State Senators Celina Villanueva and Mike Simmons secured over $551,000 for the Hispanic American Construction Association, under the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship programs. “Garnering funding to ensure equitable participation for constituents in the construction industry, while also promoting the growth, quality of work, professionalism and integrity of these individuals is something that is necessary in advancing the job force for women and minorities,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “We must make sure residents in underserved communities are getting the necessary resources they need to become successful in the workforce as we continue to fight for a more equitable state.” Many people today are still seeking safe and secure workforce opportunities that will allow them to live a sustainable life, while acquiring free training to be successful in the field. This funding will help combat this issue by intentionally providing misrepresented communities in Illinois with more accessible resources that will lead to more individuals becoming qualified to work in the construction industry, free of charge. . Information on the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program can be found at www.dceo.illinois.gov