Urbana Leaders, Labor Unions Partner For Hiring Expo

The East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades Council is partnering with Urbana leaders DeShawn Williams and City Councilwoman Chaundra Bishop to provide information and application guidance to those interested in a career with area unions.

A hiring expo is set for 3pm Sunday at UA Local 149, 1003 N. Dunlap Ave. in Savoy. Twenty local labor unions will be represented, some with immediate opportunities for experienced workers and others currently accepting applications for apprentice classes.

“This hiring expo is yet another step toward doing all we can to open our doors to as many people as possible,” said Kevin Sage, President of the Building Trades. “It’s important that we create opportunities for everyone to have a chance to earn high wages, great benefits and to work in safe conditions. Our unions promise all of that.”

From plumbers to electricians, carpenters to laborers, unions provided guaranteed wages, with many starting at $22 an hour, building to a total hourly package over $77 after five years of on-the-job training. That’s in addition to leading benefits, including free healthcare and early retirement plans.

This marks the second hiring fair that Williams has sponsored with the Building Trades.

“This is an opportunity to discover the transformative power of union trades,” Williams said. “It’s not just a career, it’s a path to stability, fair wages and a stronger community.”