Chicago Heights Resource Center Gets Half Million For Apprentices

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — Bethel Family Resource Center will get a slice of a nearly $10 million funding program to encourage pre-apprenticeship programs across the south suburbs, Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) announced Friday.

In addition to Bethel, 22 other organizations will receive money from a $9.6 million award from the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act, a subset of funds from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois program.

"Pre-apprenticeship programs play a vital role in our skilled labor force," Joyce said in a news release. "This funding will provide opportunities for individuals looking to start a career in the trades."

Bethel Family Resource Center has more than 15 programs with many offering apprenticeship training. Construction and building trades typically employ full-time apprentices to complete the hands-on portion of their training in jobs such as electricians, carpenters and boilermakers.

Pre-apprenticeship programs create a set pathway for graduates to transition from classes to apprenticeships.

"Apprentice programs are extremely competitive," Joyce said. "Investment that directly provides more access into these programs is a step in the right direction."

More information on the Illinois Works program can be found here.