Pioneering Your Future | Train Here. Go Anywhere.
Explore Illinois Manufacturing
Prairie State College has teamed up with the MakeItInIllinois grant to inspire the next generation of innovators and highlight the limitless opportunities in manufacturing. Manufacturing is more than just a career—it's a pathway to creativity, cutting-edge technology, and making a real impact on your community. Whether you're planning to attend college, learn a new trade skill, or jump-start your career, PSC offers the tools and support to help you succeed in a career in manufacturing.
Manufacturing Training
Maximize your earning potential by acquiring sought-after skills at PSC. Gain knowledge directly from expert professionals through hands-on courses in HVAC, CNC machining, welding, and more. Whether your goal is to obtain a certification, an industry-recognized credential, or an associate degree, PSC offers the training necessary to advance your career in manufacturing. Sign up today and take the next steps on the journey to a brighter future!
Local Career Pathways
Get ready for a high-demand career with our specialized curriculum that aligns with the needs of local and regional industries. Thanks to our collaborations with nearby manufacturers, you will receive practical training and exposure to real-world experiences. Our graduates achieve impressive job placement rates, which pave the way for successful careers in manufacturing.
Equity and Access
PSC students have equal access to education with free support services and accommodations for those with disabilities. Our goal is to make sure everyone can learn in a welcoming environment.
Financial Assistance Programs
PSC offers financial help to make college more affordable, including grants, scholarships, student tech loans, apprenticeships, and work-study programs.
Manufacturing Training Programs
Other Manufacturing / Industrial Certifications
Prairie State College offers trades-related career pathway opportunities through vocational certificates in OSHA, NCCER, IDOT Construction Flagger, Thermo King, Drone Operation, Utility Locator, Snap-on Tools, PMI (Precision Measurement Instruments), Welding, CNC operations, Class A and B CDL, and other tooling certification programs.
These certifications provide practical skills directly aligned with workforce needs in construction, transportation, utilities, advanced manufacturing, and public infrastructure—sectors in demand throughout the region.
Construction, Infrastructure, and Skilled Trades
- Construction Laborer
(NCCER, OSHA, IDOT Flagger)
Entry-level role on residential, commercial, or public works job sites. - Highway Maintenance Worker
(IDOT Flagger, OSHA, CDL B)
Employed by IDOT contractors or local municipalities to support roadway and infrastructure projects. - General Contractor Assistant
(NCCER, OSHA)
Support site setup, materials handling, and safety compliance. - Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee
(NCCER, OSHA, CDL B)
Entry-level path into excavation, grading, and material moving operations. - Welder – Entry Level/Structural
(Welding certifications, OSHA)
Work in structural steel, fabrication shops, and field welding for construction or utility infrastructure.
Utilities and Public Works
- Utility Locator
(Utility Locator Certification, OSHA)
Employed by utility companies and municipalities to locate underground infrastructure. - Water/Wastewater Technician Assistant
(OSHA, tooling certifications)
Support maintenance and monitoring of public water systems. - Line Worker Apprentice (Electric or Gas)
(OSHA, tooling certifications)
Entry pathway to union or utility company programs. - Public Works Operator Trainee
(CDL B, OSHA)
Assist with municipal operations, including street maintenance and seasonal work for city departments.
Transportation and Logistics
- Refrigeration Technician Assistant (Thermo King Systems)
(Thermo King certification, Snap-on Tools)
Entry-level in reefer truck repair or HVAC for transportation. - Diesel or Automotive Technician
(Snap-on, PMI, Thermo King)
Skills applied in dealerships, fleet maintenance, and independent shops. - Fleet Maintenance Technician
(Tooling and OSHA safety knowledge critical)
Employed by logistics companies and local governments. - Commercial Driver – CDL A or B Permit Holder
(Class A or B CDL Permit, OSHA)
Prepares individuals for careers in freight delivery, transit driving, waste management, and public transportation with opportunities to earn full CDL licensure.
Advanced Manufacturing and Tooling
- Precision Machinist or CNC Operator
(CNC operations training, PMI, Snap-on Tools)
Work in machining shops and manufacturing plants using measurement and tooling skills for precision part production. - Welder – Fabrication & Manufacturing
(Welding certifications, OSHA)
Fabricate components for use in manufacturing, transportation, and structural systems. - Quality Control Technician
(PMI certification essential for measurement, inspection, and calibration) - Maintenance Technician
(Tooling certifications + OSHA safety essential for working with machinery and equipment)
Safety and Compliance
- Site Safety Coordinator
(OSHA 30)
Oversight of workplace safety programs in construction, manufacturing, or logistics. - Health & Safety Assistant
(OSHA 10/30)
Entry-level support in corporate or industrial safety departments. - Warehouse Safety Specialist
(OSHA, PMI for basic tooling knowledge)
Ensures safe storage, handling, and logistics operations.
Technology and Innovation
- Drone Operator for Construction, Agriculture, or Public Safety
(FAA Part 107 certification, Drone training)
Use drones for inspection, surveying, videography, or environmental monitoring. - GIS Technician Assistant
(Drone operation + mapping skills for city planning or infrastructure)
Career Settings Within District 515
- Municipalities: Chicago Heights, Ford Heights, Matteson, Richton Park
• Employers: Union contractors, IDOT subcontractors, Nicor Gas, ComEd, Metra, Thermo King dealers, local manufacturers
• Industries: Construction, public utilities, logistics, transportation, automotive, advanced manufacturing, and environmental services
Connect with Us
Career and Technical Education Programs
(708) 709-3595
tjiles@prairiestate.edu
Workforce Development and Community Education
(708) 709-3580
aclark1@prairiestate.edu