BEDFORD – The Lawrence County Economic Growth Council (LCEGC) is reinforcing its commitment to local workforce development by broadening its support and training opportunities. Through a strategic partnership with the Wagler Education and Training Center, individuals aspiring to build new careers now have access to specialized, skills-based training designed to lead directly to certification and employment in high-demand fields.
The ILJAS (Introduction to Local Jobs And Skills), which is launching its 21st Cohort in August, is a foundational three-week initiative focusing on job readiness, connecting participants with local employers, and building essential soft skills for today’s workforce. However, for the LCEGC, this program marks just the beginning of a participant’s journey.
“Graduating from ILJAS is just the beginning,” said Cathy Bullington. “We want to ensure every participant has access to additional training that can immediately boost their employability and earning potential.”
Applications for the upcoming ILJAS cohort are still being accepted. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Cathy Bullington for more information.
Building on the success of ILJAS, the LCEGC is also promoting two new certification courses:
- Location: North Lawrence Career Center
- Dates: September 3 – October 2, 2025
- Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Led by instructor Mike Tuell, this five-week evening course will provide comprehensive training in various welding methods, including FCAW, GMAW, SMAW, and GTAW. Upon earning certification, participants will be eligible for direct entry into the Millwright apprenticeship program through IKORCC.
- Pre-registration: Available at www.waglereducation.com.
- Mandatory In-Person Registration: August 4 at 4 p.m.. A valid Indiana ID is required.
NCCER Core Construction Certification
- Location: North Lawrence Career Center
- Dates: September 3 – October 2, 2025
- Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Instructor Tyler Kalber will lead this course, offering hands-on training in fundamental construction skills. Newly added topics include an introduction to electrical work, residential wiring, and electrical tools. This program culminates in a nationally recognized credential highly valued across the construction industry.
- Pre-registration: Available at www.waglereducation.com.
- Mandatory In-Person Registration: August 4 at 4 PM. A valid Indiana ID is required.
Grant funding is available to help cover the costs of both the Certified Welder and NCCER Core Construction Certification courses. While a high school diploma or GED is not required for enrollment, students who do not possess one must be willing to work towards obtaining a GED.
These advanced training opportunities are designed to build momentum from ILJAS, providing clear, real-world pathways to sustainable employment in high-demand industries.
For more information about ILJAS or these upcoming training programs, contact the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council at (812) 275-4493 or email cathy@lawrencecountygrowth.com.
