A committee of the Regional Workforce Alliance

Emerging Workforce

Before the first job.

The Emerging Workforce Committee prepares the next generation of talent in Greater Peoria and works to keep that talent in the region.

With a shared vision of equitable access to opportunity, we connect youth and young adults to high-quality career pathways that lead to sustainable, meaningful employment in our regional economy.

By bringing together educators, employers, community organizations, and youth-serving partners, the committee strengthens career awareness, expands experiential learning, and aligns education with the evolving needs of local industries.

Co-chairs

  • Beth Crider

    Emerging Workforce Co-Chair

    Beth Crider

    Superintendent, Peoria Regional Office of Education (ROE 48)

  • Sandy Arreguin

    Emerging Workforce Co-Chair

    Sandy Arreguin

    Dean of College and Career Readiness, Illinois Central College

What we keep an eye on

  • Career exploration and awareness in K-12
  • Enrollment in Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs
  • Dual credit and dual enrollment participation
  • Work-based learning opportunities for students
  • Career pathway alignment with high-demand sectors
  • Equity in access to early career experiences
  • Youth engagement and retention in the region

Current initiatives

  • Pathways to Prosperity Building structured pathways that carry students from high school into postsecondary credentials and careers.
  • CareerSpark Expansion Growing the regional career-exploration event that introduces students to local employers and in-demand work.
  • Industry-Connected Classrooms Bringing employers into the classroom so coursework reflects the work being done in the region.
  • PaCE Framework Adoption Adopting Illinois' Postsecondary and Career Expectations framework across regional districts.
  • High School Internships Expanding paid, credit-bearing work experience before graduation.
  • Early College Credit Widening dual credit and dual enrollment so students finish high school already progressing toward a credential.
  • Pathway Endorsements Supporting districts pursuing College and Career Pathway Endorsements.
  • Regional Data Infrastructure Tracking student movement through pathways so the region can see what is working.

The other committees

Nobody reaches 60% alone.

Employers, educators, and community partners are already at the table. Join them.

Get involved