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:

312.894.7975 Send a Message

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

Road to Success Flyer

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

Culinary Skills Flyer

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

Construction Skills Flyer

“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.

Course Catalog

Disclosure Data

Student Complaint Information