SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner announced that four organizations in Springfield and Decatur have received funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship program.

"Growing diversity in the building trades is not just a Chicago priority — we are charging forward like never before with three programs between Decatur and Springfield," said Turner (D-Springfield). "Expanding the trades gives people a path to secure stable, good-paying careers in a high-demand industry.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded over $18 million in grants to 36 recipients through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Macon County, Richland Community College and Sista Girls and Friends received a combined total of nearly $2 million to create a diverse pool of talented and qualified candidates in construction and building trades.

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Pre-apprenticeship programs are comprehensive and help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provides a greater opportunity for obtaining employment in the trades and securing a lifelong career.

Visit DCEO’s website to learn more about the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship program.