At IE Corp, we believe that strong communities build strong companies. That’s why our IE Centralia team is deeply invested in developing the region’s workforce, supporting education, and becoming a trusted partner in the growth of Centralia and beyond. Here are just a few recent recognitions that reflect our growing involvement and impact.
2025 ICCTA Business & Industry Partnership Award
One of the proudest moments for IE Centralia this year was receiving the prestigious 2025 Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) Business and Industry Partnership Award. This award recognizes our collaboration with Kaskaskia College, a partnership that’s been instrumental in advancing local workforce development.
IE Centralia proudly supports Kaskaskia College by
- serving on advisory boards that guide program development,
- donating to career and technical education (CTE) programs and the KC Foundation,
- offering employee training opportunities, and
- providing meaningful job placements for KC students and graduates.
The college’s faculty and administration have called it a “successful workforce-training alliance,” and we couldn’t agree more.
“Partner in Progress” Recognition from the Centralia Chamber of Commerce
We were also thrilled to be recognized by the Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce as a Partner in Progress, a distinction given to businesses that are actively contributing to the economic growth and community well-being of Centralia and surrounding areas.
This acknowledgment reflects the broader impact of our operations and our growing reputation as not only an employer but also a trusted civic partner. Whether it’s through career opportunities, technical innovation, or local involvement, IE is dedicated to helping Centralia thrive.
Apprenticeship Excellence at Kaskaskia College Forum
Workforce development remains a core pillar of IE Corp, and that commitment was recently recognized at Kaskaskia College’s inaugural Apprenticeship Forum. We were honored to receive formal recognition and a proclamation for our apprenticeship programs, a testament to our investment in both people and local partnerships.
As part of the event, IE apprentice Bradley Huelsmann participated in a panel discussion, where he shared how the apprenticeship program has benefited him both financially and academically. His firsthand insights illustrated the true value of combining paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, a model that not only supports individual career growth but also strengthens the regional workforce pipeline.
The event coincided with Governor Pritzker’s official proclamation of National Apprenticeship Week in Illinois, celebrating the critical role apprenticeships play in building a skilled and future-ready workforce. IE Centralia was recognized alongside other respected local employers for our contributions to this important initiative.
We’re proud to collaborate with Kaskaskia College, CEFS LWIA 23, and other partners who are dedicated to making apprenticeship programs more accessible and impactful throughout Southern Illinois.
This recognition reinforces our belief that investing in apprenticeships is a win-win, helping individuals gain career-ready skills while providing companies like ours with a talented and motivated team.
Continued Community Commitment
As we continue to grow in Centralia, we remain committed to investing in people, partnerships, and long-term solutions that strengthen the region. Thank you to our local educators, chambers, and collaborators who are helping us make it possible.