Highway Construction Careers Training Program

The goal of the Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) is to increase the number of minorities, women and disadvantaged individuals working in the construction trades.

Overview of the Program

Math for the Trades

Math curriculum will focus on the fundamental concepts of basic numeric skills, measurement and conversion, algebra and geometry. The math concepts will be supported with practical applications, on the job problem solving, and job related tasks through communication.

Job Readiness Training

The job readiness curriculum is designed to add to the overall success in a work environment. The workers of the future need skills that will allow them to communicate effectively with team members as well as adapt to a diverse workplace.

Students will create action plans with benchmarks during this course and will be evaluated in the following areas:

  • Attendance and Punctuality
  • Attitude
  • Fundamental Job Skills
  • Interviewing Techniques
  • Job ready attire consultation
  • Motivation and Self-esteem
  • Personal Budgeting
  • Resume Preparation
  • Teamwork and Conflict Resolution

Program will include special speakers and field trips from area IDOT contractors and trade unions

Technical Skills Training

The technical skills curriculum will allow students to practice the principles learned in the classroom portion of the program. This part of the program will include tool usage, blueprint reading, labor extensive community service projects throughout the community, and hands-on activities at various trade unions. Participating unions include: Laborers, Carpenters, Cement Masons, Electricians, Bricklayers, Sheet Metal Workers, Operating Engineers, Painters, Steamfitters, Sprinklerfitters and Plumbers.

Participant Benefits

  • Basic hand tools
  • Work boots
  • First aid/CPR certification
  • OSHA-10 certification
  • Forklift and aerial lift certification
  • Weekly stipend

Participant Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum math placement score
  • Passage of a drug screen + random
  • At least 18 years old
  • A valid IL driver’s license
  • Interest in the trades
  • Mandatory attendance requirements

Miscellaneous

  • Each session runs 12 weeks, Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm
  • There are two class sessions per year (Fall, and Spring)
  • Contact Susan Sherwood at (309) 690-6912 for next class session
  • 12-15 participants will be selected for each session
  • Class location: ICC Peoria Campus, Hickory Hall