SOUTHWESTERN ILLINOIS - Region 9 WIOA Plan - June 2016 Revised (May 2017) - MAWIB
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SOUTHWESTERN
ILLINOIS
Region 9
WIOA Plan
June 2016
Revised (May 2017)
Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Table of Contents
Chapter 1:Economic and Workforce Analysis – Regional Component
A. Plans must include an analysis of: ………………………………………….. 1
o Economic conditions including existing and emerging in-demand industry
sectors and occupations;
Knowledge and skills needed to meet the employment needs of the employers
in the region including employment needs in-demand industry sectors and
occupations;
o An analysis of the regional workforce, including current labor force
employment and unemployment data, information on labor market trends,
and educational and skill levels of the workforce, including individuals with
barriers to employment…
B. Describe the development and implementation of sector initiatives for
in-demand industry sectors or occupations for the planning region…………….. 23
Chapter 2:Integration of Strategies and Services – Regional Component
A. Provide an analysis of workforce development activities, including
education and training, in the region. This analysis must include the
strengths and weakness of workforce development activities to address
the education and skill needs of the workforce, including individuals with
barriers to employment, and the employment needs of employers………………… 31
B. Describe how transportation and other supportive services are coordinated
within the region……………………………………………………………………. 43
C. Describe the coordination of services with regional economic development
services and providers………………………………………………………………. 46
D. Describe the coordination of administrative cost arrangements, including
the polling of funds for administrative costs as appropriate………………………… 48
Chapter 3: Vision, Goals and Strategies – Regional Component
A. Describe the strategic vision to support state and regional economic growth ……… 49
B. Describe the goals for preparing an educated and skilled workforce
(including youth and individuals with barriers to employment), and goals
relating to the performance accountability measures based on performance
indicators described in 20 CFR 677.155(a)(1)………………………………………. 50
C. Provide a description of the regional and local strategies that will achieve
the vision and goals. This must include a description of the strategies and
services that will be used in the local area…………………………………………. 53
D. Describe the steps that will be taken to support the state goals to align and
integrate education, workforce and economic development ………………………. 56
Attachment 1 - Public Comments…………………………………………………………………… 59
Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
CHAPTER 1: DATA-DRIVEN FOUNDATIONS
This regional component of the plan must demonstrate how the region has collected and
analyzed regional labor market information which must include the local planning requirements.
A. Plans must include an analysis of:
Economic conditions including existing and emerging in-demand industry
sectors and occupations;
Knowledge and skills needed to meet the employment needs of the
employers in the region, including employment needs in in-demand
industry sectors and occupations; and
An analysis of the regional workforce, including current labor force
employment and unemployment data, information on labor market
trends, and educational and skill levels of the workforce, including
individuals with barriers to employment.
Regions should consider the following questions when responding to this
requirement:
1. How were all partners involved in providing, analyzing and agreeing on supply and
demand data and the targeted sectors / industries / occupations skills?
The Illinois State Interagency Team (consisting of state representatives from Adult Ed, Title 1B,
Vocational Rehab and Wagner-Peyser)began a series of regional planning meetings in Effingham
on Dec 9, 10, and 11, 2015 and invited regional core partners and other required partners from each
of the ten economic regions. This regional planning process, facilitated by Maher & Maher, started
with a review of data, establishment of goals, and the coordination of resources. Regional planning
activities began with an extensive data analysis conducted by a state level interagency team. The
data analysis identified growth industry sectors for Southwestern Economic Development Region 9
as well as for the other nine regions in the State. Each regional team received their own regional
data to assist them in identifying and prioritizing target industries in their region. Local Region 9
representatives from all four required core partner agencies (Adult Ed, Title 1B, Vocational Rehab
and Wagner-Peyser) along with partners representing career and technical education were
represented at this meeting and worked together with a Maher & Maher facilitator to complete an
analysis of the data collected.
All core partners involved in the planning process of the Southwestern Region are in agreement on
the priority of sector and industry targets. A follow-up team meeting in January 2016 via
conference calling led by our Maher and Maher facilitator confirmed that the team reached a
consensus during the regional meeting in December, based on the data analysis, as to which
industry and industry sectors would be the primary focus.
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Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Core partners agreeto pursue priorities developed by the regional team. All were present and
participated on the Southwestern Region 9 planning team during the discussions at the Regional
Planning Meeting in Effingham and on several team conference calls thereafter.
2. How is the region changing in terms of demographics, labor supply and occupational
demand?
The Southwestern EDR consists of nine (9) counties: Bond, Calhoun, Clinton, Jersey, Madison,
Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington. The total population of the region has grown from
671,603 in 2000 to 698,088 in 2013, showing an overall increase of 26,485 residents during this 13-
year period. The two largest populated counties, Madison and St. Clair, continue to grow and
consume the majority of the regional population with 8,284 and 10,873 more residents respectively,
and each making up 38% of the population.
2000 2013 Difference from % of EDR
County Population Population 2000-2013 Population
in 2013
Bond 17,633 17,470 -163 3%
Calhoun 5,084 5,059 -25 1%
Clinton 35,535 37,907 + 2,372 5%
Jersey 21,668 22,641 + 973 3%
Madison 258,941 267,225 + 8,284 38%
Monroe 27,619 33,493 + 5,874 5%
Randolph 33,893 32,890 - 1,003 5%
St Clair 256,082 266,955 + 10,873 38%
Washington 15,148 14,448 - 700 2%
Total
Population 671,603 698,088 + 26,485
Source: Population by County, U.S. Census Bureau
The largest cities also fall within the Madison and St. Clair counties area, and support the majority
of the population in the two-county area.
