Last week, ComEd and partners celebrated a new class of 73 graduates from the CONSTRUCT Infrastructure Academy and the Craft Academy job training programs, reaching more than 1,000 job seekers served by “Academy” job training programs since 2013. Designed to build the skilled and diverse talent pipeline needed to support the energy transformation in Illinois, these free programs prepare job seekers for entry-level positions that lead to rewarding careers in the construction and utility fields. ComEd Academy programming, including the Power Up Academy, a design- and engineering-focused job training program, is designed to grow the pool of qualified, diverse job candidates by providing adult participants the opportunity to earn industry-required certifications and receive testing preparation and hands-on experience. Together, these programs have placed more than 70 percent of participants in entry-level positions across ComEd and partner employers. Program graduates have reflected the vibrant communities of northern Illinois, with more than 95 percent being people of color and 25 percent being women. This year’s CONSTRUCT and Craft Academy class is no different; more than 90 percent are people of color and nearly 20 percent are women.

Photo Credit: ComEd