State Senators Hold Virtual Workshop For Careers In The Trades

FRANKFORT, IL — State senators Michael Hastings, a Frankfort Democrat, and Patrick Joyce, an Essex Democrat, are partnering to hold a virtual workshop to encourage Illinoisans to pursue careers in the trades, according to a release from Hastings' office.

The virtual workshop will be held at 10:30 a.m. May 3. You can register online.

“Over the course of the past two decades we have seen an influx of qualified tradesmen and women into our workforce. More and more, young people are seeking alternatives to traditional higher education and are finding viable career paths through trades programs,” Hastings said in a release. “It is my hope that people of all ages can use this event to their advantage and learn more about the incredible opportunities available to them in this field.”

Attendees will learn about the skilled trades and find out how to join a union, as well as connect with apprenticeship directors and contractors, according to a release.

“A career in the trades gives a person the opportunity to gain experience and education, learn practical and useful skills, and avoid student loan debt,” Joyce said in a release. “With so many jobs in the trades in high demand, I encourage those looking for an alternative career path to sign up for this virtual event.”

Hastings and Joyce will host the event alongside CISCO/TREES/KARVES-KACC (Kankakee Area Career Center), Chicago Women in Trades, Illinois Works, Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, IBEW 134, IUOE 150, Pipefitters 597, SMART 265, Denk and Roche Construction, and PSI Construction.