Our job readiness services will pave the road to success so you can thrive in the employment world.
Michael Barlow Center
Employment Preparation Training
The Michael Barlow Center offers a number of training programs and resources which will enable participants to increase their likelihood of obtaining jobs with sustainable wages and benefits.
The Michael Barlow Center also offers two skills training programs in the construction and the culinary fields. These training programs equip participants with the skills needed to enter the field as well as industry knowledge and credentials to work their way up to well-paying positions.
Program Costs:
No cost for qualifying individuals
Orientation:
Every Wednesday at 3pm and Friday at 10am at Saint Leonard’s Ministries, Barlow Center
2120 W. Warren Blvd., Chicago, IL 60612
For questions or to register for orientation:
First Step
Road to Success
All participants begin their relationship with the Michael Barlow Center by completing the Road to Success (RTS) program. RTS guides participants in communicating with co-workers, supervisors and hiring managers. Other segments of the program help participants identify the soft and technical skills they possess. RTS is capped by mock interviews conducted with business managers.
Training Includes:
- Skills Identification
- Job Application Process
- Resume and Cover Letter Preparation
- Interview Preparation
- Conflict Resolution
- Workplace Etiquette
- Computer and Financial Literacy
- Mindfulness / Avoiding Negative Thoughts • Individualized Career Coaching
- Job Placement and Retention Support
Next Steps
Culinary Skills Training Program
The 10-week Culinary Training program teaches both basic and advanced culinary skills, including industry certifications and transitional employment at Gracie’s Catering, Saint Leonard’s Social Enterprise. This program is designed to prepare participants for jobs in the food service industry.
Training Includes:
- Safety and Sanitation License
- Food Handler’s Certificate
- Knife Skills
- Cooking Principles
- Flavoring
- Food Presentation and Service
- Hands-on training in our catering
social enterprise - Transitional Employment
(subject to availability) - Individualized Coaching
- Job Placement and Retention Support
Next Steps
Construction Skills Training Program
The 14-week Construction Skills program teaches participants basic and advanced construction techniques, including OSHA certifications and transitional employment. This program is designed to prepare participants for union trade apprenticeships and jobs in the construction industry.
Training Includes:
- Basic and Advanced Carpentry skills • Basic and Advanced Plumbing skills • Basic and Advanced Electrical skills • Blueprint Reading
- OSHA 10 Safety Certification
- Foundational Math
- Transitional Employment
(subject to availability) - Hands-on training
- Individualized Coaching
- Job Placement and Retention Support
“They find you a job, they introduce you to people that can help, they help you get your life right. That’s what Road to Success does.”
— Alexander, Barlow Center Alum
Find Your Path
Illinois Board of Higher Education
The Construction Skills Training Program and Culinary Skills Training Program are approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of Illinois Board of Higher Education. The Barlow Center is not accredited by a US Department of Education recognized accrediting body.
