Formed in 2008, Opportunity Alliance of Illinois (OA) is funded entirely by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Employment Opportunities Grant Program (EOGP.) Its goal: to support apprentices that have been historically underrepresented in the building trades to overcome the obstacles to a successful career.

Working with several regional organizations dedicated to empowering female, minority, and at-risk job seekers, OA places apprentices with reputable employers, where they receive paid on-the-job training, and provides direct instruction at Painters District Council No. 30’s Aurora-based facility. Apprentices attend a full day of training every two weeks for three years.

Realizing Your Potential:

Once placed, qualified instructors train you in workplace safety and the skills of the finishing trades. Related subjects, such as basic math, blueprint reading, and labor history, are also included.

As a union craftsperson, you will earn between $14.92 and $18.91 an hour for the first year, and receive a raise each year until you graduate as a Journey worker. Once you graduate you will earn between $29.85 and $37.83 an hour as a Journey worker (increasing annually based on contract negotiations.)

Securing Your Health and Future:

Additionally, you and your family will quickly become eligible for health coverage, and your time in the Apprenticeship Program counts toward what can become and excellent pension for your retirement.

Individual Career Plan:

The key to your success will be an Individual Career Plan that assesses your support needs in the areas of:

• Career Planning and personal challenges
• Relocation and housing expenses
• Childcare expenses
• Transportation expenses
• Union Dues
• Other expenses and challenges related to your success in the trades

Once assessed, OA will arrange for appropriate grant funds to be issued to you during the funding period. Meanwhile, your skills, income and resources improve, and you are on your way to a career in the finishing trades.