Sen. Dick Durbin visits Harper College, meets with apprentices

Sen. Dick Durbin recently visited Harper College to discuss a variety of topics related to education, student support and Illinois’ workforce needs.

The senior U.S. senator from Illinois met with Dr. Avis Proctor, Harper president, to talk about subjects ranging from open educational resources and student services to partnerships with school districts and universities. Durbin then participated in a discussion with Harper faculty, staff and apprentices who are studying and working in health careers, supply chain management and CNC precision machining.

“Harper and other community colleges are key to our ability to replenish and transform the workforce,” Durbin said. “Colleges can make sure our workforce matches our needs as a state. I’m here today to listen to you and take the message back to policymakers in Washington.”

The apprentices shared their experiences in the programs with Durbin, praising the opportunity to learn new skills while maintaining a paycheck and benefits, as well as the ability to graduate debt-free. Harper apprentices and employees shared their excitement about continuing and expanding the college’s apprenticeship programs.