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Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Viewing the chart below, the labor force in the Southwestern EDR has increased over the last
decade or so from 334,149 workers in June 2004 to 339,336 in May 2015, a total increase of 5,187.
365000
Labor force Southwest EDR 9
360000
355000
350000
345000
340000
335000
330000
325000
320000
315000
310000
Jun‐04
Sep‐04
Dec‐04
Mar‐05
Jun‐05
Sep‐05
Dec‐05
Mar‐06
Jun‐06
Sep‐06
Dec‐06
Mar‐07
Jun‐07
Sep‐07
Dec‐07
Mar‐08
Jun‐08
Sep‐08
Dec‐08
Mar‐09
Jun‐09
Sep‐09
Dec‐09
Mar‐10
Jun‐10
Sep‐10
Dec‐10
Mar‐11
Jun‐11
Sep‐11
Dec‐11
Mar‐12
Jun‐12
Sep‐12
Dec‐12
Mar‐13
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Sep‐13
Dec‐13
Mar‐14
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Sep‐14
Dec‐14
Mar‐15
Labor force Southwest EDR 9
Source: Local Area Unemployment Statistics: Illinois Department of Employment Security
As can be concluded from the two commuter tables below, 76% of the workforce in the
Southwestern Economic Development Region live and work in the same county in which they
reside. Of the residents in EDR 9 who work outside of the state of Illinois, 30% commute to
Missouri for employment. 7% of the workforce in EDR 9 travel from Missouri to work. Therefore,
it is safe to conclude that the worker demand on the Illinois side has remained steady or has shown
at least some increase.
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Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
COMMUTE COMMUTE
LIVE
TOTAL AND TO OTHER OUT OF STATE
IL
LIVE IN WORK IN COUNTY TOTAL IN IA KY MO WI OTHER
Bond 7,508 4,239 2,713 556 6 0 0 453 18 79
Calhoun 2,154 904 869 381 0 0 0 369 0 12
Clinton 18,547 8,802 7,665 2,080 22 27 0 1,990 0 41
Jersey 10,062 4,138 4,254 1,670 0 16 0 1,634 0 20
Madison 122,193 76,006 15,243 30,944 64 10 14 30,266 18 572
Monroe 16,184 5,317 3,506 7,361 21 0 5 7,302 22 11
Randolph 13,675 9,544 2,727 1,404 0 0 0 1,373 0 31
St. Clair 119,278 76,525 12,224 30,529 39 0 28 29,687 15 760
Washington 7,304 4,196 2,772 336 10 0 19 283 1 23
EDR 316,905 189,671 51,973 75,261 162 53 66 73,357 74 1,549
COMMUTE COMMUTE FROM OUT OF STATE
TOTAL WORK FROM
AND OTHER
WORK LIVE IN IL TOTAL IN IA KY MO WI OTHER
IN COUNTY
Bond 5,843 4,239 1,558 46 6 11 0 17 0 12
Calhoun 1,055 904 148 3 0 0 0 0 3 0
Clinton 12,155 8,802 3,197 156 9 0 0 61 30 56
Jersey 5,949 4,138 1,625 186 0 0 0 116 0 70
Madison 105,602 76,006 21,638 7,958 15 0 26 7,513 20 384
Monroe 8,553 5,317 2,270 966 0 0 0 937 0 29
Randolph 14,375 9,544 4,366 465 26 0 6 366 3 64
St. Clair 106,686 76,525 21,148 9,013 81 0 7 8,599 28 298
Washington 7,663 4,196 3,253 214 16 17 0 89 24 68
EDR 267,881 189,671 59,203 19,007 153 28 39 17,698 108 981
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2009-2013 American Community Survey
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Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
A final consideration is the analysis of employment projections ahead to the year 2020. The chart
below demonstrates that occupational demand is predicted to rise in EDR 9 for the majority of
industries, including manufacturing, and decline for only two industries; government and
agriculture/natural resources/mining. Occupations in the manufacturing industry sector show
projected demand. Retention efforts continue to protect the region’s historic manufacturing identity
and changes in the manufacturing sector include more highly technical occupations. (Please refer to
Question 5 for more details.)
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security-Employment Projections
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Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
3. What are the policy and service implications of the current and projected Labor Market
Information?
The policies and services in Region 9 align well with the intention of WIOA including job search
assistance, work based learning opportunities, on the job training and education, work experience
for youth and adults, incumbent worker training. There has been a focus on youth recruitment
attainment. The new WIOA requirement of 75% out of school youth will be the most difficult
youth to engage. All agencies participate and/or host job fairs to bring customer, youth and
employers together. Agencies also work with formerly incarcerated individuals to assist with
training, obtaining employment and transitioning back into the work force. Partner agencies are
prioritizing the coordination of services among agencies. Some examples are:
Community colleges are adding recruitment efforts, career awareness, and transition
activities within the classroom and disability transition services. In addition, they continue
bridge programming and ICAPS programming, including transition and job skills in the
classroom and for the work force.
GED and Adult Education services are offered for students. The Perkins grant provides
direct and transition support students for eligible student in career programs.
Vocational rehabilitation is continuing to focus on employment opportunities that include on
the job training and education, work experience and training services for adults and youth.
Transition services and work experience services are provided to youth while in, and when
leaving, school.
Illinois Department of Employment Security is continuing the Hiring the Future Program,
which works with in school and out of school youth. They will work with WIOA partners
for referral and services.
Regional Offices of Education works with agencies to provide work-based learning, career
and transition fairs, job shadowing and transition services to students.
Community Services Block Grant collaborates with the Workforce Innovation Opportunity
Act Agencies to cover tuition costs while WIOA covers supportive services. In addition,
they also offer scholarships.
East St. Louis and Alton each have a Youth Build program that serves the surrounding
communities.
Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) publishes industry and occupational
projections, both long and short term, along with other useful data on the Virtual Labor
Market Information (VLMI) system and the IDES website. Occupational wage data,
demographic characteristics of the Illinois labor force and other employment statistics serve
to inform policy makers and service providers on local economic trends and assist them in
the process of data-based decision making to serve the Illinois residents, especially the
targeted populations in the region. The Illinois Career Information System (CIS) includes an
online portfolio, career assessments, comprehensive information on careers, schools and
educational programs, budgeting tools, as well as a resume creator and job search tips. The
VLMI assists the resume and cover letter process with detailed information on businesses,
including contact information, and maps to the locations.
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Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
4. What special populations exist in the region, what is their magnitude, and what are the
policy and service implications to meet the needs of these individuals?
Some of the special populations present in the Southwestern Region are reflected in the table below.
Table is provided by the Illinois Department of Commerce, Office of Employment & Training.
There are 100,003 people below poverty level. There are 183,347 people receiving public
assistance with 103,331 of those being adults. An average of 8,131 individuals receives TANF
each month and 111,005 receive SNAP benefits each month. All partners are working hard to
tackle the overwhelming challenges that poverty brings to the region.
WIOA Title 1A provides work-based learning through paid work experience, assistance with job
search and resume writing, and referrals to other resources.
Community Colleges provide education and help with financial assistance through PELL, MAP,
Perkins support and other need-based scholarships, as well as adult education for GED students
including orientation, outreach and instruction.
7
Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
DRS provides resources to facilities and agencies that provide assistance for people living in
poverty. Resources include but are not limited to referrals to homeless shelters, food pantries, crisis
centers, warming/cooling centers, etc.
IDES provides the Illinois Career Information System to customers at job centers and area
community colleges for students enrolled in adult basic education. Within the CIS is the Career
Plan, which is a self-directed planning guide for adults facing barriers. Career Plan is structured to
address issues before they occur, with self-generated tools on how to plan, pay for and persevere
when difficulties arise, including preparing for the step involved in achieving goals. Supportive
career specialists and college instructors provide encouragement and assist with learning how to use
the system independently. IDES offers training and administrative support on the Career
Information System through online web based sessions tailored to customer needs.
There are 83,594 people with disabilities and 54,122 are adults. In 2015, DRS has served 800
individuals over age 25 and 774 individuals under 25. All partners work with people with
disabilities.
WIOA Title 1A provides adult training programs, work-based learning thru paid work experience,
and on-the-job training. In addition, Career Centers help with job search, resume assistance, and
makes referrals to other resources as needed. The MCETD contracts with one youth provider that
offers two youth programs, one in Madison County and one in Bond-MERS Goodwill, and they
specialize in serving young people with disabilities.
DRS provides assistance in the area of independent living with the focus on prevention of
institutionalized placement. Adults are empowered to live independently with community
involvement. In addition, DRS provides assistance for people with disabilities through vocational
rehabilitation, continuing to focus on employment opportunities that include on the job training and
education, work experience and training service. Transition services and work experience services
are provided to youth while in, and when leaving, school.
Community Colleges through regular and adult education programming provide accommodations
for students who disclose. L&C has a unique focus on students with disabilities through
programming designed specifically to transition students with disabilities to college and/or work.
IDES provides training and administrative support to vocational rehabilitation counselors who
utilize the Career Information System through the partnership with Illinois Department of Human
Services Department of Rehabilitative Services. Additionally, the Help Wanted On-Line monthly
reports identify which employers are hiring and which occupational groups are most in demand
based on the online job ads in all ten economic development regions throughout the state of Illinois.
The Illinois Job Link labor exchange connects jobseekers with employers looking for employees.
IDES refers individuals to supportive services depending on their needs and barriers to
employment.IDES also provides job readiness workshops on resumes, job search, application
methods, interview techniques and other topics and refers individuals to supportive services
depending on their needs and barriers to employment.
There were 1,148 formerly incarcerated adults in the region as of June 2014.
8Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
DRS reaches out specifically to provide education/training to assist them to reenter the workforce
with companies that accommodate this population.
Winning Job Opportunitiesis a guide for formerly incarcerated citizens returning to the workforce
http://www.ides.illinois.gov/IDES%20Forms%20and%20Publications/RESPWinningJobOpportunit
ies.pdf available on the IDES website The Re-entry Employment Service Program (RESP) offers
several tools, including a set of job preparation handouts, an assessment form and two PowerPoint
presentations for job seekers and employers. IDES also provides outreach at correctional facilities,
both state and federal, for the general population and specifically for veterans; information to adult
parolees; events specifically for the juvenile populations; information to employers on state and
federal tax programs; job readiness workshops and assistance in their job search.
There are 24,810 individuals over the age of five who speak a language other than English in
their homes. While all partners serve this population when appropriate, most send these learners to
community colleges’ adult education programs that provide specific courses for English Language
Acquisition and civics education. The colleges also house literacy programs that provide trained
volunteer tutors to support this population. It is important to note that due to the State’s Budget
Impasse, Kaskaskia’s adult education (and ELA) program will be suspended, effective 2/29/16.
In addition, IDES, MCETD and St Clair IGD provide interpreter service both language and sign
when necessary.
Much of the Illinois Career Information System converts to Spanish with one click. Parents may
participate in preparing their young children to investigate careers with the CIS Junior version,
appropriate for fifth through eighth grade students. There is a version for all of our customers,
including high school and college students as well as adults who are developing plans to improve
their future while working. The Virtual Labor Market Information is especially helpful when adults
begin to explore the options available to them in their local area, including locating businesses,
contact information, and maps to their locations.
In 2015, EDR 9 included a monthly average of 19,820 unemployed individuals.
