Students in Central Illinois will have more opportunities to pursue careers in the construction and building trades, thanks to nearly $1 million in funding secured by State Senator Doris Turner.

The funding is part of a $19 million investment by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Aimed at expanding access to pre-apprenticeship and registered apprenticeship programs, the initiative supports hands-on learning and job training in high-demand industries.

Two local organizations in Turner’s district will benefit: the Menard-Sangamon Regional Office of Education #51 will receive $440,000, and the Illinois Foundation of SkillsUSA—serving Sangamon and Christian Counties—will receive $550,000.

SkillsUSA Illinois Executive Director Eric Hill praised the investment as “a transformative step toward equipping our youth with the skills and opportunities necessary for thriving careers in the trades.”

For a full list of organizations receiving grant funding, visit the Illinois DCEO website.