Hurley Highlights New Funding for Construction Apprenticeship Programs

CHICAGO – State Rep. Fran Hurley, Chicago, is encouraging local organizations in the construction industry to apply for $15 million in Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship funding to expand job training and career opportunities.

“As a representative, my job is to create a state economy that is fairer and open to everyone, and this funding is helping me fulfill that promise,” Hurley said. “By taking an honest look at the laws and procedures on the book, we can make real progress in not only understanding the kinds of obstacles people face but addressing them as well.”

Hurley voted to create the Illinois Works program in 2019, and passed a state budget this year dedicating $8 million in funding for new organizations that train, educate and help prospective workers navigate the job search process, and $7 million covering programs that currently receive funding but have exceeded performance benchmarks.

Hurley has a history of fighting for small businesses through her work as Committeemember of the Small Business, Tech Innovation and Entrepreneurship Committee.

“The key to our state’s economic dynamism is our ability to uplift workers and expand opportunity,” Hurley said. “I invite organizations in my community to apply for funding that can make a lasting change in people’s lives.”

For more information, visit https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/IllinoisWorks/Pages/PreApprenticeship.aspx.