The state of Illinois is launching an apprenticeship program aimed at strengthening the construction workforce in Will County. The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, developed in partnership between HIRE360, a workforce development nonprofit, and the Will County Executive Office, is set to begin on May 5. This program, funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, offers a nine-week training initiative designed to prepare individuals for entry into registered union apprenticeship programs.

Through the program, participants will receive structured training, industry-recognized certifications such as OSHA-10 and CPR, and participate in site visits to apprenticeship programs. The program also provides stipends during the training. Those who complete the program successfully will have the opportunity to earn additional free certifications.

"By combining classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and direct access to union apprenticeships, we're not just preparing people for jobs, we're setting them on a path to lifelong careers," said Jay Rowell, executive director of HIRE360. "Through industry-recognized certifications, skill-building, and strong relationships with contractors and mentors, participants leave this program ready to succeed."

The program is part of Illinois's broader initiative to support the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan, which aims to create job opportunities in the construction industry. The Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which has enrolled over 2,000 individuals since its launch in 2021, has seen about 80% of participants successfully complete the program, with more than half advancing into registered apprenticeships.

Doc Gregory, president of the Will & Grundy Counties Building Trades Council, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, saying, "We’re proud to collaborate with HIRE360 to prepare individuals for union careers by equipping them with practical skills and valuable certifications."

Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant expressed that this partnership would increase local access to training programs, providing a pathway to well-paying careers for residents. The program’s goal is to build a skilled and diverse talent pipeline for future job opportunities created by the state’s infrastructure investment.

The program is accepting applications from Illinois residents who are 18 or older and have a high school diploma, GED, or HiSET.

Originally reported by Judy Harvey in Shaw Local.