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News & Events

May 2026

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONALS

2026 Annual Conference in Phoenix, AZ

Three women posing for a picture at the annual conference.
LWIA staff at annual conference.
National Association of Workforce Development Professionals group photo.

We (Dawn and Maddy) just got back from the 2026 NAWDP Annual Conference, aptly named RISE UP, in Phoenix, Arizona. There’s something powerful about being in a room full of people who all care about workforce development and are working toward the same goals.

We met so many others who share the same passion and are out there innovating and sharing their successes and what they learned from their hiccups. So many practical ideas and case studies that we can apply right here at LWIA 23 at CEFS Economic Opportunity Corporation, and we can't wait to get started!

April 2026

LWIA 23 HIGHLIGHTS

During National Apprenticeship Week, CEFS LWIA 23 proudly recognized two outstanding women in the RN Apprenticeship Program at Clay County Hospital and Clinics with the presentation of Apprenticeship Certificates.

The certificates were presented by Maddy Sarver, highlighting an important milestone in each apprentice’s professional journey.

These certificates reflect the dedication, perseverance, and commitment these apprentices have shown while advancing their nursing careers and strengthening the local healthcare workforce. CEFS LWIA 23 is proud to support apprentices through hands-on training opportunities that lead to long-term career success in healthcare.

Congratulations to both recipients on this well-earned achievement!

A picture of LWIA 23 staff giving certificate to apprenticeship participant.
A picture of LWIA 23 staff giving certificate to apprenticeship participant.

LWIA 23 HIGHLIGHTS

In April, LWIA 23 had the privilege of presenting incentive

checks to five local employers for their launch of a registered apprenticeship program. This funding was made possible through the Apprenticeship Specialist Grant awarded by the State of Illinois.

Each employer, along with the guidance of Lesa Allsop and/or Bonnie Moore at Lake Land College, sought support for their program with WIOA funding. LWIA 23 aided this effort by helping fund the apprentice’s tuition, books, and related fees.

Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.
Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.

F&C Concrete

Apprentice: Braydon Letterle

Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.
Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.

Stevens Industries, Inc.

Apprentice: Alyssa Cavazos

Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.
Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.

Safety Storage, Inc.

Apprentice: Samantha Baker

Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.
Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.

Sullivan Health Care

Apprentice: Calista Stewart

Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.
Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.
Photo of LWIA 23 staff and apprenticeship participant.

Palm Garden

Apprentice: Kia Herschberger and Amanda Meiksane

If you are interested in learning more about how an apprenticeship can benefit your business, we welcome the opportunity to connect. Please reach out to us via LinkedIn or visit our website at lwa23.com.

LWIA 23 logo

CEFS Economic Opportunity Corporation

1805 South Banker Street
Effingham, IL  62401


(217) 342-2193 ext. 2121

 

lwia23@cefseoc.org

Illinois WorkNet Center logo.

LWIA 23 is a proud member of the American Job Center network, and an Illinois workNet partner. Sponsored by the Local Workforce Innovation Board 23. Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it.

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