CHICAGO — As Illinois doubles down on efforts to grow a skilled construction workforce, State Senator Robert Peters was pleased to help HIRE360 of Cook County secure $550,000 to prepare local residents for careers in the construction and building trades.

“Strong apprenticeships are the foundation of a strong workforce,” said Peters (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Labor Committee. “This investment will give more Illinoisans the tools they need to start careers in the trades and help meet the demands of a growing industry.”  

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded $19 million in grant funding through the Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program to 38 organizations across the state. The purpose of the funding is to create more pathways for kids to access pre-apprenticeship programs and registered apprenticeships, which provide greater opportunities to secure lifelong careers in the construction trades.

“The governor and the legislature are committed to investing in workforce training to ensure Illinois residents gain the skills needed for stable, middle-class careers,” said Jay Rowell, Executive Director of HIRE360. “Senator Peters has been a steadfast advocate for programs like Illinois Works, which empower organizations like HIRE360 to train and support the next generation of union construction workers.” 

To see a full list of organizations receiving grant funding across the state, click here.