A New Coach for Career Growth at KCC

Cesar Avalos has stepped into a key role at Kankakee Community College, leading the department that helps people learn new skills and grow in their jobs. He will guide training programs that are tailored to the needs of local businesses, and he will work closely with employers to make sure students gain practical abilities. Before this job, Avalos spent two decades shaping strategies and building teams in fields like talent search, career advice, and community outreach. He earned a degree in human resource management from American Military University System and served in the U. S. Army, experiences that sharpened his leadership and planning skills.At KCC, he was already involved in work‑based learning. He helped students connect classroom lessons with real workplace tasks and managed career services that support job seekers. The Continuing Education and Business Partnerships office reaches about 1, 500 people each year. Its courses cover health care, social services, and education, offering credits that count toward professional development. Students can also earn industry certificates such as CPR for healthcare providers or Food Safety Manager, which are recognized by employers. Avalos’s appointment signals KCC’s focus on linking education with local industry needs. By coordinating with businesses, he hopes to boost the skill set of the region’s workforce and create more opportunities for students.