HIRE360 CELEBRATES SECOND COOK COUNTY ILLINOIS WORKS PRE-APPRENTICESHIP GRADUATING CLASS

HIRE360 CELEBRATES SECOND COOK COUNTY ILLINOIS WORKS PRE-APPRENTICESHIP GRADUATING CLASS

Illinois Works Graduates Take Next Step Toward Union Careers in the Building Trades

CHICAGO, IL — HIRE360, in partnership with the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, celebrated the graduation of its second Cook County cohort, marking another milestone in building a stronger pipeline into union careers in construction and clean energy. Participants earned industry-recognized certifications such as OSHA-10 and CPR, while gaining hands-on training and career readiness support.

The graduation was held at the HIRE360 Training Center, bringing together contractors, labor leaders, elected officials, members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus and community partners to honor the 25 graduates who completed the rigorous nine-week program. The day’s program included a contractor roundtable, a discussion on progress under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) with the Chicago Jobs Initiative and Illinois AFL-CIO, and a tour of the HIRE360 facility. The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of the graduates with remarks from Illinois House Speaker Emanuel ‘Chris’ Welch, followed by a procession and presentation of certificates.

“Each graduate represents the future of Chicago’s union workforce,” said Jay Rowell, Executive Director of HIRE360. “Through Illinois Works and our partners, we’re breaking down barriers and opening pathways to careers that not only sustain families but also strengthen our communities.”

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, funded through the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act, is a cornerstone of Governor Pritzker’s $45 billion capital infrastructure plan. The initiative is designed to expand opportunities within the construction workforce by recruiting, training, and supporting candidates from historically underrepresented communities.

“Today’s graduates are proof that Illinois Works is creating real pathways into family-sustaining union careers. They are building their own futures while helping to build a stronger Illinois. I’m proud to stand with HIRE360 and our labor and community partners to celebrate their success,” said Illinois House Speaker Emanuel ‘Chris’ Welch.

HIRE360 continues to recruit candidates for upcoming Illinois Works cohorts in Cook County. Interested individuals can learn more and apply here.

 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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