Partner with Us

Grow the exact talent you need, tailored to your company, while boosting loyalty and reducing hiring costs. 

Join Local Employers Already Seeing the Benefits of Apprenticeships

Companies in our region are already using apprenticeships to strengthen their teams, lower costs, and secure their future workforce. Don’t get left behind—tap into the same advantages your peers are experiencing:

  • Build your talent pipeline with workers trained to your needs.
  • Close skills gaps and prepare for future demands.
  • Grow your own workforce aligned with your culture.
  • Boost retention with loyal, long-term employees.
  • Broaden your talent pool to reflect the community.
  • Save on recruiting costs by developing talent in-house.

Reduce the Cost of Apprenticeships with State & Local Funding

Apprenticeships don’t just build your workforce—they also come with significant financial support to help offset training costs. Employers in Illinois can take advantage of multiple funding streams designed to make apprenticeships an affordable, high-impact investment:

  • $3,500 State Tax Credit
    Eligible employers can receive a $3,500 per apprentice, per year tax credit for approved registered apprenticeship training costs.
  • Incumbent Worker Training Reimbursement
    Through the Local Workforce Innovation Area (LWIA), employers can be reimbursed for a portion of training costs when upskilling current employees.
  • Additional Funding Opportunities
    Our team works with employers to identify and connect you to other state and local grants, tuition support programs, and workforce development incentives that may apply to your industry.

How Heartland Helps

Our apprenticeship staff will guide you through available funding options, assist with applications, and ensure you maximize every opportunity to reduce costs. 

 

 

Connect Today 

Let’s talk about how we can help your company close skills gaps and grow talent. 

Still not sure? Consider the ROI of Apprenticeships for Employers

High Return on Investment

Studies show that for every $1 an employer invests in apprenticeship, they gain an average of $1.47 in benefits—through increased productivity, reduced turnover, and lower recruitment costs. (U.S. DOL).

Improved Retention & Culture

Apprentices stay longer: 94% of apprentices retain employment after completing their program, and nearly 99% of employers reported indirect benefits—including improved culture, stronger talent pipelines, and increased employee loyalty. (U.S. DOL).

 

Reduced Turnover Costs

The cost of replacing a skilled employee can range from 20% to 200% of their annual salary. Apprenticeship programs lower these costs by growing loyal, long-term employees. (Center for American Progress).

Increased Productivity

Employers report that apprentices start contributing productively within months, and productivity gains during training often offset program costs before completion (Urban Institute).

Talent Pipeline Advantage

More than 80% of employers say apprenticeships help them meet current and future workforce needs.

Why This Matters to You

  • Financial Upside: The numbers speak—apprenticeships pay off, quickly recouping costs and delivering value well beyond.
  • Sustainable Workforce: You’re building loyal, skilled employees who stay and grow with your business.
  • Cost Advantage: Leveraging Illinois’ generous tax credits and workforce grants makes apprenticeship programs even more affordable.
  • Community Benefit: Investing locally means lifting the workforce and regional economy—an outcome that benefits employers and communities alike.

Employer Resources

Program Agreement

Apprenticeship Program Participating Employer Agreement Between the Employer and Heartland Community College

Program Agreement

Request Information

We’re happy to meet with you to discuss your company needs and goals related to apprenticeships. Please contact us via email at apprenticeships@heartland.edu or complete the Interest Form below.

 

Contact Us

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Location

NEW: Instructional Commons Building, Suite 2100

1500 West Raab Road

Normal, IL 61761

Phone: 309-268-8160

TDD: 309-268-8030

Fax: 309-268-7882

E-mail: Continuing Education

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