Skokie, Ill. (Sept. 29, 2026) — From moving goods to producing key materials and technology, transportation, distribution, logistics and manufacturing are critical to keeping communities and businesses moving. Oakton College will bring these career pathways to life during its Transportation, Distribution, Logistics (TDL) and Manufacturing Career Exploration and Job Fair Thursday, Oct. 8.
Hosted in partnership with National Able Network, the event will take place from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Oakton’s Ray Hartstein Campus, 7701 Lincoln Ave., Skokie. Bringing together over 25 local employers and workforce organizations, the fair will allow attendees to connect with industry professionals, learn about current job openings and explore education and training options in TDL and manufacturing.
Careers include operational roles such as truck drivers, warehouse workers, forklift operators, bus drivers, material movers and dispatchers; production and skilled trades positions such as assemblers, machine operators, welders, CNC machinists and maintenance technicians; and managerial and analytical careers in logistics, supply chain management, procurement and distribution.
Participating employers and organizations will offer a firsthand look at these careers, including the skills, technology and day-to-day responsibilities involved. Attendees can learn what employers are looking for, explore the qualifications and training needed and discover ways to enter or advance within these industries.
Employers will also share information about apprenticeships, internships, paid training, on-the-job training and other work-based learning opportunities that can provide valuable experience and lead to employment.
Attendees will also tour Oakton’s manufacturing classrooms and training facilities and see where students develop hands-on workplace skills. Tours will showcase Oakton's degree and certificate programs and pathways that prepare students for careers in manufacturing and related fields. In addition, Atlas Toyota, Oakton’s training partner, will bring the action to life with a live forklift demonstration, giving attendees an up-close look at the equipment and skills used on the job.
Whether looking for a job now, considering a career change or exploring education and training options, attendees can connect directly with employers and discover their next step. Register today via Eventbrite.