A federal grant of $1.3 million allocated to the Illinois Department of Labor aims to increase female representation in the construction industry, where women currently comprise just 4% of the national workforce, according to officials.

During a press conference near the Kennedy Expressway on the Northwest Side, Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su, alongside Governor J.B. Pritzker, introduced the Tradeswomen Building Infrastructure grant. This funding stems from President Joe Biden’s landmark $1.2 trillion infrastructure legislation signed into law nearly two years ago, with the specific objective of advancing gender equality and inclusion within the predominantly male-dominated construction sector.

The grant will be distributed to the state’s Department of Labor and the non-profit organization Chicago Women in Trades, which will then disburse their own grants to selected workforce development groups tasked with formulating equity strategies. These initiatives encompass apprenticeship programs and alternative pathways endorsed by associations supporting women in trades, all geared towards integrating more women into quality positions within the construction industry.

Su remarked in a statement, "In order to construct an economy that uplifts all sectors of America, we require a workforce that reflects the diversity of our nation. Grants such as this one contribute to this vision," alluding to the administration's agenda for middle-class advancement known as "Bidenomics."

Additionally, the federal funding will assist state agencies in creating programs to enhance diversity within the clean energy sector, as outlined by the Labor Department.

Governor Pritzker, a steadfast ally of President Biden within the Democratic party, expressed his approval, stating, "I am gratified that the Biden-Harris administration is acknowledging the enduring efforts of Illinois tradeswomen by supporting the upcoming generation of women training in a field that has historically marginalized and underrepresented them."

The grant is anticipated to be disbursed to trade organizations by the conclusion of the year.

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