AURORA – Assistant Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes has helped secure $682,000 through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in grant funding for job training programs.

“DCEO’s Illinois Works Program provides initial skills training to acquaint kids with the construction and building trades in our area,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “Not all teens see themselves going to college, but they hope to see options for potentially high-earning careers. This field offers them a number of options.”

DCEO awarded $19 million in grant funding through the Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program to 38 organizations across the state. The purpose of the funding is to create more pathways for kids to access pre-apprenticeship programs and continue through registered apprenticeships, which provide greater opportunities to secure lifelong careers in the construction trades.

“This funding empowers organizations like SkillsUSA Illinois to expand our reach, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring more students gain access to hands-on, real-world experiences that bridge classroom learning with industry needs,” said SkillsUSA Illinois Executive Director Eric Hill. “Senator Holmes’ support of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program creates transformative opportunities for students in Kane County that will drive growth and excitement for the next generation.”

“Before I ran for office, I operated a remodeling construction business, and I know these are highly skilled, well-compensated and in-demand jobs,” Holmes said. “In our rapidly growing area, this is a meaningful investment in our future economy and workforce — an opportunity to keep our best and brightest close to home.”

The grants represent opportunities for students in Aurora, Batavia, Montgomery, North Aurora and Sugar Grove. You may read the full list of organizations receiving grant funding statewide here.