Kish College to offer workshops and training for local employers

To support an expanding workforce, Kishwaukee College will offer several free workshops and training events for local businesses and their employees. Funding for the workshops is provided through the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) Noncredit Workforce Training Grant. The grant aims to increase responsiveness to employer needs and workforce strategies by building capacity and strengthening the impact of noncredit workforce training at community colleges.

Building Workplace Dynamics Workshop

Building Workplace Dynamic Training is an interactive workshop that equips participants with tools and knowledge to enhance collaboration, communication and inclusivity. Participants will define and identify dynamics that influence team interactions and organizational structures, learn how unconscious biases impact workplace relationships, and develop actionable strategies to improve workplace culture.

The workshop is offered in two-hour sessions and is available in February and March. Certified trainers include LaCretia Konan, Kish College Associate Vice President of College Relations; Dr. Rosy Cordero, Kish College Director of Student Engagement; and Betsy Petrie, Workforce Development Trainer.

Crucial Conversations Training: Elevating Dialogue Skills

Crucial Conversations Training focuses on helping professionals master the art of navigating high-stakes conversations where emotions run strong, opinions differ and outcomes matter. The course provides training to confidently handle challenging conversations, foster stronger relationships and drive better personal and professional results.  

Workplace Principles and Values Training

Enhance your professional skills through free Workplace Readiness Training. The training is a refresher on workplace principles and values. The courses are entirely online and can be worked on at any time, with training taking about 10-15 hours to complete. Participants will earn a micro-credential and certificate of completion when finishing the courses. The training is available through Pathful Explorer, an interactive platform providing information and tools to help users explore career pathways and earn credentials. With a focus on employability skills, the course topics cover working with others and workplace intelligence, communication, behavior and etiquette. Anyone interested can work with their employer or human resources representative to coordinate the training with Kishwaukee College.

Business Growth Academy

The Business Growth Academy is a seven-part series designed for established business owners who are open and generating revenue. The free courses are taught by Dr. Jock Sommese from 6:15-8:15 pm at the DeKalb Public Library or via Zoom. Classes are on Thursdays from Feb. 27-April 10.

Learn more or register for the free workshops or training sessions at kish.edu/workforcedevelopment.