The Illinois Council of Community College Administrators has recognized Richland Community College for its industrial job skills training with essential skills. The program was recognized for its approach to training delivery methods and teaches skills in welding, CNC, occupational safety, precision measuring tools, hand tools, technical math, blueprint reading, and heavy equipment operation.

In just over a year, the program has seen some outstanding results with 95% of IJST graduates receiving employment with various manufacturing companies and 100% of employed essential skills training students retaining employment. 

The award was accepted by Dr. Cristobal Valdez, President and John Oliver, Director of Workforce Development at the Illinois Council of Community College Administrators conference in East Peoria.