The work experience program is a like a paid internship.  You are paid to learn hands-on experience plus good work habits at an area employer or organization.  We work with you to find out what experience you may or may not already have along with what your career goals are to match you to an ideal worksite.  Work schedules are discussed and agreed upon, but will not be more than 29 hours per week and the program will last no longer than 6 months.  We pay you the wage that you would earn in that same position if the employer hired you directly.  This is a great opportunity to get experience when you've never had a job or in a career you're attending school for!

Success Stories

Allana

Allana successfully completed a 6 month internship and then applied to and was hired at the worksite!  She started with no work history, but the hands-on experience made a significant impact on her.  "She has shown an immense growth in responsibility, maturity, and accountability. She has found a place she belongs, people she loves to work with, and a career she wants to pursue. She is now considering college when she had no desire to continue her education before this program. I have never seen her show such dedication to an interest and I love seeing her face light up when she comes home and tells me about her day."​

Jasmine

Jasmine enjoyed working with the elderly, so becoming a CNA was number one on her list of career goals. While attending classes to obtain her certification, she took the first step on her professional journey when she secured a paid internship with Evenglow Lodge. This hands-on experience was more than job training, it allowed Jasmine to make informed decisions about her career and set her up for future success. After obtaining her nursing assistant certification, she is now working as a full time CNA while attending classes toward her RN degree.​

Common Questions

Who will I report to?

You will be assigned a supervisor at the worksite who will be your primary contact.  If you have any issues with the worksite or the program, your career planner will be available to assist you.

Who will pay me?

You will receive a check or direct deposit (as requested) from Kankakee Community College.  Our federal grant funds under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act are administered through Kankakee Community College. 

How often will I get paid?

You will be paid every two weeks following the Kankakee Community College payroll schedule.  Timesheets must be submitted in order for you to get paid for the hours you worked.

What happens if I have an accident at the worksite?

Kankakee Community College will cover any workman's compensation claims.  It is important to notify our office or your career planner ASAP if something happens to be sure a claim is filed on time.

Will I be hired at the end of the work experience?

Worksites are not obligated to hire you following a work experience.  However, if they have a job opening and you want to apply to it, you are encouraged to do so.

INTERESTED OR HAVE QUESTIONS?

Call 309.268.8280 and let us know you want to know more about the work experience program.