Outreach Career Center

If you’re ready to rebuild your life after incarceration, Chicagoland Prison Outreach offers free intro to constructions trades.

Free Trades Training

Are you looking for a fresh start? Chicagoland Prison Outreach (CPO) offers free trade training with additional support for those who have been justice involved, equipping you with the skills needed to secure stable employment and support yourself and your family.

You’ll gain hands-on training in a felony-friendly trade, receive job readiness coaching, and grow spiritually as you build a new path forward. Our courses are available at our Roseland and Evanston locations.

Take the first step toward a new career and a new life. Click below to apply today!

Apply for the Program

The Program

We will run two programs this year.

Cohort 1: March 17th – July 4th

Cohort 2: July 21st – October 31st

Intro to Construction Trades program is a 12-week course designed to prepare you for union entrance exams and careers in the trades. A weekly stipend is provided to support you as you transition into a new career.

Throughout the program, students will receive hands-on training in one of the following: carpentry or welding, building the skills needed for success in the construction industry. In addition to technical training, participants will earn OSHA 10, NCCER Core, and CPR/First Aid certifications, making you workforce-ready and eligible to take the union exam.

Apply Now

Eligibility

To enroll in our FREE program, you must meet 4 requirements:

  • Must be formerly incarcerated
  • Illinois Resident at Least 18 Years Old
  • Possess A High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • Have an Interest in Construction & Building Trades

If you meet all 4 requirements and are interested in enrolling, apply today!

Apply Now

Formerly Incarcerated

Donec sed odio dui. Vivamus sagittis lacus vel augue laoreet rutrum faucibus dolor auctor.

Illinois Resident

Must be at Least 18 Years Old

Interest in Construction & Building Trades

Such as electrical, welding, and carpentry.

Supportive Services

At Chicagoland Prison Outreach (CPO), we are committed to supporting you beyond the classroom. As a participant in the Intro to Construction Trades program, you will have access to:

Female therapist speaking to male patient

Trauma Coaching

 

Certifications in NCCER/OSHA

 

First Aid

Female therapist speaking to male patient

Job Readiness classes

 

Hands on training

 

Stipends and comprehensive wraparound services are available.

Take the next step today!

At CPO, we are dedicated to ensuring every student has the tools, knowledge, and support needed to build a successful future.

Learn more about the program
View IL Works Flyer View Intro Classes Flyer

Ready to apply?

Apply for the program