About

We're On A Mission

ERCF courses empower both high school students and current professionals with hands-on learning opportunities in key fields, preparing them to build successful careers locally. Our mission is to equip the region with a highly skilled workforce, enabling individuals to pursue their chosen fields without the need to relocate. The Explore course, introduces students to local career pathways through blending classroom learning with practical business and industry experience.

ERCA Strives to:
1

Empower Through Education

To provide opportunities for high school students, adult learners and incumbent workers who desire real-world opportunities, hands-on learning and a relevant curriculum that can be put to immediate use, to enter higher education for further skill development or to advance in their career within their current job placement.

2

Strengthen Workforce Development

To create innovative and dynamic programs that bring students, job creators and the community together to create connections and grow the regional economy.

3

Foster Community and Business Growth

To provide opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials and college credits.

The Benefits of an ERCA Education

Direct Link to Employers

Connect directly with employers seeking skilled workers, benefiting from ERCA’s strong partnerships with local businesses to secure real-world job opportunities.

Access to Industry-Specific Credentials

Earn valuable, recognized credentials through virtual labs and dual credit courses, enhancing employability and career advancement in your chosen field.

Expanded Career and Technical Skills

Gain essential technical skills for high-demand industries through tailored education, preparing for immediate employment or further education opportunities.

Adaptive and Flexible Training Spaces

Learn in cutting-edge, flexible training environments that adapt to changing industry needs, ensuring your education remains relevant and forward-looking.

Establish Career Pathways

Navigate through clear, structured career pathways that support seamless transition from education to high-demand jobs, for students to incumbent workers.

Regional Map

Who We Serve

ERCA will be housed in the Effingham Technology Center with classes beginning Spring 2025. Fourteen school districts will be participating including:

  • Altamont
  • Beecher City
  • Dieterich
  • Effingham
  • St. Anthony
  • Teutopolis
  • North Clay
  • Cumberland
  • Neoga
  • Brownstown
  • St. Elmo
  • Newton
  • Cowden-Herrick
  • Stewardson-Strasburg

If your school district is interested in joining our program, please Contact Us.

Learn more about the Effingham Regional Career Foundation, 501(c)3 Organization that governs ERCA by clicking here.

Testimonials

Hear what the region has to say.

I enrolled in Explore so I could make sure that Ag Business was my career interest. This class has already taught me so many things that will help me solidify my dream career.

Colby Koester

Explore Student

I signed up for the Explore Program as a way to make connections and new friends. Explore is a way to meet people and help hone ideas for what I want to do for a career. I also love the ability to talk to people and put myself out there. This class has taught me so much about making connections and the value of long lasting relationships.

Bryce Worman

Explore Student

I had a vague idea of what career I wanted to pursue after high school, but I wasn’t completely sure if I wanted to go into that field ERCA and Explore have opened me up to jobs that are available in our area. It has also showed me some valuable employment skills, while giving me a chance to network with local businesses.

Melissa Brummer

Explore Student

I was overwhelmed with all of my options. I took the Explore class to try to help me rule out some of these options. Through ERCA, we have also learned many valuable work skills such as how to participate in an interview, how to manage stress, how to give a presentation, and how to write a resume. Overall, this class is a great opportunity for all high school students.

Margaret Wente

explore student

This class taught me to grow and create a network with many people. My heart is still set on being a vet, but this class open my eyes to see what other careers are available.

Hailey Willenborg

Explore Student

As a representative of the manufacturing sector (Siemer Milling Company) and as someone who has benefited from targeted training for specific skill sets throughout my career, I can bring these experiences and knowledge to the ERCF Board.

With automated processes continuing to be more common within the manufacturing sector and being accelerated with the tight labor market, it is crucial to have educational and training opportunities for current employees as well as future employees to support industry in our area.

Dave Jansen

ERCF Board of Directors

The Effingham area has done a great job of offering excellent career education and awareness to high school students. ERCA will have a tremendous impact on further advancing opportunities for students to engage in learning!

As a ERCF Board Member, it’s important to me that we create authentic learning opportunities and increase student engagement, drive opportunities for individual students and ultimately create better communities!

Greg Fearday

ERCF Board of Directors