Dozens Graduate From Union Pre-Apprentice Program

A union training program recently saw 24 area residents graduate with skills that will prepare them for career success and give them an advantage when applying for careers with local trade unions and clean energy companies.

The HIRE360 East Central Illinois Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a 13-week pre-apprentice training program that began last year and has already seen dozens of participants secure union apprentice positions. Still others used their new workplace certifications, skills and relationships to begin careers in their chosen field.

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Champaign Mayor Deb Feinen served as keynote speaker at the Champaign graduation ceremony, while East Central Illinois AFL-CIO President Luther Baker provided keynote remarks at the Danville ceremony.

The program provides hands-on learning for participants – many who come from challenging circumstances like homelessness, poverty or incarceration. They learn skills and earn workplace certifications from union leaders, while visiting wind farms, solar farms and more. They also receive individualized mentorship and career guidance.

"We're proud to celebrate this group of graduates in Danville and everything they've accomplished through Climate Works," said Trina Taylor, CEJA Program Director at HIRE360. "They came into the program to learn about the trades and they're leaving ready to see where that knowledge can take them. Our work with the East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades Council is about helping people make that transition from training to apprenticeship and ultimately to sustainable careers in the trades."

Champaign graduates were Christoper Baker, Urbana; Raniya Beauregard, Champaign; Amari Clark-Crawford, Champaign; Haley Deverell, Urbana; Andre Grace, Mahomet; Scyon Harris, Champaign; Arnez Hopkins, Champaign; John Neville Kakunda, Champaign; Ashley Lofton, Urbana; Jacob Poole, Champaign; Pierre Saxon, Champaign; Jeffrey Trask, Urbana; Josiah Wilson, Champaign.

Andre Grace was honored for perfect attendance, while Christopher Baker, Haley Deverell, Andre Grace and Jeffrey Trask were named outstanding students in the class.

Those graduating from the Danville program were Paris Anderson, Demitirus Boens, Trey Brandon, S. Jon Coleman, Ladarrion Fultz, Elijah Green, Omekia Jones, Marlon Lee, Kiara Potts, Qentin Smtih II and Zyhmeis Wise, all of Danville.

Demitrius Boens was recognized for perfect attendance, while Trey Brandon and Kiara Potts were named outstanding students in the class.

Pre-apprentice classes run every three months. Those interested in applying for the 2027 classes can complete an application at www.builtunion.com.