Union Bridge Program

The goal of the Union Bridge Program is to expand the participation of historically underrepresented populations in the building trades by helping them enter apprenticeship and achieve journey-level status within the unions. As with entry to most labor unions, Union Bridge candidates must have a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED).

Carlos Hinojosa, Union Bridge 2010 Candidate, works on a project in Zion, IL.

Candidates in the program receive both on-the job training and classroom instruction in a trade such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, drywall repair, or maintenance & repair. At the end of the 20 week program, candidates will have accumulated over 600 hours of training.

The Union Bridge program not only helps cultivate technical skills, but opens doors to opportunities and increases the diversity within labor unions. It also creates a strong pipeline of skilled young workers who will get and keep jobs within the trades.

The YouthBuild Lake County Staff coordinates all training and program activities including career development, technical skills training, and case management.  The program offers additional support services including stipends for candidates, childcare, transportation, tools and work clothes.

This program is funded by: