HIRE360 CELEBRATES FIRST GRADUATION, MARKING A NEW CHAPTER IN CHICAGO’S WORKFORCE PIPELINE

HIRE360 CELEBRATES FIRST GRADUATION, MARKING A NEW CHAPTER IN CHICAGO’S WORKFORCE PIPELINE

Fifteen graduates complete hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications to prepare for fast-growing energy careers

CHICAGO — HIRE360, with JPMorganChase, celebrated a major milestone for Chicago’s energy workforce with the graduation of the first cohort of the Clean Energy Construction Trades Pathway Program. Fifteen graduates were recognized during a ceremony at HIRE360’s Training and Business Development Center for completing a comprehensive program designed to prepare residents for in-demand careers in construction, building operations and renewable energy. The Clean Energy Construction Trades Pathway Program was made possible with support from JPMorganChase.

Through the Clean Energy Trades Pathway Program, participants received hands-on training in trades driving the energy economy, from solar installation to energy-efficient building operations, while earning multiple industry recognized certifications, including OSHA 30, Forklift Operation, GPRO Fundamentals of Building Green and the Fundamentals of Energy Efficient Building Operations certificate.

Participants also gained real-world field experience through technical training at Kankakee Community College, tours of union training centers including the Pipefitters, Sheet Metal Workers and IBEW Local 134, and visits to active job sites across the region.

“Today’s graduates are stepping into fast growing trade fields with the skills, preparation and confidence to succeed,” said Jay Rowell, Executive Director at HIRE360. “They have earned industry recognized certifications, gained hands-on experience and demonstrated a strong commitment to Chicago’s clean energy future. Programs like this ensure residents have meaningful pathways into family sustaining careers, while building the next generation of skilled workers who will help drive the region’s transition to cleaner, more efficient infrastructure.”

“As one of the city’s largest private employers, JPMorganChase is proud to support HIRE360 in expanding access to skilled trades and preparing Chicagoans for the jobs of the future,” said Matt Muench, Head of Careers and Skills at JPMorganChase. “Congratulations to the first cohort—by pursuing careers in energy and construction, you are driving innovation, meeting the demand for skilled professionals in these vital industries, and strengthening our community and economy.”

Family members, local stakeholders, union leaders and industry partners attended the event, which concluded with a certificate presentation and group photo.

HIRE360 will announce future opportunities to join upcoming training cohorts in early 2026.

Launched in January 2020, HIRE360 is an industry-led, community-focused nonprofit ensuring that our city’s future is inspired by all the communities that call Chicago home. Our “demand” driven approach to workforce development allows a direct connection with employers and unions to develop workforce recruitment and training programs that meet the specific and timely employment needs of the hospitality and construction sectors. As a workforce intermediary, we identify, recruit, skill up and help community members navigate the apprenticeship process. Our business development program creates wealth and career opportunities in Chicago’s communities by investing capital, time and mentorship to help Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises start, grow and thrive. Learn more at www.HIRE360Chicago.com.

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