On Tuesday, March 10, the East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades Council hosted an orientation for the newest cohort of its pre-apprenticeship program. The program is designed to provide training, mentorship, and support for individuals from underserved communities who are interested in pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Participants receive foundational instruction that prepares them to enter formal apprenticeship programs and begin long-term careers in construction and related fields.
Through the Champaign Apprenticeship Readiness Program, the City of Champaign is providing funding and supportive services for eligible participants who live in Champaign. The program aims to expand access to family-sustaining career pathways while helping meet the workforce needs of the region’s construction industry.
To help celebrate the launch of the new cohort, the Community Safety and Justice Division provided a meal for participants and instructors attending the orientation. Community Relations Manager Jorge Elvir and Community Relations Specialist Betsy Barclay attended the event alongside staff from Blueprint partner YouthBuild.
The orientation provided an opportunity for City staff and community partners to connect with participants in the Champaign Apprenticeship Readiness Program, learn about their goals, and share information about available resources. City representatives also emphasized the community’s commitment to supporting participants as they progress through the program and work toward successful careers in the skilled trades.