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Are you ready to start a career in construction or the building trades—but unsure where to begin? Whether you're fresh out of high school, exploring new career options, or eager to gain real skills that lead to lasting careers, there's an incredible opportunity starting this summer: the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

What Is It?

This free, 13-week program is designed to help Illinois residents successfully transition into Department of Labor-registered apprenticeships in the trades. Backed by the Illinois Works initiative and powered locally by Rincon Family Services, the program combines hands-on learning, certifications, and real-world guidance to get you job-ready.

Classes run Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, starting July 14, 2025, and are offered in three locations: Chicago, Berwyn/Cicero, and Kankakee.
Bonus: A new cohort begins every 3 months, so if you miss this round, another opportunity is just around the corner.

What You’ll Get

Participants benefit from:

• Classroom Instruction
• Wrap-Around Services (support beyond the classroom)
• Support Services
• Stipends to help with expenses
• Industry-Recognized Certifications in:
  • NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research)
  • OSHA safety
  • Flagger
  • First Aid/CPR

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You’ll also gain a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed in the trades—and get direct support in applying to union apprenticeships.

Who Can Apply?

To join, you must:

• Be 18 or older
• Have a high school diploma, GED, or HiSET
• Hold a valid driver’s license
• Be an Illinois resident

This program welcomes all adults 18+, with a special focus on supporting women, people of color, and veterans—groups that are often underrepresented in the trades.

Why This Matters

There’s never been a better time to enter the trades. Careers in construction and related industries offer stability, strong wages, and long-term growth. Unlike traditional college paths that can come with crushing debt, apprenticeship programs let you earn while you learn—and this pre-apprenticeship program gives you a head start.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’d love to work with my hands, but I don’t know where to start,” this is your moment.

🔗 Visit the Program Website to Learn More and Apply
📞 Call or Text: 312-918-2713
📧 Email: workforce@rinconfamilyservices.org

Collars: Backing the Future of the Trades

At Collars, we're more than just an app—we're a growing movement to elevate blue-collar careers and champion the next generation of tradespeople. We believe in real relationships, real opportunity, and real purpose.

Whether you’re getting started through a program like this one or looking to take your trade career further, Collars is here to connect you with the people and paths that move you forward.

📲 Join the Collars community and get early access to the app built for tradespeople—by joining our waitlist here.

Because your work matters. Your story matters. And your future? It starts now.

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