Workforce Empowerment Initiative Grant (WEI)

The Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI) is a statewide grant program focused on removing barriers and expanding access to career training for individuals and communities across Illinois. Through education, resources, and support, the WEI Grant helps students pursue in-demand careers that lead to long-term stability and living-wage opportunities.  

What is the WEI Grant? 

The Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI) is a statewide grant program designed to expand career training opportunities for individuals from distressed communities, helping them gain credentials and jobs that pay above the living wage.

Why it matters:

  • Removes financial barriers like tuition, childcare, transportation, and supplies.

  • Supports new student services and in-demand training programs.

Eligibility and Process 

To apply for WEI funding at Prairie State College, students must:

  • Attend an orientation (virtual or on campus).
  • Complete the online application.
  • Participate in an interview with a WEI team member.

WEI Grant funds awarded by Prairie State College are not transferable and may only be applied to Prairie State College programs

WEI Grant Application 2026

In-Demand Training Options:

WEI funds a wide range of non-credit and credit programs at PSC - from healthcare and emergency services to skilled trades and technology. 
  • Automotive Technician (Ford Referral Only)
  • CDL (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Construction
  • Dialysis Patient Care Technician (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Forklift (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Human Resource Management - aPHR Certificate (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Medical Central Service Technician (Sterilization) (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Phlebotomy Technician (Funding for 2026)
  • OSHA (Funding for Spring 2026)

The Workforce Development and Community Education division will no longer offer the Clinical Medical Assistant course after the spring 2026 semester.


  • Automotive Technician
  • Basic Firefighter I (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Basic Firefighter II
  • CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Dental Assistant
  • Firefighter/ EMT Certification (Funding for Spring 2026)
  • Google IT
  • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
  • Industrial Electrician
  • Nursing (A.A.)
  • Paramedic
  • Physical Therapist Assistant
  • Welding

Due to updated funding availability, WEI is unable to provide stipend support for Nursing tuition and NCLEX exam costs, Dental Hygiene tuition and NBDHE exam costs, and Surgical Technology stipends as originally projected and budgeted.


*Credit Courses must be completed by September 30, 2026

In an effort to identify needs and resources, students receiving WEI grant funds are expected to speak with the Retention Advisor monthly by email, phone or on campus visit.

If you receive WEI Grant funding, you are expected to find employment and/ or enhance your career. We will continue to follow up with you 2 to 10 months after the successful completion of your program.

Here's What Happens After Enrollment

Students receiving WEI funding are expected to stay engaged with WEI advisors and pursue employment or career advancement after completing their programs. Follow-up support continues up to 10 months after completion.

For more information, email: weigrant@prairiestate.edu

We're here to Help

Our WEI team is here to support you every step of the way. From orientation to program completion, our dedicated staff provide guidance, resources, and encouragement to help you stay on track and reach your career goals.

Get Started Today!  

Next Steps:

  • Attend an orientation
  • Complete your application
  • Connect with a WEI advisor

Contact: 
weigrant@prairiestate.edu
Director Brian Stanley | 708-709-3561 / 708-709-3554