LLCC Launches Professional Development Institute

Lincoln Land Community College has announced the launch of its Professional Development Institute, a new initiative offering training and continuing education opportunities aimed at meeting the needs of employers and working professionals across central Illinois.

The Professional Development Institute will serve as the college’s central hub for workforce and professional learning, connecting employers, organizations and individuals to targeted training, credentials and customized education solutions aligned with regional workforce demands.

“This is more than a new initiative — it’s a commitment to our community,” said LLCC President Charlotte Warren, Ph.D. “Strong communities are built on strong workforces. And in today’s rapidly changing world, the need for lifelong learning and skill development has never been greater.”

The institute offers a mix of in-person workshops and online courses and is designed to adapt quickly to workforce needs. Programming areas include leadership and management, technology and computer skills, workplace safety certifications, entrepreneurship and small business development, continuing education for health care and K-12 education professionals, and workplace readiness and professional skills.

“The Professional Development Institute is a powerful reminder of what community colleges can offer,” said Dr. Laurel Bretz, associate vice president of continuing, corporate and professional education. “People think of us as a place to get started — and while that’s true, we’re also a place to advance. Our programs are designed to help professionals sharpen their skills, elevate their careers and stay competitive.”

In addition to open-enrollment workshops, the institute partners directly with employers to create customized training programs tailored to specific organizational goals and workforce challenges. Training can be delivered onsite, at LLCC locations throughout the district or online.

“We’ve listened closely to employers and built this institute to address the real challenges they face,” said Dr. Diana Heeb Bivona, director of continuing education and business solutions. “Our approach is practical and employer driven. We design training that solves real problems so employees return to work with tools they can apply immediately, not concepts that stay in a binder.”

Through Jan. 30, the Professional Development Institute is offering a 50% discount on spring professional development opportunities using the code EARLYBIRD. The discount is supported in part by a Noncredit Strategies at Work Grant from the Illinois Community College Board.

Courses available through the institute include CompTIA certifications, AI at Work, Power Automate Jumpstart, Bring Math to Life in 6th–12th Grades, Small Business Finance, Supervision Essentials, Navigating Generational Differences in Today’s Workplace, and Understanding Customer Service Essentials.