Aurora Celebrates First Graduates from Green Energy Job Training Center

A new center in Aurora offering job training in green energy fields celebrated its first graduation. Sixteen students completed the program run by the 548 Foundation, a key entity at Aurora’s CEJA Workforce Development Hub. The center is located at a previously unused city facility at 649 S. River St., now funded through the state Climate and Equitable Jobs Act.

Mayor John Laesch addressed the graduates, emphasizing their significance to the community. He stood by a course-created structure during the ceremony. The program prepares graduates to become apprentices in the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council, with training in construction and solar power systems. Graduates also gain credentials such as OSHA-30 Construction Certification, a National Construction Education Research Core Certification, and CPR/First Aid Certification.

During the event, each graduate was individually recognized. AJ Patton, founder of 548 Foundation, praised the graduates, asserting their positive impact on the marketplace. Laesch acknowledged challenges within the Hub, like improving facilities and partnerships, but commended the class’s perseverance.

The building, once part of the city’s water and sewer division, is now leased to the College of DuPage and 548 Foundation for clean-energy training. Laesch shared a personal connection, recounting his past as a carpenter advocating for energy-efficient practices. He plans to promote Aurora as a green building city.

Laesch’s campaign emphasized sustainability and job creation. Patton credited Laesch’s active involvement for attracting the 548 Foundation to Aurora. A certificate was presented to Laesch for his contributions.

Since the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act’s passage in 2021, Aurora was marked as a key training hub location. The hub’s physical site opened after five years of planning. Its mission is to prepare residents for green jobs, supporting sustainable futures.

U.S. Rep. Bill Foster addressed the graduates, noting their unique position compared to others facing student loans and job insecurity. Foster highlighted the stability in building trades and energy sectors. The 548 Foundation supports students with $500 weekly stipends, facilitating their training journey.

Laesch is working on creating job opportunities for graduates in upcoming projects, like a city solar initiative. Patton reassured that future job announcements are forthcoming for these graduates.