OAI, Inc.

05/15/2026

OAI is excited to partner with the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce for an upcoming CMISP event: Hiring Like a System: Practical Ways to Attract and Keep Talent.
Join us for a practical working session on how manufacturers can strengthen hiring, improve retention, and build stronger talent pipelines.
Thursday, May 28 | 7:30–9:15 AM
In-person in Park Forest or virtual option available.
Scan the QR code or click here to register:

04/29/2026

National Apprenticeship Week activities continuing at OAI. Staff sharing information about our Registered Apprenticeship Programs to employers and general public.

04/28/2026

OAI, Inc. Apprenticeship Week 2026 Proclamation

WHEREAS, OAI, Inc. is committed to advancing workforce development by providing skills training that leads to safe, meaningful employment; and

WHEREAS, apprenticeships offer a proven pathway for individuals to earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience and industry-recognized skills; and

WHEREAS, OAI, Inc. partners with employers, educators, and community organizations to expand apprenticeship opportunities in high-demand sectors such as clean energy, healthcare, and manufacturing; and

WHEREAS, these efforts promote equitable access to careers, strengthen local talent pipelines, and support economic mobility across the Chicagoland region;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that OAI, Inc. proudly recognizes Apprenticeship Week and reaffirms its commitment to expanding high-quality apprenticeship opportunities.

BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED, that OAI calls upon employer partners and stakeholders to support apprenticeships as a key driver of workforce and economic growth.

Signed,
Sandra Dafiaghor, PhD
Executive Director
OAI, Inc.

04/18/2026

The BEST Southworks Robotics Olympics Yet!

What an incredible day of innovation, teamwork, and pure energy at this year’s Southworks Robotics Olympics! From start to finish, our students brought their A-game—designing, building, and competing at the highest level.

Congratulations to our winning teams—your hard work, creativity, and determination truly stood out!

We also celebrate every school that competed—your participation made this event powerful and inspiring. To the coaches, parents, and families, thank you for the countless hours of support and encouragement that made this possible.

A huge thank you to our dedicated volunteers and generous funders—your commitment continues to open doors and create life-changing opportunities for our young people.
And a very special thank you to Toni Preckwinkle, President of Cook County, for kicking off the competition with an exciting countdown that set the tone for an unforgettable day!

Special shoutout to the incredible OAI team, led by Xiaofan Liu, Stephanie Po***ck Thompson, Catalina Sierra-Flores, and Board Chair, Mollie Dowling, for their leadership, coordination, and commitment to making this event a resounding success.

This event is more than a competition—it’s a glimpse into the future of innovation, leadership, and opportunity right here in our communities.

They built it. They battled. And they inspired us all!

04/10/2026

They Built It. Now They Battle!
Experience the energy, innovation, and competition of high school students at the Southworks Robotics Olympics. FREE. Open to ALL. Come ready to cheer!!

04/10/2026

They Built It. Now They Battle!
Experience the energy, innovation, and competition of high school students at the Southworks Robotics Olympics. FREE. Open to ALL. Come ready to cheer!!

04/10/2026

Join Us for the 8th Annual Southworks Engineering & Robotics Olympics! 🤖

Looking for something fun, exciting, and inspiring for the whole family? Come out and support local high school students as they compete, innovate, and showcase their STEM skills!

📅 Saturday, April 18
⏰ 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 South Suburban College Fieldhouse (South Holland, IL)

✨ What to Expect:
✔️ 19 local high school robotics teams
✔️ 6 exciting robotics competitions
✔️ Live DJ & interactive experiences
✔️ FREE lunch & FREE t-shirts (while supplies last!)
✔️ Family-friendly fun for all ages

🎉 BONUS: RAFFLES!
Don’t miss your chance to win:
💰 1 x $500 gift card
💰 2 x $250 gift cards

This is a great opportunity to support our youth, connect with the community, and experience STEM in action. Bring your family, invite your friends, and come cheer on the next generation of innovators!

👉 Free to attend — all are welcome!

04/10/2026

They Built It. Now They Battle! May the best bot win!

03/25/2026

We’re excited to share that OAI has been selected for the 2nd Digital Equity IMPACT cohort.

We’re honored to be part of this group of organizations working to improve digital access, digital literacy, and community connection across Suburban Cook County. This is an exciting opportunity, and we’re grateful to City Bureau and Cook County’s Digital Equity Initiative for the support.

We’re looking forward to the work ahead and the impact it will bring.

Building Careers. Changing Lives. We empower communities through skills training, job placement, and education, providing individuals with the tools to succeed in their careers. Get Started Learn More Empowering Communities, Fueling Success We focus on high-quality technical training and education t...

03/18/2026

Chicagoland LPN/RN Students: Final Semester & Unemployed? OAI Will Get You Across the Finish Line—Call Now! 708-283-5020

OAI is a Workforce Development non-profit headquartered in Chicago with a location in Park Forest, IL