GRAYSLAKE — State Senator Mary Edly-Allen celebrated a $550,000 investment that will strengthen Lewis University’s Grayslake General Construction pre-apprenticeship program, helping Lake County residents access hands-on training and pathways into high-demand construction careers.

“Investing in pre-apprenticeship programs means investing in our local workforce,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “This funding will help Lewis University equip students with real-world skills, connect them to good-paying jobs, and meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the construction and building trades.”

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity to obtain employment in the construction trades and secure a lifelong career.

The purpose of the funding is to create more pathways for kids to access pre-apprenticeship programs and registered apprenticeships, which provide greater opportunities to secure lifelong careers in the construction trades.

Click here to learn more about the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.