Triton College Celebrates WEI Students Advancing into High-Wage Careers
RIVER GROVE, Ill. – Students and families gathered for Triton College’s Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI) Spring 2026 Competition Ceremony on Thursday, June 4, in the Student Center Cafeteria (B Building). The celebration honored 65 students who completed the WEI Program during the spring semester and earned certificates that will aide them in finding employment in high-wage, in-demand career fields.
WEI is a grant program sponsored by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) designed to shorten the time it takes for students from low-income backgrounds to enter and succeed in high-skilled occupations.
“WEI is a special, dynamic program,” said Cierra Morris, Triton’s director of WEI. “The program helps diverse populations with academic and financial support, allowing students to break barriers and succeed.”
The ceremony began with remarks from Triton College President Mary-Rita Moore, followed by reflections from WEI completers Jazmin Phillips and Jesus Martinez.
Phillips, who describes herself as driven and motivated, earned a 4.0 GPA during her time in the Program. She expressed gratitude for the resume, job and career preparation support she received.
“If it wasn’t for WEI, I wouldn’t have received my Electrical Certificate,” she said. “I’m able to pursue a career that I’m passionate about.”
Jesus Martinez of Stone Park earned his Emergency Medical Technician Certificate and is currently employed with Elite Ambulance. His long-term goals include becoming a paramedic and eventually a firefighter.
“The resources that WEI provided kept me motivated,” he said. “School doesn’t have to be stressful.”
Kathleen Jelski, director of Administrative Services and Talent Management at E.J. Basler Co., shared remarks from an employer partner’s perspective.
“Triton is doing incredible things for students who want to pursue nontraditional careers, such as the trades,” she said. “People need to realize that one day the trades are going to run the world. The WEI Program truly supports these students who want to transition to meaningful careers.”
The ceremony concluded with a certificate presentation by Dr. Susan Campos, Triton’s vice president of Academic Affairs.
In addition to the spring completers, Morris said that 87 students completed in fall 2025. Across the 2025-2026 academic year, 41 students earned a 4.0 GPA and 47 earned a 3.0 GPA or higher.
“It’s very important that we celebrate our completers,” noted Morris. “Our students have worked hard and deserve the spotlight. WEI is helping break generational curses. It’s a good day to be a director.”
WEI, led by ICCB and Illinois Central College, provides a comprehensive support model that combines academic advising, career readiness and employment services. ICCB has awarded $18.7 million to 20 participating community colleges throughout Illinois.
WEI certificate programs include Carpentry, Certified Nursing Assistant, Engineering Technology/Electrical, Truck Engine Repair and Plumbing and more, with students earning an average starting wage of $20.68 per hour.
WEI serves students in 25 towns and villages within the Triton College District 504, including Bellwood, Broadview, Elmwood Park, Forest Park, Hillside, Maywood, Melrose Park, Oak Park, River Grove, Rosemont and Stone Park.
Visit triton.edu/wei for more information.
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Media Contacts: Melissa Ramirez Cooper | melissacooper@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3496
Maryann Dibari | maryanndibari@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3691
ABOUT TRITON COLLEGE
Triton College is a public institution of higher education dedicated to student success.
Recently recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the Top 200 community colleges in the nation, Triton offers more than 130 degree and certificate
programs that prepare students to pursue meaningful careers, transfer to four-year
universities, and thrive in a global economy. Guided by our mission—Valuing the individual, educating and serving the community—Triton serves nearly 17,000 students annually on its 110-acre campus in River Grove,
Illinois. Our dedicated faculty and staff provide high-quality, accessible and affordable
educational opportunities that empower students and strengthens the communities we
serve. Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member
of The Illinois Community College Board. Illinois is home to 45 colleges in 39 community
college districts. Learn more at triton.edu.
