Center for Workforce Development

Apply today for the Fall 2026 program!

The Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) is a free, comprehensive pre-apprenticeship program that prepares individuals for careers in the highway construction trades. Funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation, in collaboration with the Federal Highway Administration, HCCTP is focused on increasing workforce diversity by supporting minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals.

This program emphasizes life-long learning and provides opportunities for further education and assistance to improve employability in Illinois’ highway construction industry. It is administered by the Illinois Community College Board and implemented through eleven Community Colleges throughout the state. Each of these Community Colleges hold a minimum of two training sessions per year in which individuals receive intensive training in highway construction-related skills, such as mathematics for the trades, job/life skills, first aid/CPR, introduction to welding, carpentry, concrete flatwork, surveying, blueprint reading, introduction to tools, forklift operation and OSHA 10-hour certification, etc. Additionally, each Community College provides its graduates with assistance in obtaining placement in Illinois’ highway construction trade unions, apprenticeship programs and/or with IDOT highway construction contractors.

The current program at John A. Logan College consists of two 12-week cohorts each year – typically beginning in February and August. Each cohort is comprised of 450 hours of both classroom and “hands-on” instruction. Classes take place from 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Monday – Friday on the JALC campus and at various project sites throughout the region. Candidates who successfully complete the program participate in a graduation ceremony.

Eligibility

To be considered for admission into the program, candidates must:

• be at least 18 years of age
• have a high school diploma or GED
• possess a valid driver’s license
• pass a background check (Candidates convicted of a “Forcible Felony”, as defined by Illinois Statute (720 ILCS 5/2-8) (from Ch. 38, par. 2-8), will not be considered for the program).
• consent to and successfully pass drug screenings
• have reliable transportation
• have reliable childcare (if applicable)
  

Applications

Complete and submit the application below to be considered for the program.

For more program information, contact the HCCTP Assistant Manager, Kaylee Leach, at (618) 985-2828, ext. 8643 or email her at Kaylee.Leach@jalc.edu.

Project Requests

HCCTP students complete projects within the JALC district for non-profit and government entities to gain experience and learn practical skills. If you would like to submit a project for consideration and are certain it meets eligibility guidelines, you may complete and submit the “Project Request Form” by clicking the button below. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis for fit and compliance with guidelines. You will be contacted should we need additional information or wish to proceed with your project. You may direct questions to the HCCTP Assistant Manager at 618-985-2828, ext. 8643.

Project Eligibility Guidelines

Before submitting a “Project Request Form”, please ensure your organization and project meet the guidelines below:

1. Organization is a non-profit organization, park district, or government entity.
2. Organization is located within the John A. Logan College district.
3. The requested project:
   1. pertains to construction basics with transferable skills,
   2. will keep multiple students busy,
   3. is able to be completed within 10 weeks or less, and
   4. is safe for students and staff without hazards.