Parkland manufacturing pre-apprenticeship for ages 16-24 starts Oct. 19
Students get hands-on work in welding, electrical and pneumatics; spots are limited.
CHAMPAIGN - Parkland College will offer a manufacturing pre-apprenticeship beginning Monday, Oct. 19, with hands-on experience in welding, electrical work and pneumatics, the college said. Participants will also learn about local career opportunities.
Classes meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, and attendance is required at every session. The program runs until Monday, Nov. 23.
Applicants must be 16 to 24 as of Oct. 18, and those under 18 need a parent or guardian's permission. Current Parkland or ECCA manufacturing students are not eligible. Interested students submit an inquiry form and attend an enrollment meeting with Parkland's Workforce Development team; everyone who applies will hear about eligibility by Friday, Oct. 16.
Spots are limited, and priority goes to applicants who show a clear interest in manufacturing and a commitment to finishing the program. Details are at parkland.edu/WFDmanufacturing; the Office of Apprenticeships can be reached at 217-351-2447.
Source: Parkland College news release, Oct. 6, 2026.