Avelar Highlights $8 Million Expansion in Apprenticeship Programs for Illinois Residents

BOLINGBROOK, Ill. – Continuing her support for local businesses and the workforce, state Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, is encouraging local residents to look into the newly expanded Illinois Apprenticeship Program.

“As Illinois re-opens following the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to make sure we are prioritizing helping the thousands of residents who lost their jobs during the shutdowns and make sure we are giving them the best possible chance to succeed going forward,” Avelar said. “With an $8 million expansion in apprenticeship programs, we are not only giving the residents of Illinois a chance to find good-paying jobs, but also giving businesses the workforce they need to succeed.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) recently announced an $8 million expansion in the Apprenticeship Illinois Program. The new funding will be able to support an additional 750 apprentices throughout key industries in Illinois, as well as expand the amount of businesses currently in the program. The new funding will prioritize industries that were disproportionately affected by the pandemic, like the service and entertainment industry as well as support underserved populations across Illinois. Businesses interested in an applying for the Illinois Apprenticeship Program can find an application on the Apprenticeship Illinois website, with a deadline of September 15 at 5:00 p.m.  Residents and employers seeking to join the Apprenticeship Illinois Program may visit the website ApprenticeshipIllinois.com to learn more and to find their local apprenticeship navigator.

“This program will give thousands of Illinois residents the opportunity to expand their knowledge and find a job that matches their interests,” continued Avelar. “I look forward to seeing the expansion of our workforce and the development of Illinois innovation.”