We Start with the Job
Our Mission
Stand as a life-changing employment resource by connecting underrepresented job seekers to employers with opportunities across industries.
Our Vision
To create a future where all job seekers—regardless of background—have equitable access to employment opportunities that lead to long-term financial stability. We envision a more inclusive job market that recognizes and values the potential of overlooked talent in Chicago and beyond.
Our Impact
We remove barriers to employment by bridging the gap between job seekers and employers, driving economic mobility in historically disinvested communities. Through direct hiring connections, advocacy for inclusive hiring practices, and community partnerships, we help job seekers secure stable employment that leads to upward mobility.
Meeting Job Seekers Where They Live
Over 70% of our applicants come from historically underserved neighborhoods on Chicago’s South and West Sides. To make good on our commitment to reduce barriers to employment and build access to economic opportunity, we launched Skills Neighborhood Link, an initiative to provide resources and one-on-one support from the Skills team in city neighborhoods. We opened our Englewood office in July 2021, a co-located space in North Lawndale (partnership with North Lawndale Employment Network) in April 2022, and another co-located space in Gage Park (partnership with PODER) in March 2023.
SKILLS BOARD CHAIRS
Manika Turnbull, Ph.d.
Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer
2024-Present
Mark Hoplamazian
President and Chief Executive Officer of Hyatt Hotels Corporation
2018-2024
Greg Brown
Chairman and CEO of Motorola Solutions
2015-2018
Glenn Tilton
Former Midwest Chairman of JPMorgan Chase & Co; Former Chairman of United Continental Holdings
2013-2015
Penny Pritzker
Founding Board Chair
Founder and Chairman of PSP Partners; Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce
2012-2013
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