About

We're On A Mission

The Effingham Regional Career Academy is a public/private partnership providing skill development and building knowledge in agriculture, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing and transportation with focused curriculum that leads to a successful career.

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 Lake Land College 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 our students our saying.

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