Title
Joint resolution authorizing a contract with Symbol Training Institute, Skokie, Illinois, in an amount not to exceed $340,000 to be funded under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) for manufacturing sector training, employment services and job placement assistance.
Staff Summary
• The Workforce Development Board recommends approval to authorize a sub-receipt agreement with Symbol Training Institute to partner with Workforce Development to expand training capacity, strengthen industry partnerships, and create sustainable pathways to employment in the manufacturing sector.
• Lake County issued a Request for Proposal (RFP), which was extended to 26 firms, one proposal was received, and one firm was shortlisted.
• Based on the RFP evaluation criteria, the Workforce Development Board recommends entering into a contract agreement with Symbol Training Institute.
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Adult and Dislocated Worker Grant funding is appropriated for this agreement.
• The contract term is January 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, with the option to renew for two additional two year periods, contingent upon acceptable performance and the appropriation of sufficient funds.
Body
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, in accordance with Chapter 33.051 of the Lake County Purchasing Ordinance, proposals were called for by publication for establishing a contract with a qualified training provider capable of delivering advanced, hands-on training and aligning career pathways with employer demand across precision manufacturing and industrial maintenance under the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act as approved and recommended by the Lake County Workforce Development Board; and
WHEREAS, The Lake County Workforce Development Board (LCWDB) and Lake County Purchasing issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) on August 13, 2025, to solicit proposals to 26 firms and a sealed proposal was received and opened from one firm; and
WHEREAS, based on the criteria set forth in the RFP, the evaluation team selected Symbol Training Institute as qualified and favorable proposal for Lake County Workforce Development; and
WHEREAS, the Workforce Development Board has approved and is recommending a contract for Symbol Training Institute for the time period of January 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with the option to renew for two additional two year periods, contingent upon acceptable performance and the appropriation of sufficient funds; and
WHEREAS, project plans, benchmarks and a budget has been negotiated with Symbol Training Institute.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by this County Board of Lake County, Illinois, that the Purchasing Agent is hereby directed to enter into a contract with Symbol Training Institute, Skokie, Illinois, in the amount of $340,000.
DATED at Waukegan, Illinois, on December 9, 2025.