KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce is encouraging people to apply for the fifth round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades.
“The trades are an essential part of any community,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This program strives to eliminate the obstacles keeping hard-working people from getting their foot in the door of vital industries.”
This round of $25 million in funding will increase the representation of underrepresented groups – including people of color, veterans and women in the construction trades. This round of Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program funding will fund up to 45 programs throughout the state including new grantees, serving nearly 2,000 residents.
Participants of the program attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other supportive, barrier reduction services, to help enter the construction industry. Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry aligned certifications, which will prepare and qualify them to continue to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades.
“These jobs will be around forever, it’s just a matter of making the opportunities accessible,” said Joyce. “I proud to support a program that strengthens the trades in the 40th District.”
Qualified entities can apply for grants between $150,000 to $550,000. Applications will be accepted until Aug. 31. To learn more and apply for the grant, visit DCEO’s website.
