Education and Training

At the Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County we know the importance of a high quality workforce. With over 20 educational and vocational institutions, millions invested in an Agriculture Academy, and closely located to the world renowned University of Illinois, it’s no surprise why Decatur was named top in the nation for Agriculture and BioScience employment and for a thriving Agricultural economy. 

Watch the video to learn more about our education systems, and click here to learn more about our workforce.

The Decatur and Macon County area has a variety of educational institutions and programs, including 72 Agricultural Education & FFA Chapters in our region.

Some of our top programs include:

  1. Richland Community College: EnRich Program and the Highway Construction Trade Program 
  2. Decatur Public Schools: Inspired Futures Internship Program
  3. The Prep Academy with Decatur Public Schools and Richland Community College
  4. The Dwayne O. Andreas Ag Academy 
  5. The Heartland Technical Academy

Richland Community College is one of 21 community colleges in the state working to pair skilled and experienced workers with existing and open positions in the field of manufacturing. Their program offers certificate and associate degree programs in:

  • Precision Machining
  • Metal Fabrication
  • Mechatronics
  • Green Renewable Energy

They also offer Articulated 2+2 Degree Programs in areas such as Supply Chain Management, in partnership with Western Illinois University.

Vocational schools, community colleges, and 4-year universities are also found regionally, within a 1-hour drive.

Vocational

Community College

4-Year University