Our Statement of Equity
Recognizing its economic, societal and organizational benefits, we are committed leaders of workforce diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Advocating and supporting equitable access to career and employment opportunities, we partner with employers in the region to create equity in the workplace and promote a culture of belonging where everyone is seen, heard and valued.
Workforce Services
Career Seekers
Employment opportunities, hiring events, career coaching, employment training, and specific assistance for in and out of school youth.
Employers
Talent acquisition, on-the-job training, customized training, apprenticeships, work experience, upskilling talent.
Labor Market
Most recent unemployment and labor force information, including employment by industry, updated monthly.
News & Testimonials
The Workforce Connection On The News
The Workforce Connection's Executive Director, Dr. Gina Caronna, shared a presentation about our Business Services at the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce's "The Update" on March 21st. When...
Board Member Recognition Highlight
In celebration of Women's History Month, Board Member Pamela Lopez-Fettes received recognition from Dave Vella and the Illinois House of Representatives for being a leader in business. The...
Tyzhaun’s Success Story
Through our Elevate program, Tyzhaun successfully completed his work experience at Rockford Housing Authority where he was part of their maintenance team. Tyzhaun stated he thoroughly enjoyed...
Kimberly’s Success Story
Kimberly struggled to find employment despite applying for numerous positions. With the support of The Workforce Connection, she secured a position at the local library, which has been a dream of...
2024 Regional and Local Plan Public Comment Is Now Closed
Regional and Local Plan is available for public comment.
Stephenson County Job Fair
Join us for a Job Fair in Stephenson County on April 19, 2024 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Stephenson County Farm Bureau, 210 W. Spring Street, Freeport, IL 61032. Click here to view the event...
The Workforce Connection Board
Your Region’s Workforce Board
Serving Boone, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties in Northern Illinois
Please note: The next press release with March 2024 information will be Thursday, April 25, 2024.
Data provided by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, Tom Austin.
For any additional Labor Market information data inquiries, please reach out to The Workforce Connection at businessservices@theworkforceconnection.org .
Calendar
Calendar of Events
Career Assistance Application
Receive Education and/or Training Assistance
Community Impact
View Our Most Recent Annual Report
303 N Main Street, 3rd Floor, Rockford, IL 61101
600 S State Street, 2nd Floor, Belvidere, IL 61008
307 W. Main St., Freeport, IL 61032
(Freeport Temporary Address as of 04/29/24:
210 W. Spring Street, Stephenson Room, Freeport, IL 61032)
(815) 847-7574 | TTY (800) 526-0844
Email: info@theworkforceconnection.org
The Workforce Connection– an Illinois WorkNet Center and partner in the American Job Center network. This program is funded by The Workforce Connection, Inc., Il Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, and the U.S. Department of Labor. The Workforce Connection is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers on this website may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment by calling TTY (800) 526-0844 or 711. Contact the Equal Opportunity Officer at 815-395-6638. This program is subject to the provisions of the “Jobs for Veteran’s Act” Public Law 107-288, which provides priority of services to veterans and spouses of certain veterans. To view additional information related to the U.S. Department of Labor funding of this program, please visit www.theworkforceconnection.org/USDOLstatement