27 Graduates Complete Workforce Training Program Preparing Illinois Residents for Union Construction Careers and Major Infrastructure Projects
HIRE360 marked a major milestone in workforce development with the graduation of the Cook County cohort of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, reinforcing efforts to connect residents to long-term careers in the union building trades.
The ceremony, held at HIRE360’s Training and Business Development Center, brought together elected officials, labor leaders, contractors, and community partners to celebrate 27 graduates who completed the program’s intensive nine-week training. Among those in attendance was 16th Ward Alderman Stephanie D. Coleman, who came out in support of participants from her ward.
The program equips participants with the tools needed to enter registered apprenticeships in construction, combining hands-on training, career readiness support, and exposure to multiple union trades. Graduates leave with industry-recognized certifications, including MC3, OSHA 10, First Aid, and CPR.
Funded through the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act under Governor J.B. Pritzker’s capital infrastructure plan, the initiative is designed to expand access to construction careers while helping meet growing workforce demands tied to major infrastructure, development, and clean energy projects across Illinois.
By connecting trainees directly with contractors and apprenticeship pathways, HIRE360 and its partners aim to create sustainable career opportunities while strengthening the region’s skilled labor pipeline.
