Upwardly Global Launches a Licensing Information Website for Illinois Professions

Upwardly Global launches a licensing information website for Illinois professions, with upcoming expansion to other states: www.careersfornewamericans.org

Upwardly Global has developed a website in partnership with the State of Illinois that helps immigrant professionals understand the licensing process for these 10 careers that are regulated in Illinois:

• Accountant (CPA)
• Architect
• Civil Engineer
• Dentist
• Lawyer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Nurse (RN)
• Pharmacist
• Physician (MD)
• Teacher (K-12)

While pathways exist for immigrants with international professional experience to earn licenses in the US, the hurdles are significant, and begin with access to information. The state of Illinois, a national leader in immigrant integration, reached out to Upwardly Global to help connect to this untapped talent pool and encourage higher rates of licensing among skilled immigrants in the state.

As a result, the Careers for New Americans site offers information and advice for the entire career re-entry process, including foreign degree evaluation, supplementary coursework, tests and applications. It also offers special features such as video introductions, a career tips section, licensing cost and time scenarios, and resource boards for site users to share organizations and programs.

Careers for New Americans will expand to California, New York and New Jersey in coming months and we are looking for corporate, government and foundation support for this work. We hope to build the same strong collaborative relationships with other states that we have established in Illinois, so that we can bring this model to a national audience. Upwardly Global invites you to explore the site. We welcome your ideas and support as we work to build on this great resource for immigrant professionals and develop relationships with policymakers in various states.