Urbana leaders and labor unions partner for hiring expo this Sunday


JAC Local 149 instructor Jusine McMullen talks to high school students during an open house last November. Teamed up with Urbana community leaders, the local will host a hiring expo this Sunday for apprenticeships and other career opportunities at the Union Hall located in Savoy.

Photo: PhotoNews Media

SAVOY - The East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades Council is teaming up with Urbana mayoral candidate DeShawn Williams and City Councilwoman Chaundra Bishop to bring career opportunities to members of the community. The trio have joined forces to provide information and application guidance to those interested in a career with area unions.

Visit the hiring expo set for 3 pm Sunday at UA Local 149, 1003 N. Dunlap Ave. in Savoy. There will be 20 local labor unions under one roof, offering opportunities that could change your life. Whether you are a seasoned pro or looking to kickstart your career, there is a place for you.

"This hiring expo is yet another step toward doing all we can to open our doors to as many people as possible," said Kevin Sage, President of the Building Trades. "It’s important that we create opportunities for everyone to have a chance to earn high wages, great benefits, and to work in safe conditions. Our unions promise all of that."

From plumbers to electricians, carpenters to laborers, unions provided guaranteed wages, with many starting at $22 an hour and soaring over $77 after five years of on-the-job training. That is in addition to leading benefits, including free healthcare and early retirement plans.

This is the second hiring fair that Williams has co-sponsored with the Building Trades.

"This is an opportunity to discover the transformative power of union trades," Williams said. "It’s not just a career, it’s a path to stability, fair wages, and a stronger community."