A Pathway for All Students

There are many paths to a successful, professional future. Let CCSI help you find yours.

At the Career Center of Southern Illinois, we strive to help each student find their pathway to success, through top-notch academic and technical programming, real world experiences and community connections to his or her chosen field.

We recognize that today’s students are looking for more than just your “typical” educational experience. They want practical, specialized learning and hands-on opportunities that give them a leg up when pursuing their given career.

WHY CCSI

With high-quality instruction and professional partnerships in the community, we equip our students with all of the tools they need for a career in nursing or the trades. We also provide valued alternative educational solutions for at-risk students. Thousands of graduates now in the working world can attest: CCSI is the smart choice for career-minded individuals.

Career Training At CCSI

Nurses

Welders

Law Enforcement Officers

Automotive Service Technicians

Child Care Workers

Fun Facts

A CCSI welding student who starts as a junior has the opportunity to complete two years of dual credit in our program, then only needs one more class through SWIC to earn their initial certificate. Many students choose to take that class in the evening during the second semester of their senior year and then graduate high school with their certificate in hand!

A Snapshot of Our Successes...

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school districts served in three counties.

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national qualifiers produced by Skills USA in the past two years.

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state qualifiers produced by Skills USA in the past two years.

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of CCSI's alternative school students graduate.

$0 per hour

is paid to CCSI apprentices.

“CCSI was our last hope for our son, and he has exceeded all of our expectations. The programs there allowed him to develop both his technical and academic skills in a positive environment. . .Since attending CCSI we have seen him develop and mature into a very responsible young man. Not only does he have a positive future ahead of him, CCSI has made him realize how important it is to continue with his education.”

Kristy Atwater, Accounting Manager, St. Louis Blues
Parent of a CCSI Alternative Education Student

“The administration and staff at CCSI are absolutely amazing. They have the ability to adapt and interact with each student on an individual basis which brings out each student’s individual skills and maximizes their potential. We have never seen (our son) with such a positive attitude and outlook on life. While I don’t want to exclude any teachers, we feel that the HVAC teacher Mr. Harmsen has been a key factor in his success – not only as a teacher but also as a mentor.”

Kristy Atwater, Accounting Manager, St. Louis Blues
Parent of a CCSI Alternative Education Student

“When I attended parent teacher conferences I came away very impressed with the educators at CCSI. I knew my son was succeeding in school, and in my face-to-face meetings with his teachers my feelings were confirmed that he was in a good place. As a teacher, I was very pleased with the care and concern they have for my son, and I proudly share that with my teaching peers.”

Cindy Busby, Teacher, Valmeyer School District
Parent of a CCSI Alternative Education Student

“I wish the public was more aware of the educational significance CCSI offers all students. Stereotypes and perception cloud the true merits of what the school is accomplishing. The importance and necessity of this program is vital in reaching all educational needs. More people need to know that their kids can be well served by the staff and programs at CCSI.”

Cindy Busby, Teacher, Valmeyer School District
Parent of a CCSI Alternative Education Student

Mission

The mission of the Career Center of Southern Illinois is to provide integrated and relevant career and technical education, as well as employability and academic skills for junior and senior students from area high schools, for adults from surrounding communities, and for “at risk” students. We believe that learning must take place in a nurturing, safe environment that recognizes the diversity of individuals while promoting equity for all.