The Prologis Community Workforce Initiative (CWI) continues to gain momentum with programs rolling out in new cities nationwide. Announced just in September 2018 with its inaugural launch in Los Angeles, CWI is now in Chicago and later this month, Miami. Known locally in Chicago as “Propel by Prologis,” the job readiness program is a partnership with the Quad County Urban League. Prologis and our CWI partners in each city are committed to expanding work-based learning opportunities for those interested in careers in logistics, distribution and transportation.
“Propel by Prologis” is Prologis CWI’s first initiative in Chicago. The Quad County Urban League, established in 1975 to address the need for job training, equal access to employment and the educational enrichment of primarily low-income and minority citizens, designed the three-week program to prepare candidates with hands-on training for positions in material handling, inventory management, logistics and customer service. The curriculum, which includes input from Prologis’ employees and customers, also incorporates job shadowing opportunities, employability skills development and financial literacy workshops. The first class of students graduated today, as part of the inaugural cohort of “Propel by Prologis.” Prologis plans to continue CWI programming in Chicago later this year.
“As more of our customers face a hiring gap in the logistics industry, Prologis recognizes the important role job training programs play in building a qualified, diverse workforce,” said Edward S. Nekritz, chief legal officer, Prologis. “The collaboration between Prologis and organizations like the Quad County Urban League provides individuals with an opportunity to gain critical skills in high-demand sectors while furthering economic growth at a local level.”
“We have enjoyed this collaborative effort with Prologis in developing a job-readiness program called ‘Propel by Prologis,’” said Theodia Gillespie, president and CEO of the Quad County Urban League. “The synergy created by this newest partnership has the potential to make a tremendous socioeconomic impact on the individuals and communities which we serve.”
Prologis CWI is an extension of the company’s commitment to deliver superior customer service while strengthening local communities. Through its global footprint, Prologis helps its customers address labor needs by collaborating with local workforce programs to foster meaningful career pathways for people interested in logistics, distribution and transportation—sectors currently experiencing a significant shortage of skilled workers.
