Challenge Unlimited – Apprenticeship Program

At Challenge Unlimited, we are committed to creating meaningful opportunities that lead to long-term success. One important way we do this is through our Registered Apprenticeship Program, a proven pathway that helps individuals build skills, gain confidence, and grow in their careers.

During National Apprenticeship Week, held April 26 through May 2, Challenge Unlimited celebrated apprentices and program graduates at our Springfield GSA site and highlighted success stories from current employees and apprenticeship graduates.

Shane, a Crew Lead at GSA Springfield, helps maintain the building, complete inspections, and support daily janitorial operations. Since joining Challenge Unlimited, Shane has grown tremendously. Once quiet and reserved, he now communicates confidently, supports his team, and helps ensure tasks are completed correctly and quality standards are met. Shane enjoys the positive work environment, the tenants, and the supportive team members who helped him grow into his current role.

Nicole has been a dedicated member of Challenge Unlimited since 2021. After completing the Apprenticeship Program in 2024, she stepped into her part-time Janitor role at the GSA Springfield site, where she continues to shine. Nicole is known for her strong attention to detail, teamwork, and willingness to help others. She enjoys working at Challenge Unlimited because of the people she works with and the many skills she has learned along the way.

Challenge Unlimited also joined Illinois State Representative Amy Elik and Senator Erika Harriss during National Apprenticeship Week to share the impact of the program. Christy Wilkins, CU’s Operations Start-Up Manager, who oversees the Apprenticeship Program, and Steve, a longtime CU employee and apprenticeship graduate, met with the legislators at Representative Elik’s Alton office to discuss Steve’s apprenticeship journey and career growth.

“Challenge Unlimited’s Apprenticeship Program is an outstanding example of how businesses and non-profits can work together to encourage meaningful and impactful job opportunities for everyone,” said Representative Elik. “The dignity of a successful career is a fulfilling contribution that everyone can make, and the value of that service matters not just to the person, but to the employer and the community too.”

Steve has been part of Challenge Unlimited since 2003. He began his apprenticeship in 2019, graduated in 2020, and has since worked at both Scott Air Force Base and the GSA Alton–William Beatty Federal Building, where he currently serves as a custodian.

Through training, support, and opportunity, Challenge Unlimited’s Registered Apprenticeship Program continues to help employees build lasting careers, develop valuable skills, and discover new possibilities for their futures.

To learn more about the Registered Apprenticeship Program, please contact Catherine Klostermann at cklostermann@cuinc.org