Governor awards more than $17M through Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Grant funding supports the state’s continued effort to build a pipeline of talent and increase access to good-paying jobs for historically underrepresented populations

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) recently awarded more than $17 million in funding to 39 program recipients, serving up to nearly 2,000 community members statewide, to expand the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program creates a qualified talent pipeline of diverse candidates in the construction and building trades.

“Here in Illinois, we’re investing in our world-class workforce and creating opportunities for Illinoisans of all backgrounds to find well-paying jobs in construction and building trades,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Through the Illinois Works Program, we’re not just building our talent pipeline — we’re shaping careers. Thanks to these critical investments, we’re supporting our state’s in-house talent, pushing critical infrastructure projects forward, and boosting local economies across Illinois.”

“Illinois is one of the places to do business and this program is about making sure all Illinoisans have the opportunity to access these new opportunities,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. “Education and training are a powerful resource—we’re making sure this is available in every corner of the state.”

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity to obtain employment in the construction trades and secure a lifelong career.

“The continued success of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a testament to Illinois’ dedication to investing in hardworking Illinoisians from all backgrounds across the state,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “The Illinois Works Program is a prime example of the state’s commitment to advancing equitable economic development opportunities for Illinoisans.” ​ ​

Through Illinois Works, DCEO is expanding its statewide network of providers to recruit, prescreen, and provide pre-apprenticeship skills training. Equally important, the program providers offer structured pathways and manage the program graduates’ transition from the pre-apprenticeship program to a full apprenticeship program in construction and the building trades. ​

Participants of the program attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other support services to help enter the construction industry. Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry-aligned certifications, which prepare and qualify them to continue to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades.

“The Illinois Works Program has provided me with endless opportunities within the trades,” said Illinois Works Program Graduate Adrielle “Apple” Lockett. “After completing the Women Build Illinois Program, I’ve gained tangible skills and built integral relationships within the industry, creating a career I hope will serve as an inspiration to others.”

“Completing the Women Build Illinois program has not only allowed me to build a successful career within the trades, but also continue my mother’s legacy in the trades,” said Illinois Works Program Graduate Jordan Davis. “Becoming a journeywoman has always been my goal and through the support of the Illinois Works Program, I’ve been able to make it a reality.”

Signed into law in 2019, the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act is designed to promote diversity, inclusion, and use of apprentices in state-funded capital projects. The Act created three major programs: the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, the Illinois Works Apprenticeship Initiative, and the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program. Together these three programs aim to create a talent pipeline of skilled and diverse candidates to fill new job opportunities created by the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan.

“The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program is essential to expanding opportunities for individuals in the construction trades,” said Senator Christopher Belt (D – East St. Louis). “I’m thrilled to see the continued success of this program and its critical impact on Illinoisians, particularly those from communities historically underrepresented in the trades.” ​

“Through programs like the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, the state has created pipeline of diverse talent within the trade industry,” said Senator Cristina Castro (D – Elgin).“These apprenticeship programs provide a range of opportunities and a pathway to a long-term career for the next generation of Illinoisans.”