Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) is taking swift action to support more than 1,000 workers and families affected by the abrupt closure of Champion Laboratories in Albion. The college system is coordinating campus and community resources to provide training opportunities, financial assistance, and career services to those impacted by the shutdown.
“For many, this is a deeply difficult moment, and I believe it is a moment where IECC needs to step forward to lend assistance,” said IECC Chancellor Dr. Ryan Gower. “We are not simply a collection of campuses and programs. We are part of the economic infrastructure of this region. When a major employer closes, we have a responsibility to step in and assist.”
To help affected employees, IECC has scheduled a series of informational workshops focused on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. These sessions will guide attendees through available unemployment benefits, health insurance coverage, 401K and retirement benefits, utility assistance, and options for training and further education.
Presenters will include representatives from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Southern 14 Workforce Investment Board, Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, the U.S. Department of Labor/Employee Benefits Security Administration, and the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
Workshops will be held at the Workforce Building at Frontier Community College according to the following schedule:
Thursday, 10:00 AM: Last names A-E
Thursday, 1:30 PM: Last names F-J
Friday, 10:00 AM: Last names K-O
Friday, 1:30 PM: Last names P-T
Monday, March 9, 10:00 AM: Last names U-Z
Monday, March 9, 1:30 PM: Make-up session for anyone unable to attend earlier
IECC staff and workforce partners will be available to answer questions and guide individuals through this transition. Those unable to attend a workshop can schedule a one-on-one appointment with an advisor at any IECC campus.
Additionally, IECC is developing fast-track training programs in industrial and manufacturing technology, logistics, and healthcare entry roles. These programs are designed to help displaced workers quickly re-enter the workforce, with completion times ranging from a few days to one semester. Information about these programs and available financial aid will be provided at the workshops.
Dr. Sharmila Kakac, FCC President and IECC Vice Chancellor of Business and Industry, encourages all affected employees to take advantage of the resources available. “No one should feel they have to navigate this transition alone,” Kakac said. “IECC and our workforce partners stand ready to provide personalized, one-on-one assistance. Whether someone needs immediate employment support or is considering new training or credentials, we are here to help them move forward with confidence.”
For more information about available resources and upcoming workshops, visit www.iecc.edu/championlabs or the main IECC website at www.iecc.edu.