WIOA Title I provides the framework for a unique workforce preparation and employment system
designed to meet both the needs of the job seeker and those that wish to further their careers. A key
component of the Act is its focus on meeting the needs of local businesses for skilled workers.
Utilizing testing, assessments and case management, specialist guide unemployed and under
employed WIOA customers to the level of assistance required for self-sustainability. Resources
available include resume writing assistance, interview technique, job search and where appropriate
training. All services are designed to facilitate a highly skilled highly motivated workforce for area
employers. Employers can take advantage of recruitment, screening and labor market information
to match the skill set of a prospect to job requirements. Additionally, On the Job Training and
Incumbent Worker Training can strengthen and advance an employer’s existing workforce often
times creating a demand for additional employees.
9Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
DRS will provide vocational training and/or education to assist these individuals with disabilities
who want to work. Assistance includes help to make informed decisions and access to full
community participation through employment, education, and independent living options.
Community Colleges provide low-cost, high-quality educational options for unemployed
individuals in the region. In addition, when customers need basic skills to help with employment,
the colleges provide adult basic education, tutoring and GED preparation.
IDES ensures that eligible individuals receive the unemployment insurance benefits to which they
are entitled. Efficiently and effectively administering benefits prevents the negative effects of
economic downturns on businesses and the unemployed. IDES protects taxpayers against waste,
fraud and abuse by ensuring the integrity of wage reports and unemployment claims. They provide
workshops on job readiness including resumes, job search, application methods, interview
techniques and other topics. They also refer individuals to supportive services depending on their
needs and barriers to employment.
The Jobseeker version of the Career Information System is available at job centers and includes
career plan and portfolio for determining their Holland type preferences and beginning with their
interests to learn how to achieve career goals. Virtual Labor Market Information helps jobseekers
locate employers by industry including convenient information about the business’ size, contact
information, and maps to the locations.
There are 105,880 individuals over age 65 in the region. All partners will service these
individuals through already existing services.
WIOA Title I refers eligible seniors to AARP’s work program.
DRS will accept referrals on disabled individuals up to age 59 in the Home Services program,
which is designed to care for them in their homes instead of using nursing homes as the only option.
Personal assistants are paid through the state of Illinois to carry out the task as caregiver when the
individual is deemed qualified per the use of an assessment tool. Any referral beyond the age of 60
will be referred to the Dept. of Aging. DRS will provide the contact information if the individual
chooses that route. In addition, DRS will provide older individuals who want to work assistance
with employment through help in job searches, work experience, on the job training and education,
and training services.
IDES partners with AARP’s work program providing an acceptable work location for seniors. They
refer individuals to the program for training and other benefits. IDES provides job readiness
workshops on resumes, job search, application methods, interview techniques and other topics.
They also refer individuals to supportive services depending on their needs and barriers to
employment.
10Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
VETERANS Another special population to consider
is our military veterans. As shown in the pie graph to
the left, 9.7% of the region consists of veterans. All
partners in the region are committed and give priority
to providing quality services to their active service
members and veterans.
Region 9 WIOA Title I partners (LWIAs 22 & 24)
engage with the Airman and Family Readiness Center
at Scott Airforce Base to work with those who are
transitioning from active military and their families,
providing them with employment and training
services as well as referring them to other agencies within their community for additional
assistance.
Community colleges each have specific staff members who serve as a one stop shop for veteran
students and active military, advising students on everything from course schedules and financial
assistance to military educational benefits options to allow for training and advancement during
active services periods and after and apply for their Federal and State Veteran Educational benefits.
They offer student veterans opportunities for employment by participating in the VA Work Study
program. Student veterans also have access to Career Services and participate in multiple career and
college fairs targeted toward the veteran population.
The Dept. of Veterans Affairs selected SWIC for the VetSuccess on Campus. Through the VSOC
program, the VA places experienced vocational rehabilitation counselors on selected college
campuses to assist the growing number of service members, veterans and dependents attending
school under the Post-9/11 GI Bill and other VA educational programs. The VSOC counselors are
trained to provide academic and vocational guidance to veterans and help connect them to other VA
benefits, including health care and mental health services. The VSOC counselors maintain close
relationships with local VA Vet Centers and VA medical facilities, referring service members,
veterans and dependents as needed and providing assistance in applying for VA medical and
nonmedical benefits. VetSuccess on Campus services are available to service members and veterans
eligible for any of VA’s educational programs, including the Post 9/11 GI Bill and Montgomery GI
Bill, as well as VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program. VSOC counselors can
also assist dependents of Veterans who are receiving VA education benefits, including eligible
spouses attending school through the Post 9/11 GI Bill and eligible children. In addition, VA’s
Education and Career Counseling Program offers a great opportunity for transitioning service
members and veterans to get personalized counseling and support to guide their career paths, ensure
most effective use of their VA benefits and help them achieve their goals.
Assisting veterans in finding gainful employment is a top priority at IDES. Our staff provides
veterans with priority of service for employment services (does not apply to unemployment
insurance). In addition, we have nearly 40 offices located throughout Illinois with Employment
Specialists available to provide a full array of services to assist veterans. The Disabled Veterans
Outreach Program Specialist (DVOP) works with veterans with barriers to employment and refers
them to the Local Veterans Employment Representative (LVER) for job development when they
11Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
are job ready. IDES refers veterans to various veteran organizations and other agencies depending
on their needs.
Finally, at risk youth, both in school and out of school, are populations that are important to
include in this discussion. In the Illinois State WIOA Unified Plan it is stated, “184,000 youth
ages 18-24, are considered disconnected, meaning they are not attending school and are not
working. This number is approximately 15% of the 18-24 population statewide. Meanwhile,
unemployment among this group stands at 22.1%, according to USBLS data, approximately 5 times
that of the state as a whole.”
