The Aspire Center is Now Open!

5500 W Madison Street
Chicago, IL 60644

Aspire Center building front
Who We Are

Empowering Austin Through Workforce Collaboration

The Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation is a seamless and collaborative hub for high-performing workforce training and wealth-building programs. The development of the Aspire Center represents a long-term investment in the people of Austin — it transforms the shuttered Emmet Elementary School into a state-of-the-art, multi-use facility where organizations will provide services to residents, community leaders, and industry employers.

As a model for community-driven growth, we are here to provide critical resources that address local needs and foster economic mobility. Our team uplifts residents by offering access to essential services and resources in a central location.

The Aspire Advantage

Bringing Austin’s Workforce Together

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Individuals

Residents can access training programs, support services, and counseling directly on site through Jane Addams Resource Corporation, Westside Health Authority, Austin Coming Together, BMO, and more.

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Community Organizations

Our indoor and outdoor public spaces are open for community members to gather together in open seating and private conference rooms across our plaza, triple-height lobby, and roof terrace.

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Industry Partners

Industry partners have direct access to Austin’s workforce development programs with concentrated initiatives under one roof.

Our Approach

Meeting people where they are

We provide a place where people can imagine beyond barriers, develop creative approaches and solutions for equitable wealth creation in Austin, and become economically empowered residents – combatting the legacy of disinvestment, limited training opportunities, and fragmented services in Austin.

We support residents in need of immediate services to ensure stability and best prepare them for success in the workplace

We motivate residents to continue on their own path of financial freedom, encouraging Austinites to thrive in our community long-term

Our Impact

Our holistic approach provides a comprehensive scope of services to our participants

The Aspire Center tenants manage a broad network of service providers committed to supporting and amplifying Austin residents’ quality of life. Our strategic coordination of intake and referrals ensures participants are most effectively accessing the services available to them.

Our Services

  • Recruitment, intake, and coordination for workforce development programs
  • Workforce skills training in high-demand economic sectors
  • Job placement and ongoing retention support
  • Financial literacy counseling and training
  • Legal support services
  • Small business and entrepreneurship support

We’re Hiring – Come Work With Us!

Ready to bring your talents to a team that values creativity, collaboration, and making things happen? We’re on the lookout for sharp minds and bold spirits to join our growing crew. If you’re passionate about what you do and want to be part of something exciting, we’d love to meet you. Let’s build something great—together.