# Illinois Funds Joliet Manufacturing Training

Illinois announced that Hyundai Translead plans to invest **$600 million** in Will County and create 3,750 full-time manufacturing jobs by adding a third shift to its planned operations. The state will also invest in a Manufacturing Training Academy at Joliet Junior College to expand advanced-manufacturing and welding training. The announcement identifies no solicitation or contract award, so it signals workforce-development activity rather than a current procurement opportunity.

- The academy is intended to expand training in advanced manufacturing and welding, supporting the workforce needs associated with Hyundai Translead’s planned operations.
- No contract value, solicitation, or procurement contact for academy implementation is identified; contractors should use state and college notices for any future implementation opportunities, as indicated in the announcement.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- State of Illinois
- Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)

### Vendors
- Hyundai Translead (Manufacturing investor and planned operator)

### Key Quotes
> This increased commitment will create more opportunities for working families, strengthen our manufacturing capabilities, and enhance our ability to serve customers.
> — Sean Kenney, CEO of Hyundai Translead

> Through our investment in Joliet Junior College, we’re expanding training opportunities for Illinoisans in advanced manufacturing while bolstering our world-class workforce.
> — JB Pritzker, Governor of Illinois

> The MTA will expand JJC’s ability to train industrial maintenance and advanced manufacturing technicians in addition to doubling their welding capacity.
> — Clyne G. H. Namuo, President of Joliet Junior College

### Sources
- [The State of Illinois Newsroom](https://gov-pritzker-newsroom.prezly.com/gov-pritzker-announces-hyundai-translead-to-create-3750-new-jobs-in-will-county) - IL