and what are the current challenges and opportunities? In this episode you'll hear a medical and mental health perspective and update about the pandemic, and what we've learned so far. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of disruption, however, there are still many opportunities available. Dianna Schuler and Joel Torbeck from BEST, Inc. join the program to discuss the resources that are available for job seekers who want to improve their skills, and employers who are looking for talent.   

Kris Noble, Executive Director of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce joins the program to discuss some of the resources that are available for businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Jessica Burrows, LCPC, a mental health counselor with Sinnissippi Centers, joins the program to discuss how to take care of your mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover tips for staying emotionally well and coping with stress. 

In this special episode of Getting To Work, you'll receive updates about services available, including how to access trainings and job classes. Discover employers who are looking to hire at this time, and how to find out more information. 

In this episode, you'll hear from the Opiate G rant Coordinator for BEST, Inc., as she discusses the work that is being done to help individuals impacted by the opiate crisis to find meaningful employment. Discover who is eligible, the challenges and opportunities involved, and the crucial role of businesses and employers. 

In this episode, you'll hear from Joyce Doyle, finance manager for the Coloma Township Park District, as she shares her experience as a participant in the workforce system. Joyce reveals how NCI Works helped her to obtain training that she needed to advance her career. 

In this episode, you'll learn about Horizon House of Illinois Valley and the services that they provide for persons with disabilities. Discover how Horizon House is helping its residents get jobs in the community, and the benefits of employment for both workers and businesses. 

Emily Legel, Executive Director at the Northwest Illinois Economic Development Group, joins the program to discuss the efforts that they are making to boost their regional economy, and what makes Northwest Illinois a great place to work and live. She also shares tips for both job seekers and business owners. 

Dianna Schuler , Business Relations Manager at BEST, Inc., joins the program to discuss the benefits of apprenticeship programs for employers and for regional economic development. She reveals how apprenticeships can be a powerful tool to attract, recruit and retain quality talent, and how employers can learn more about how to start their own apprenticeship program. 

Pam Furlan, Executive Director of BEST, Inc., joins the program to discuss a new grant that is dedicated to helping people in recovery from opioid addiction return to the workforce. Pam reveals the details of the grant, some of the data about the cost of addiction in the workplace, and the stakeholders and partners who will be involved. 

In this episode you'll hear about the truck driver training offered through Illinois Valley Community College. You'll learn about the opportunities that exist, as well as industry trends. Discover the diverse range of people who are becoming truck drivers, and the various types of jobs that are available. 

In this episode, you'll discover what it takes to pursue a career as a certified medical assistant (CMA). Learn about the certification requirements, how to get licensed and the salary range for CMA's. You'll also hear about a new program that can help you become a CMA. 

In this episode, you'll hear from Sara Escatel, Director of Adult Education at Illinois Valley Community College, as she describes the range of services that they offer. She also shares success stories and the benefits of adult education services for job seekers and employers. 

This episode features an interview with Jennifer Scheri, Director of Continuing Education and Business Services at Illinois Valley Community College. Jennifer reveals the biggest challenges that employers face, and how the college serves as a resource for employers and job seekers. She also discusses the types of trainings that are available and how they are upskilling workers.   

Justin Wiggins, owner of Wiggins Computing, LLC, joins the program to discuss how he created a successful computer and IT company at a young age and the experiences that shaped him along the way. He also shares tips for success for anyone thinking about starting their own company. 

In this episode you'll learn about the business services team. Discover how they offer customized candidate recruitments, skill development and training and many other programs that offer solutions to employers and job seekers. 

In this episode, you'll hear from the Tourism Director at the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center, as she discusses the job opportunities available in the tourism and hospitality industry, the qualities that Starved Rock looks for in applicants, and tips for getting started in a career in this industry. 

In this episode you'll hear from 2 managers from Illinois Business Services about how to find a job in the state of Illinois. Discover how to access job opportunities both in the public and private sector. 

This episode features an interview with Gary Kistenfeger as he discusses his journey of becoming a physical therapist, and the challenges and benefits of the profession. Discover tips for breaking into this rewarding career.