URBANA, Ill. — Workforce readiness remains a growing concern nationwide. Many young people lack access to opportunities that help them build essential job skills, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. A New Hire Readiness Report 2025 from College Board and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation found that more than 80% of hiring managers believe recent high school graduates are not prepared for the workforce and are less ready than previous generations.
To help close this gap, Illinois 4-H offers a range of educational programs designed to strengthen workforce readiness and support career exploration among Illinois youth.
“Workforce readiness starts long before a young person applies for their first job,” says Cindy Ogwal, 4-H youth development college and career readiness specialist for Illinois Extension. “Through Illinois 4-H, youth learn by doing, gaining experiences that help them build confidence, strengthen essential workplace skills, and explore careers that match their interests.”
Ready4Work, a key Illinois 4-H initiative, focuses on helping youth develop practical, real-world job skills valued by employers, such as communication, professionalism, problem-solving, and teamwork. Through hands-on workshops, youth learn how to write resumes and cover letters, prepare for interviews, manage their time, and communicate professionally at work.
In 2025, Ready4Work reached more than 900 Illinois youth in grades 6 through 12 across 30 sites statewide.
Survey results show the Ready4Work program is helping young people feel more confident about entering the workforce. 87% of participants surveyed reported feeling more prepared to apply for a job, and 76% reported gaining knowledge on how to act professionally. One participant said they appreciated the opportunity to practice a real-world interview, further demonstrating the program's practical impact.
Youth can also earn industry-recognized certifications through Illinois 4-H. CPR and First Aid training certifications provide participants with tangible life skills before they enter the workforce. Illinois 4-H’s Beyond Ready Food Service Industry Credential Program provides a career-connected learning pathway to industry-recognized credentials in the foodservice and hospitality industries.
In 2025, approximately 34% of graduating 4-H seniors reported completing at least one certification.
“Every 4-H experience, including the Ready4Work program, helps young people develop the skills and confidence to lead and grow,” says Kevin Carey, assistant dean/program leader and director of 4-H Positive Youth Development for Illinois Extension. “They are ready for the future and prepared for what will come next as they enter the workforce.”
Through 4-H, young people can explore their interests and build new skills through more than 80 projects. Some even turn their projects into experiences that generate income. In a 4-H senior survey, 19% of respondents reported that their 4-H experiences inspired them to start a business.
Beyond individual outcomes, Illinois 4-H contributes to broader community development by supporting youth through career exploration and equipping them with skills they need for future success.
Membership in 4-H helps young people foster a sense of belonging and build confidence. With active Illinois 4-H clubs in all 102 Illinois counties, it is easy to get involved. Connect with a local 4-H office to learn more at go.illinois.edu/discover4H.
SOURCE: Cindy Ogwal, 4-H Youth Development College and Career Readiness Specialist, Illinois Extension/Illinois 4-H
WRITER: Morgan Mouser, Marketing and Communications Intern, Illinois Extension
PHOTO CAPTION: Illinois 4-H members in Lombard learn about retail career operations, customer service, and teamwork skills through a growing partnership between 4-H and Casey's. Photo credit: Rosie Ralston, Illinois Extension. Photo is available for media download, including credits.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.