LLCC expands offerings in Jacksonville and Beardstown
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By DAVID CAMPHOUSE
Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) is launching new educational opportunities in Jacksonville and Beardstown for the spring 2026 semester, offering both career-focused training and general education courses to meet the needs of local students and employers.
Beginning in January, LLCC-Jacksonville will introduce a hands-on industrial maintenance technician program designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in manufacturing and technology. The three-semester program will run weekdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at LLCC-Jacksonville, located at 32 N. Central Park Plaza. Students will receive training in electrical and mechanical systems, including precision measurement, calibration, vibration analysis, PLC programming, blueprint reading, and process controls.
Funding support is available for eligible students, including free tuition, tools, and books for the first semester.
“We’re excited to bring this opportunity to Jacksonville,” LLCC Western Region Director Keri Mason said in a release from the College. “This program is designed to meet the needs of our local workforce and provide students with the skills and support they need to launch a successful career in industrial maintenance.”
LLCC Workforce Institute Dean Dr. Nancy Sweet said that industrial maintenance and the manufacturing industry rely on skilled workers with the right training.
“Manufacturing blends science, technology and human ingenuity,” Sweet said in a press release. “Industrial maintenance techs are the people who keep these entire systems running.”
According to Dr. Sweet, entry-level technicians in the region typically earn between $22 and $29 per hour, with experienced professionals reaching annual salaries of $70,000 to $85,000. Students in the program will also benefit from LLCC’s strong employer connections, gaining networking opportunities from day one.
Meanwhile, LLCC-Beardstown is welcoming current and incoming students, including College Now high school participants and adult learners, to register for spring 2026 classes beginning October 15. Weekday classes start January 12.
In-person courses offered at LLCC-Beardstown include:
Public Speaking Fundamentals
Introduction to Literature
Introduction to American Politics
Introduction to Psychology
These offerings complement existing adult education programs at the Beardstown location.
“We are excited to continue expanding access to higher education in Beardstown,” Mason said. “These in-person classes provide valuable opportunities for students of all ages to learn, grow and achieve their academic and career goals close to home.”
To explore industrial tech training in Jacksonville, visit www.llcc.edu/industrial or contact Lori Large Oldenettel at [email protected] or 217-786-2457.
For information on LLCC-Beardstown courses and registration appointments, visit the LLCC-Beardstown web page.
