CHICAGO, Ill. — A new report highlights how investments in pre-apprenticeship programs are reshaping Illinois’ construction workforce, opening pathways for women and people of color at record levels.
The research, conducted by the nonpartisan Illinois Economic Policy Institute (ILEPI) and the Project for Middle Class Renewal at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, found that these short-term training initiatives are fueling a more diverse and inclusive skilled trades sector across the state.
Pre-apprenticeships—also known as apprenticeship readiness programs—typically span 8 to 14 weeks and equip participants with the foundational skills needed to secure long-term apprenticeships. The tuition-free programs are often supported through state and federal grants to community colleges or nonprofit organizations.
Training blends hands-on learning, classroom instruction, and career exposure, while many programs go further by offering wraparound services that address barriers such as childcare, transportation, and stipends. These services help participants—especially women and underrepresented workers—complete their training and transition into registered apprenticeships.
Researchers focused on two of the state’s largest efforts: the Highway Construction Careers Training Program and the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Both initiatives have become cornerstones in Illinois’ push to expand access to well-paying jobs in the trades.
According to the findings, women and people of color are now the fastest-growing groups in Illinois’ construction workforce, a trend directly linked to these targeted investments.
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The construction industry has long faced challenges with both labor shortages and representation gaps. By providing structured entry points and support systems, pre-apprenticeship programs are not only helping meet immediate workforce needs but also fostering long-term economic mobility.
Industry leaders say the shift could have far-reaching effects. Increased diversity not only helps contractors meet workforce goals on public projects but also strengthens the overall pipeline of skilled workers, ensuring Illinois remains competitive in infrastructure and development.
While the study underscores progress, researchers note that ongoing funding will be critical to maintaining momentum. The success of Illinois’ pre-apprenticeship programs demonstrates the importance of sustained investment in workforce training—particularly as federal infrastructure dollars flow into states and demand for skilled labor continues to grow.
With women and people of color entering the trades at record levels, Illinois is positioning itself as a national leader in workforce equity and inclusion within construction.
Originally reported by Illinois Economic Policy Institute (ILEPI) in For Construction Pros.
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