Youth (in school). Madison High School’s youth program and Madison County E-Learning
program, in some situations, serve the in-school at risk youth population. Through these programs,
the youth learn basic academic learning skills, soft skills, career planning, work skills thru paid
work experience opportunities, and earn their high school diploma. IDES offers employment
assistance, job readiness and career development services (entitled the Career Information Systems-
CIS as well as the Virtual Labor Market Information Tool- VLMI) to in-school youth. IDES offers
all Illinois residents a variety of comprehensive, free-of-charge career exploration tools and
websites to help learn about the world of work, choose a career path and explore education and
training. They also facilitates workshops with students and employers to assist youth with their
application and interview skills.
STEP is the Secondary Transition Experience Program, which DRS uses to service eight Madison
County High Schools. The program services the students with disabilities as a training/placement
program that prepares the students for transition to employment and optimum community
participation during and after high school.The Belleville DRS office also has the STEP program in
12 area high schools. These high schools also have transition services. In addition, transition
services are available in six additional high schools in our area. DRS works with these students in
high school and continues to work with them through college or employment after school.
Community Colleges through adult education programming do not serve in school youth.
However, they do offer dual credit for eligible students dually enrolled in high school and
community college.
Youth (out of school).Several WIOA youth programs, MERS Youth Programs in Madison and
Bond Counties, the Madison County E-Learning program and the 1Y training programs for older
youth, if eligible, all serve the out-of-school youth population.
DRS would provide resources and information to these individuals if they were to seek help. If they
had a disability, DRS would refer them to the local CIL (Center for Independent Living), which is
called IMPACT, for assistance from their Youth Program. DRS is continuing to focus on
employment opportunities that include on the job training and education, work experience and
training service.
12Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Community colleges through college transition programs target this age group with uniquepathways
to college, such as ICAPS and Bridge programs. These programs are not limited to these age
groups but are trying to target them. In addition, L&C is targeting these young people (16-24) with
Building Futures YouthBuild, a comprehensive education, training, and leadership development
effort that incorporates basic building skills and community service to transition young people to
college and/or work.
SWIC serves out-of-school youth in St. Clair, Randolph, and Madison County through two special
programs: (1) Early School Leaver Transition Program (ESLTP), serving youth ages 16 to 21 years
old from St. Clair and Madison counties that have dropped out of high school by providing
participants instruction and guidance towards earning an Illinois High School Equivalency
Certificate, job skills training, opportunities for school-based and work-based learning experiences
related to a career choice, and assistance with transition into post-secondary education and/or
employment; (2) Youth Empowerment Support Services Program (YESS), which provides
ABE/ASE instruction, guidance/counseling, mentoring, tutoring, intensive case management, paid
work experience, study skills training, work readiness training, and job assistance to eligible youth
not attending high school between the ages of 16 and 24 living in St. Clair and Randolph counties.
Both SWIC and L&C provide adult basic education, High School Equivalency Test preparation and
English Language Acquisition courses to this population.
IDES offers the Hire the Future program to youth ages 16-24 with employment assistance, job
readiness and career development services. Reality Check is a fun, interactive budgeting tool that
engages young people and provides a context to wages and careers. Career assessments,
information on colleges, and portfolios to save results and develop plans for college or
apprenticeship opportunities are accessed through the Career Information System. Summer Job
Central http://www.ides.illinois.gov/IDES%20Forms%20and%20Publications/sjc2016.pdf offers
information to youth seeking summer employment opportunities.
13Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
5.What sectors / industries / occupations / skills are in demand and targets of opportunity?
The top three industries in demand and targets of opportunity in Region 9 are Manufacturing;
Transportation, Distribution and Logistics; and Health Care.
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security
14Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security
a. What sectors / industries / occupations have favorable location quotients?
Based on data on the previous three tables, the sectors/industries/occupations with the most
favorable location quotients are:
MANUFACTURING:
Food Manufacturing (1.2) Leading
Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing (4.78) Leading
Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing (1.08) Leading
Primary Metal Manufacturing (7.38) Leading
Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing (1.23) Leading
Electrical Equipment, appliance, and Component Manufacturing (1.22) Maturing
Miscellaneous Manufacturing (.42) Emerging
TRANSPORTATION, DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS
Truck Transportation (1.60) Leading
Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation (1.55) Leading
Support Activities for Transportation (1.95) Leading
Warehousing and Storage (2.07) Leading
HEALTHCARE
Nursing and Residential Care Facilities (1.08) Leading
Social Assistance (1.07) Leading
15Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
b. What sectors / industries / occupations have favorable demand projections
based on growth?
