Illinois Livestock Apprenticeship Program
The IL Pork Producers Association is proud to announce a new livestock apprenticeship program that has recently been registered with the U.S. Department of Labor with the help of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
This exciting new apprenticeship opportunity will prepare career seekers to succeed in the role of Swine Animal Care Technician. Participating apprentices will receive competitive compensation that will increase with their skill gains as they move through the program. Apprentices will also receive a debt-free education and livestock certificate from one of the five participating community colleges, which include:
- Illinois Central College, East Peoria
- John Wood Community College, Quincy
- Kaskaskia Community College, Centralia
- Lake Land Community College, Mattoon
- Lincoln Land Community College, Springfield
Student Benefits
- Employment from day one
- Zero or limited student loan debt
- Tailored education designed by their employer
Estimated Tuition Cost
- Illinois Central College $6400
- John Wood Community College $6900
- Kaskaskia Community College $6500
- Lake Land College $5000
- Lincoln Land Community College $5000
Producers
Pork producers interested in hosting an apprentice must sign an agreement with the students to offset their tuition costs in exchange for workforce training. Tuition costs taken on by the participating producers will be offset by the Apprenticeship Illinois Tax Credit, which allows employers up to $5,000 per apprentice per year in reimbursement for training costs. Students will be expected to work on farm and complete the job competencies outlined in the job position to receive their certificate at the end of one year. The goal of the program is to encourage students to choose a career in the livestock industry while attending college and advancing their future goals.
Employer Benefits
- Tailored training
- Employee loyalty & retention
- Competitive pool of applicants
- Tax credits possible for Registered Apprenticeship Programs
- Current employees can apply for the program
Education Expense Tax Credit Underserved Area Interactive Map
FAQ’s
How long is the apprenticeship program?
This is a compentince based apprenticeship. After 1 year your program can be completed, if signed off.
What is the hourly wage?
Apprentices will receive a minimum of $16 per hour during the 1st period, once half of the competencies are completed, they will increase to a minimum of $17 per hour and at the end of the apprenticeship period the apprentice will receive a minimum of $18 per hour.
What are the job competencies?
Swine Animal Care Technician Position
Which schools are participating?
- Illinois Central College – East Peoria
- John Wood Community College – Quincy
- Kaskaskia College – Centralia
- Lake Land College – Mattoon
- Lincoln Land Community College – Springfield
What is required of the producer if you hire an apprenticeship candidate?
The producer agrees to pay for the tuition of the student to receive a 1-year livestock certificate (155 instruction hours) and work around their instruction schedule. Tuition costs vary by participating school. The producer must sign a Memo of Understanding (MOU) with the student to set the terms of tuition payment and required years of service. Each MOU is specific to the employer and the apprentice. Apprentices must comply with working for the partnering farm during the determined length of time outlined in the MOU or the student must reimburse the farm for prorated tuition costs.
Are there tax benefits available?
Yes, the apprenticeship tax credit is $3,500 per apprentice per year. However, if the participating farm or student reside in an underserved area the tax credit is $5,000 per apprentice per year.
Can this program be used for incumbent workers?
Yes. If you have an employee interested in furthering their education and obtaining a livestock certificate and participating in the Livestock Apprenticeship Program they may do so.
Producers interested in the program should fill out the survey linked below.
Career seekers interested in applying for this apprenticeship opportunity should reach out to Jennifer Tirey via Email or by phone at (217) 529-3100.