Norman Ruano, Deputy Director of the Office of Illinois Works at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), oversees a new portfolio of programs focused on bringing equity and inclusion to the state’s construction industry and the trades. With over 20 years of experience in the creation and implementation of construction workforce development programs for underserved community members and training programs for minority, women, and veteran-owned construction businesses, Norman is passionate about ensuring that the Illinois Works programs truly open doors of opportunity for thousands of Illinois residents interested in pursuing careers in construction.