Manufacturing occupations with favorable projected demand due to growth
Projected long term employment 2012‐2022
Projected long term employment 2012-2022
Standard Occupational Classification Annual Compound Growth
00-0000 Total, All Occupations 0.59
51-4011 Computer-Controlled Mach Tool Operators 1.92
51-4012 Numerical Tool/Process Control Programmers 3.17
51-4041 Machinists 0.95
51-4062 Patternmakers, Metal & Plastic 1.63
51-4122 Welding/Soldering Mach Setters/Operators 2.20
Projected long term employment 2012-2022
Standard Occupational Classification Annual Compound Growth
00-0000 Total, All Occupations 0.59
51-4011 Computer-Controlled Mach Tool Operators 1.92
51-4012 Numerical Tool/Process Control Programmers 3.17
51-4041 Machinists 0.95
51-4062 Patternmakers, Metal & Plastic 1.63
51-4122 Welding/Soldering Mach Setters/Operators 2.20
16Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Annual Compound
Standard Occupational Classification Growth
00‐0000 Total, All Occupations 0.59
53‐1000 Supervisors, Trans/Material Moving Workers 1.10
53‐1021 1st‐LineSpvrs/Mgrs Labors/Material Movers 0.72
53‐3022 Bus Drivers, School 1.23
53‐3032 Truck Drivers, Heavy & Tractor‐Trailer 1.44
53‐7000 Material Moving Workers 0.72
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics occupations with favorable projected demand due
togrowth
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security
Health Care occupations with favorable projected demand due to growth. (Source is IDES)
Projected long term employment 2012-2022
Standard Occupational Classification Annual Compound Growth
00-
0000 Total, All Occupations 0.59
29-
1141 Registered Nurses 1.13
29-
1151 Nurse Anesthetists 2.19
29-
1161 Nurse Midwives 2.38
29-
1171 Nurse Practitioners 2.04
29-
1181 Audiologists 2.93
29-
2000 Health Technologists & Technicians 1.16
29-
2012 Medical & Clinical Lab Technicians 1.69
29-
2021 Dental Hygienists 0.59
17Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
29-
2031 Cardiovascular Technologists & Techs 1.82
29-
2032 Diagnostic Medical Sonographers 3.31
29-
2055 Surgical Technologists 1.69
29-
2056 Veterinary Technologists & Technicians 1.67
29-
2057 Ophthalmic Medical Technicians 2.88
29-
2061 Licensed Practical & Vocational Nurses 1.44
29-
2071 Medical Records/Health Information Techs 1.31
29-
9091 Athletic Trainers 2.10
31-
1011 Home Health Aides 3.06
31-
1014 Nursing Assistants 0.90
31-
2011 Occupational Therapist Assistants 3.18
31-
2012 Occupational Therapist Aides 3.03
31-
2021 Physical Therapist Assistants 2.98
31-
2022 Physical Therapist Aides 2.94
31-
9092 Medical Assistants 2.07
31-
9097 Phlebotomists 1.98
18Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
19Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Information Technology occupations with favorable projected demand due to growth
Projected long term employment 2012‐2022
Annual Compound
Standard Occupational Classification Growth
00-0000 Total, All Occupations 0.59
15-1100 Computer Occupations 1.38
15-1111 Computer/Information Research Scientists 1.59
15-1121 Computer Systems Analysts 1.87
15-1122 Information Security Analysts 3.13
15-1131 Computer Programmers 0.77
15-1132 Software Developers, Applications 2.38
15-1133 Software Developers, Systems Software 1.99
15-1134 Web Developers 2.03
15-1141 Database Administrators 0.95
15-1142 Network & Computer Sys. Administrators 0.80
15-1143 Computer Network Architects 1.57
15-1151 Computer User Support Specialists 1.34
15-1152 Computer Network Support Specialists 0.92
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security
20Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
c. What sectors / industries / occupations have favorable demand projections based on
replacements?
Occupational projections for LWIAs 22 &24: Average annual job openings due to replacements
are reflected in the table below. (Source is IDES)
d. What sectors / industries / occupations are considered mature but still important to
theregional economy?
There is one sector/industry/occupation that is considered mature but still important to the
regional economy, and it appears on the Manufacturing Table for the Southwestern Region:
MANUFACTURING:
Electrical Equipment, appliance, and Component Manufacturing (1.22)Maturing
e. What sectors / industries / occupations are considered emerging in the regional
economy?
According to the data, the sectors/industries/occupations considered emerging in the
regional economy are:
MANUFACTURING:
Wood Product Manufacturing (.51) Emerging
Transportation Equipment Manufacturing (.48) Emerging
f. What geographic factors impact the regional economy?
Average Annual Job Openings Annual
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) due to Compound
Code Title Growth Replacements Total Growth
29-0000 Healthcare Practitioners & Technical Occupations 57 119 176 0.93
31-0000 Healthcare Support Occupations 55 61 116 1.59
29-0000 Healthcare Practitioners & Technical Occupations 139 171 310 1.54
31-0000 Healthcare Support Occupations 80 86 166 1.64
437 768
51-0000 Production Occupations 39 176 215 0.25
51-0000 Production Occupations 26 175 201 0.07
351 416
53-0000 Transportation & Material Moving Occupations 99 212 311 1.02
53-0000 Transportation & Material Moving Occupations 94 252 346 0.81
464 657
The two geographic factors that most impact the regional economy are the central mid-west
location with close proximity to St. Louis City, St Louis County and the St. Louis Lambert
21Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Airport, and the excellent transportation infrastructure. Runways, railroads, several
interstates and river transportation provide unique positioning for moving goods
inexpensively (barge, rail, interstate highway, and air).
1) Are people, service providers and industries evenly distributed throughout the
region or clumped together?
In Southwestern Region 9, people, service providers and industries are distributed
throughout the region but not evenly. There is a heavier distribution or clumping in the
larger populated urban areas of the region; mainly in Madison and St. Clair Counties. As
you can determine by reviewing the St. Louis East-West Gateway Council’s Employment
Density Map dated December 2015, there is also a very high concentration/clumping just
across the Mississippi River in St. Louis City and County that logically accounts for the
main reason that the counties with the easiest and closest access to St. Louis, Madison and
St. Clair Counties, are host to the majority of economic activity in the region.
22Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
2) Are there inherent geographic advantages or disadvantages in the region?
