Will County Workforce Investment Director Elected as State Association Leader

Caroline L. Portlock, Director of the Workforce Investment Board (WIB) of Will County, has been elected President of the Illinois Workforce Partnership (IWP). The IWP represents local workforce development leaders throughout Illinois from 10 Economic Development Regions and 22 Workforce Innovation Boards.

“I am both excited and humbled for the opportunity to lead this group of workforce professionals,” said Portlock. “As Association President I look forward to ensuring that the Illinois Workforce Partnership and our stakeholders have a voice in how the workforce system serves our communities, our residents, and our businesses.”

The IWP advocates for the creation of a skilled workforce to improve the state’s competitiveness and growth. It connects businesses and individuals to resources utilizing public workforce systems. The association is comprised of leaders who strategically engage in a variety of local, regional, state, and national partners in workforce and economic development.

“Caroline is a recognized leader for workforce development and I congratulate her on being elected to this new role with the Illinois Workforce Partnership,” said Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. “Being chosen for this position is a testament to her hard work in Will County over the years and her commitment to developing strong workforce programs.”

Portlock has served as Will County’s WIB Director for seven years. In her role she serves as the administrative officer for the Board and is charged with implementing policies, procedures, and programs of the Board under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which includes the local American Job Center and the Workforce Center of Will County – located at 2400 Glenwood Ave., Joliet.

Portlock is also active with the Workforce Partners of Metro Chicago and the National Association of Workforce Boards.

For more information about the Workforce Center, visit Will.Works. For more information about the Illinois Workforce Partnership, visit Illinoisworkforcepartnership.org.