Pathways
A sequenced way forward.
A COD Pathway is a curated set of services placed in the right order — so a Chicago resident does not have to guess whether they should get a credential first, complete a background check, take an interview prep session, or start a business filing. Every pathway is supported by a real COD Case Manager, and each step feeds directly into the next.
Sequenced by design
Each pathway groups services in the exact order they should be completed. No wasted certifications, no dead-end coursework.
Case-manager supported
You are not walking a pathway alone. A COD Case Manager is assigned early and stays with you through the last step.
Barrier-aware
COD identifies fingerprinting, background checks, transportation, childcare, or funding barriers up front — not after you've already invested time.
Pathway families
Three tracks. One coordinated experience.
Healthcare
Direct-care and clinical support careers
CNA → PCT progression, Phlebotomy, EKG, Medical Coding & Billing, and Home Care Aide. Fingerprinting and background clearance are built into the pathway, not bolted on at the last minute.
Example flow
Career Navigation → CPR/BLS → Fingerprinting → Background Check → CNA → PCT
Business & contracting
From formation to government contracts
Business Formation → Capability Statements → Vendor Registration → Government Contract Accelerator → Procurement Readiness. Structured for Chicago entrepreneurs pursuing MBE/WBE/DBE work.
Example flow
Business Formation → Capability Statement → Vendor Registration → Government Contract Accelerator
Workforce
Job-ready credentials and placement
Workforce Readiness, Career Navigation, Resume Assistance, Interview Preparation, Food Handler, Food Manager, ServSafe Alcohol, and Job Placement. Includes optional Security PERC and CPR/BLS tracks.
Example flow
Workforce Readiness → Resume → Interview Prep → Credential (Food Handler / CPR) → Job Placement
Curated bundles
Ready-to-start pathways
CPR/BLS + First Aid + Fingerprinting + CNA + Healthcare Career Navigation — enter healthcare with the full stack.
Food Handler + Food Manager + ServSafe Alcohol — full food-service stack.
PERC Assistance + Fingerprinting + Background Checks + Security Training — ready-to-hire security stack.
Business Formation + Capability Statements + Vendor Registration + Procurement Readiness + Government Contract Accelerator.
Housing + Public Benefits + Behavioral Health + Community Resource Referrals — stabilize first, build from there.
Career Navigation + Resume + Interview Prep + Workforce Readiness + Job Placement.
How a pathway feels
Four things every COD pathway includes
- A named COD Case Manager assigned before your second step.
- A written Opportunity Plan you can revisit any time.
- Every prerequisite (background check, ID, fingerprinting) surfaced early.
- A confirmed employer, program, or referral at the end — not just a certificate.
Common questions
Pathway FAQ
How long does a pathway take?
It depends on the credential. Food Handler is same-week. CNA typically runs 6–8 weeks. Government Contract Accelerator prep is 8–12 weeks. Your Case Manager will confirm a realistic timeline based on prerequisites already in place.
Do I have to pay for the whole pathway upfront?
No. Many services are free for qualified participants; others are funded through workforce partners. Your Case Manager confirms cost tier before you commit to any step.
What if I fail a background check?
COD helps you understand what surfaced and whether pathways like Home Care Aide, business services, or Food Handler credentials are still viable. Many participants continue with a different pathway when clinical roles are blocked.
Can I switch pathways later?
Yes. Your Case Manager can rebuild your Opportunity Plan as circumstances change. Credentials you've already earned come with you.
Do employers know about COD pathways?
Yes. COD works directly with Chicago employers who recognize the pathway credentials and often reserve interview slots for COD participants.
I'm not sure which pathway fits.
Start with the Opportunity Navigator. A single conversation is enough to identify the right pathway family and a realistic first step.