Juniors and seniors from Chicago Public Schools are participating in a series of career exploration events this spring, aimed at introducing them to hands-on occupations in the skilled trades. These events, organized in collaboration with City agencies, City Colleges of Chicago, labor unions, and corporate partners, are designed to provide approximately 1,600 students with information about training programs, internships, and potential careers in fields such as construction, plumbing, carpentry, and engineering.
“At CPS, our commitment goes beyond delivering a high-quality education. Our priority is to turn academic subjects into tangible pathways for future success,” said CPS’ Interim CEO/Superintendent Dr. Macquline King. “We are strategically helping students understand how what they learn in the classroom connects to real-world professions and opportunities. By working closely with colleges, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector partners, we strengthen the support system that guides students toward achievement.”
City Colleges of Chicago will use these events to introduce Career Launch Chicago (CLC) and its summer Aim to Launch (A2L) program. This initiative allows high school students to earn college credits in construction and advanced manufacturing while still enrolled at City Colleges of Chicago. The A2L program acts as an entry point for CLC’s Youth Apprenticeship opportunities by offering a structured pathway from career exploration through hands-on training to paid apprenticeships.
“Through this event and the Chicago Roadmap partnership, we are aligning to meet a critical workforce need, but more importantly, meeting the long-term goals of our students,” said Chancellor Juan Salgado of City Colleges of Chicago. “These skilled trades exploration events demonstrate what’s possible and ensure students can see themselves in these careers, access the training they need, and step confidently into jobs that strengthen both their futures and our city’s economy.”
The first fair took place at Plumbers Local 130 JAC Training Center with additional events planned throughout March and April focusing on various trades. Students attending can apply for bridge programs that help prepare them for apprenticeships or directly enter apprenticeship programs. During these sessions they receive detailed information about each trade as well as guidance on recruitment processes.
“This partnership is about opening doors for students and showing them that careers in the skilled trades are professional, high-tech, and full of opportunity,” said Anthony Rottman, Training Director for Plumbers’ Local 130. “By working directly with schools, we’re creating clear pathways from the classroom to rewarding careers, equipping students with in-demand skills, and building a strong pipeline of future professionals. Together we’re strengthening our local workforce supporting economic growth and investing in the long-term success of our community.”
Chicago Public Schools currently offers 34 Career and Technical Education pathways across more than 80 high schools throughout the city—including specialized programs focused on construction trades such as carpentry electricity welding HVAC systems—providing early college credit work experience industry certifications skills training relevant for high-demand sectors.
“Expanding students’ access to careers in the skilled trades isn’t just about offering another pathway it’s about preparing them for opportunities in high-demand fields,” said CPS Chief of College and Career Success Megan Hougard. “Our goal is to connect classroom learning to the real world so that every student sees how their education can lead to a meaningful career whether that’s in college an apprenticeship or a high-skill trade When we do that we open doors to stability purpose and community growth.”