During our regional team discussions at the December 9,2015 Regional Meeting in
Effingham, the team brainstormed and came up with the following geographic
strengths/opportunities and weaknesses/threats for Region 9:
Regional Strengths/Opportunities
Multi-modal transportation/logistics assets: rails, rivers, roads, runways, etc. as
mentioned earlier
Location in center of country
Mass transit assets
Connections with St. Louis region for regional planning; building off of existing
manufacturing partnership
Mississippi River Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics Consortium (MRTDL)
TAACCCT grant: Lewis and Clark is lead, with 9 colleges total participating;
Connect and leverage
Regional Weaknesses/Threats
Economic region is divided by a river
State-level impediments to working across state lines
Abject/long-term poverty along river, in East St. Louis in particular
6. What are the targeted industries and occupations and how were they determined using
primary and secondary supply and demand data?
The regional team discussed the data provided by the Illinois Department of Employment Security
and ultimately selected Manufacturing for its initial target cluster. The manufacturing sector is in
demand and provides targets of opportunity in the Southwest Economic Development Region 9.
In addition, it is important to mention here that another regional partnership exists with our
workforce development offices just across the Mississippi River in Missouri. Six (6) Workforce
Areas: LWIA 22 and LWIA 24 in Southwestern Illinois; St. Louis City (SLATE); St. Louis County;
St. Charles County and Jefferson County in Eastern-Central Missouri formed a regional partnership
more than 15 years ago under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). This group is currently
collaborating with the regional effort spearheaded by the St. Louis Partnership (an Economic
Development agency) to address the needs of Advanced Manufacturing.
23Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
B. Describe the development and implementation of sector initiatives for in-
demand industry sectors or occupations for the planning region.
Regions should consider the following questions when responding to this
requirement:
1. What sectors / industries / occupations / skills are the regional priorities and how was this
determined?(This question refers to how the targeted sectors / industries were ranked to
establish a priority. Explain how the status of growing, maturing and emerging was factored into
the ranking.)
After reviewing the regional economic data supplied to us at the State sponsored regional meeting
in December, we first narrowed our focus down to the top three sectors, Manufacturing,
Transportation/Logistics, and Health Care. Our region is currently working on several economic
activities based on manufacturing and related industries/occupations, and participating in St. Louis
and Eastern Missouri’s regional planning efforts in Advanced Manufacturing. Because much work
and collaborating is already underway, and because there are more ideas in the development
process, the regional team decided unanimously to continue our efforts and focus on the
Manufacturing sector.
2. What sector-based partnerships exist in the region? If any exist, are they business-led and
what is their role in planning?
Manufacture Your Future & Craft Your Future
LWIAs 22 & 24 are collaborating on a campaign to develop interest in careers in manufacturing
and the trades. This has taken form in the campaigns of “Craft Your Future” and “Manufacture
Your Future”. A long-term strategy is elevating the perception of these career tracks, and showing
the promising future of the occupations. By incorporating the way the STEM Programs also prepare
students for these jobs is a benefit as well. As this campaign moves forward there are already
preliminary talks on bring this to the entire region, thus addressing the regional need for skilled
labor moving forward.
Tech Hire Grant
Recently Illinois and Missouri WIBs have been working together to assist two (2) different entities
to prepare a proposal in response to a solicitation by US DOL to address the need for the IT
workforce. Funding from the H-1B visas will fund several training designs across the nation, and
we in the region hope to be one of those to receive the “Tech Hire Grant”.
24Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
South Central Illinois Growth Alliance (SCIGA)
Kaskaskia acts as the primary engine and meeting center for the South Central Illinois Growth
Alliance (SCIGA). SCIGA is a five-county not-for-profit corporation offering tremendous
opportunities for business and individuals. It is committed to establishing, promoting, maintaining
and continually developing financial, industrial, agricultural, and tourism initiatives as well as other
regional activities for the development, attraction, and retention of business, industries and
commerce within the region. The counties of Bond, Clinton, Fayette, Marion and Washington offer
what companies are searching for: fully developed locations, a quality workforce, exceptional
educational and workforce training initiatives and facilities, and outstanding medical services as
well as numerous recreational opportunities.
Community College Advisory Committees
The community colleges in the region, Lewis & Clark College, Southwestern Illinois College and
Kaskaskia College, allinclude business representatives on their advisory committee for each career
program.
3. What other public-private partnerships exist in the region that could support sector
strategies and what is their role in planning?
Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois
The Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois is a not-for-profit member-based economic
development corporation representing Southwestern Illinois, primarily Madison and St. Clair
counties. The Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois works to unite the region for economic
growth through its coalition of 200 board members who are leaders in business, industry, labor,
education, and government. These effective partnerships serve as a driving force behind successful
economic development efforts throughout the Metro East Region.
The Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois develops the regional economic development agenda.
Since 1983, the organization has served as one voice, strengthening public/private partnerships
throughout Southwestern Illinois to lay the foundation for job growth and retention.
The Leadership Council fosters relationships and partnerships on both sides of the river,
recognizing that our efforts have an impact that affects not just Southwestern Illinois, but also the
entire St. Louis Region.
The mission of the Leadership Council is to attract and retain jobs, stimulate capital investment, and
promote the economic development of Southwestern Illinois by building effective partnerships with
leaders in business, industry, government, education and labor.
25Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Standing committees and specially convened task forces work on critical initiatives for our region.
Standing committees include:
The Labor-Management Committee, which exists to serve employers and unions in Southwestern
Illinois by working to improve the labor-management image in the area;
The Military Affairs Committee, which was a key part of the team that fought hard to transform and
retain Scott Air Force Base in the 1995 and 2005 rounds of Military Base Realignment and Closure
(BRAC). Efforts of this committee are continued today to maintain and enhance this vital economic
asset and largest employer in our community; and
The Transportation/Infrastructure Committee, which works closely with the Illinois Department of
Transportation in the support of regional transportation issues, such as the extension of I-255,
public transit, the region’s three airports, and most recently, the new Mississippi River Bridge.
Workforce Innovation Boards
Both WIBs in the regionare led by business representation and support sector strategy work in the
region.
Madison-Bond WIB-The purpose of the Madison-Bond Workforce Innovation Board is to ensure
the integration of services to prepare individuals to meet the needs of businesses and industry. The
Board's mission is to take a leadership role in advocating, planning, evaluating, and developing
local workforce resources in order to enable individuals and businesses to reach their full potential
in a changing global marketplace. The Madison–Bond WIB shall, in conjunction with the Madison
County Employment and Training Department, its administrative entity, use available funding in
ways that will most effectively satisfy the labor demand needs of the residents and business
community of Madison-Bond Counties and enhance the economic well-being of the community.
Mid America WIB (MAWIB) -MAWIB is a collaboration of business, economic development,
education, human resources, community and labor leaders seeking to improve Southwestern
Illinois. They do this in many ways that include:
Serving as a point of contact for business, industry and the public sector to communicate
their workforce needs.
Promoting strategies to encourage life-long learning and improve workplace skills.
Assisting in the development of new training programs to benefit the region’s workforce.
Conducting planning, oversight, and evaluation of local workforce development programs,
including the local One Stop Delivery System.
Coordinating efforts and activities with economic development to promote the region’s
availability of qualified workers and promote coordination among business and the public
sector.
26Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Southwestern Illinois Development Authority (SWIDA)
SWIDA is Southwestern Illinois’ hands-on regional economic development authority. Through its
partnerships with parties in the public and private sectors, the organization works to jumpstart
investments in St. Louis’ Metro East region, helping to take plans off the drawing board and turn
them into bricks and mortar. Operating as a special-purpose, municipal corporation and local
government unit, the Southwestern Illinois Development Authority (SWIDA) was created by the
Illinois state legislature in 1987 to promote, encourage and facilitate economic development in the
Southwestern Illinois counties of Bond, Clinton, Madison and St. Clair.
Since its inception, nearly 30 years ago, SWIDA’s work to jumpstart investments in the four-county
region has transformed the landscape, helped to create and retain jobs and fueled economic growth
in the Metro East. SWIDA receives no tax dollars, but operates solely on the revenue it earns for the
services it provides.
The organization achieves results through a variety of channels including the sale of taxable and
tax-exempt bonds; alternative financing services such as loans for land acquisition, gap financing
and micro loans; real estate development services and technical development assistance. The
agency has also supported a range of projects that have contributed to the revitalization of East St.
Louis.
4. What neutral conveners with the capacity to help establish sector partnerships exist in the
region and what is their role in planning?
Vision 20/20 Group
Vision 2020 Southwestern Illinois was initiated in May 2009 by the Leadership Council
Southwestern Illinois in concert with the Madison-Bond and Mid America workforce investment
boards, county board chairs and regional leaders across a seven-county area.
It was conceived as an opportunity for Southwestern Illinois to accomplish three key objectives:
•Understand and define the region’s economy;
•Determine the economic opportunities and priorities for the region, and
•Identify strategies for achieving those priorities in the next 10 years.
To achieve its objectives, Vision 2020 sought input from hundreds of public and private
stakeholders from throughout the broader Southwestern Illinois region via one-on-one interviews,
surveys and focus groups. The seven Illinois counties represented include Bond, Clinton, Madison,
Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington. The process also included the collection, review and
comparison of data from similar areas throughout the Midwest, and interviews with representatives
from those areas.
Here are the conclusions:
The comparative analysis showed Southwestern Illinois is not significantly different from
other peer regions located within the Midwest.
27Southwest Region 9 WIOA Plan June 2016
Economic success for Southwestern Illinois is contingent on our ability to develop and
implement a strategy to compete regionally, nationally and globally.
Participants in the study identified social and political decentralization as an impediment to
economic success.
Respondents further identified the need for a united voice on regional economic
development issues and for the creation of an identifiable brand for Southwestern Illinois.
The region’s existing strengths include significant energy-producing assets (i.e. bio-fuels,
electricity generation, petroleum refining); a highly developed transportation infrastructure;
a continued presence of heavy industry; a skilled, experienced and motivated workforce;
quality education system; strong healthcare delivery system and an unmatched location.
The main challenge for the region is to be able to mobilize these strengths and resources so
that Southwestern Illinois can compete not just with other Midwestern regions but also on a
global basis, expanding global exports and attracting investment from international
corporations.
Six key cluster areas that have been identified as opportunities for future growth align with
the region’s confirmed strengths and include allied health, energy, heavy industry, light
industry, logistics and transportation, and agriculture.
Among the most promising clusters due to existing infrastructure and/or significant capital
investments are allied health, energy, logistics, and transportation.
In addition to pursuing growth opportunities in these sectors, the regional effort also needs
to focus on redevelopment opportunities and on retaining and strengthening those existing
enterprises that have been drivers of our economy in recent years, such as Mid-Coast
Aviation, U.S. Steel and ConocoPhillips.
There is a need for increased emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship and for
expanding the role of institutions of higher education as economic development engines as
they promote entrepreneurial skills and technology transfer.
Education and workforce initiatives will need greater alignment with the sectors of our
economy with the highest potential for growth – healthcare, energy and
transportation/logistics.
Continued coordination and collaboration will be critical to ensure the development of
successful implementation strategies based on the Vision 2020 recommendations.
Next Steps:
The Vision 2020 process identified potential initiatives and strategies to advance our region. The
next step is to engage individuals beyond the boundaries of the original organizations in prioritizing
those initiatives and strategies to guide the region’s overall economic development strategy for the
upcoming decade. They will also need to collaborate on the creation of an identifiable brand for the
region and to secure the resources necessary to promote that brand to support the region’s economic
development efforts.
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