Returning Residents Clean Jobs Training

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Building clean energy career pathways for formerly incarcerated individuals
The Returning Residents Program helps currently incarcerated individuals build new futures through clean energy careers. Training combines technical instruction and essential job skills to support successful reentry and long-term employment.​

What the Returning Residents Program Provides​​​

The Returning Residents Clean Jobs Training Program delivers hands-on training and workforce readiness education for individuals in the custody of the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC). Participants gain employability skills, clean energy knowledge, and industry-recognized certifications—all aligned with the Clean Jobs Curriculum Framework.

Training is offered at select correctional facilities across Illinois:

  • Decatur Correctional Center (Women's facility - Decatur, IL)
  • Vienna Correctional Center (Men's facility - Vienna, IL)
  • Western Illinois Correctional Center (Men's facility - Mt. Sterling, IL)
  • Kewanee Life skills Re-Entry Center (Men's facility - Kewanee, IL)

Program Goals

The Returning Residents Clean Jobs Training Program is degisned to:
  • Prepare participants for entry-level jobs in the clean energy industry
  • Build pathways to employment and long-term career success upon re-entry
  • Expand equitable access to workforce development opportunities across Illinois

Career Pathways and Employer Connections

Participants who complete the program are ready to pursue clean energy employment opportunities.

Employers can:

  • Connect with skilled, motivated graduates who have completed the Returning Residents Program
  • Access the Hiring Returning Residents handbook for step-by-step guidance on recruiting, hiring, and retaining returning residents
  • Learn about available state and federal incentives for inclusive hiring


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Find Your Illinois Energy Transition Navigator
​​Depending on location, employers may be able to connect with an ET Navigator to gain access to participants who have completed the CEJA Returning Residents Program and are ready to begin entry-level positions with clean energy employers. Employers may also find qualified workers through the Illinois Power Agency’s Energy Workforce Equity Portal.