OUR PROGRAMS

Moving Forward

Equipping individuals with essential skills in the high-growth industries of transportation, distribution, and logistics (TDL), green jobs, and entrepreneurship

Training for in-demand jobs

Moving Forward is a dynamic workforce training initiative designed to equip individuals with the skills and certifications needed to enter growing industries. This industry-recognized program is tailored for those seeking career pathways in transportation, distribution, logistics (TDL), automotive repair, and administrative excellence — sectors that offer long-term job stability and economic mobility.

Moving Forward participants must:

Be 18 years or older and a Chicago resident
Have a high school diploma or GED
Complete CASAS testing at the 9th grade level or higher in both Reading and Math
Commit to NLEN’s 16-week training program, including 10-day U-Turn Permitted
Have interest in the TDL sector, green jobs, or entrepreneurship
Be able to lift 100 pounds
Be compliant in a drug screening and background check (varies by employer)

GET STARTED

Ready to Move
Forward?

The first step in Moving Forward is to fill out the NLEN Interest Form to tell us a little about yourself.

Start your Interest Form

Program features

Career-pathway training in a rapidly growing sector

Through hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and direct-employer connections, Moving Forward prepares individuals for long-term careers in transportation, distribution, and logistics (TDL); automotive repair, and administrative excellence.

Enroll today

Job Readiness Training & Support

Essential training to help you succeed in your job search and in the workplace
Individualized job placement support and mentoring as you’re applying

TDL Permits & Certificates

Class-B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit with air brake endorsement
Automotive Service Excellence Beginner’s Certification
National Auto Parts Association Certification

Qualification for Jobs Across TDL

Bus or truck mechanic, or diesel engine specialist for Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
Mobile heavy equipment mechanics
Automotive mechanics
Farm equipment mechanics
Rail car repairers

Access to our Alumni Network

Connect with program graduates, NLEN mentors, and our entire network of supporters cheering you on toward success.

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) fair chance

For graduates of U-Turn Permitted

NLEN also offers placement into CTA’s fair chance Apprenticeship program. Through this program, graduates of U-Turn Permitted are eligible for 9-month apprenticeships as Rail or Bus Servicers. After your apprenticeship, you may become eligible for permanent employment at CTA, including union benefits.

To be eligible for the CTA Apprenticeship Program, you must first complete NLEN’s U-Turn Permitted program.

“The CTA has a great record of providing a fair chance to individuals in need and helping others find a pathway back into the workforce. Partners like NLEN make it possible to open doors and provide valuable training to build careers that can support Chicago families and benefit society at large.”

-Forrest Claypool, CTA President

Steps towards your
new career

Information Session Offered Mondays at 10 a.m. and Thursdays at 12 p.m. Learn more >
Interest Form & Personal Assessment Can be completed directly after information session
Moving Forward begins! Enroll with the next available training session
Program length Depends on the program training selected
Milestone Graduation Ceremony Invite your friends, family, and supporters to celebrate your new path!
Professional Headshot Complimentary at the time of your graduation

MOVING FORWARD

Life after the program

As a graduate of Moving Forward, you will always have access to NLEN’s services such as resume building, interview preparation, and effective job search strategies. Join us to gain the confidence and tools you need to secure your dream job.

Upon graduation, you’re eligible for a number of opportunities, including:

Priority access to job opportunities with NLEN’s employer partners in transportation, distribution, and logistics (TDL), automotive repair, and administration
Eligibility for CTA’s fair chance Apprentice Program for bus and rail mechanics
Enrollment in our WIOA Program, which provides dedicated support and training for in-demand employment certifications for emerging adults ages 18 to 24
One-on-one support from NLEN’s Career Solutions Specialists to help navigate job searches and professional growth
Continued financial coaching through the Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) to improve credit, build savings, and plan for financial success
Membership in the Moving Forward Alumni Fellowship for ongoing job leads and career support
Invitations to NLEN networking events, job fairs, and professional development workshops

Success stories