Together with the Illinois Community College Board and the Clean Energy Working Group, Education Systems Center at NIU has finalized updates to the State of Illinois Model Programs of Study Guides in Architecture, Construction, and Energy and Manufacturing and Engineering to incorporate pathways to clean energy careers. As part of our ongoing commitment to preparing Illinois students for the jobs of tomorrow, these guides reflect the latest industry needs and incorporate feedback from a working group (see below) and as received in a public comment period.
Illinois is a national leader in both construction and energy jobs, with growing opportunities in clean and renewable energy sectors. As the state government prioritizes infrastructure investments and clean energy, including electric vehicles, there is an urgent need for a workforce equipped with the skills to build and maintain sustainable energy systems. The updated guides aim to ensure that students across Illinois have access to high-quality, relevant pathways into these promising fields.
Key changes to incorporate clean energy in the State of Illinois Model Programs of Study Guide in Architecture, Construction, and Energy include:
- Added information about the clean energy industry
- Included a new electric vehicle course sequence
- Updated the postsecondary options
- Added select occupations
Key changes to incorporate clean energy in the State of Illinois Model Programs of Study Guide in Manufacturing and Engineering include:
- Added information about the clean energy industry
- Added select occupations
Working Group
In 2024–2025, a Clean Energy Working Group for the State of Illinois Model Programs of Study Guides convened to review labor market information and career pathways for a broad range of clean energy jobs, drawing from the “Illinois Clean Energy Jobs and Training Program Inventory.” Thank you to the following members for their participation:
- Natasha Allan, Director for Career & Technical Education, Illinois Community College Board
- Vincent Hobart, Instructor, Electric Vehicle and Energy Storage, Heartland Community College
- David Husemoller, Executive Director, Illinois Green Economy Network (IGEN)
- Meagan Mitchell, PhD, Director of Pathways, Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University
- Curt Rendall, Executive Director, Program Development and Innovation, Heartland Community College
- James Stafford, Assistant Professor & Automotive Program Coordinator, Kankakee Community College
- Dana Wynn-Stockert, Director for Clean Energy, Illinois Community College Board
Learn More
Pathways Director Meagan Mitchell, PhD, shared an overview of the proposed changes prior to the public comment period:
