Illinois Economic Policy Institute economist Frank Manzo appeared on this edition of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a study on the state’s pre-apprenticeship programs. Highlighting years of research, Manzo broke down how these initiatives, supported by both federal and state investments, are creating skilled labor pipelines, transforming lives and boosting economic returns in Illinois. His insights shed light on the success of these programs in attracting women and minorities to construction careers, as well as why they’re garnering attention from policymakers and other states.
One of the study’s most significant findings was the substantial return on investment for Illinois pre-apprenticeship programs, with around $66 million invested since 2017. Manzo said this amounts to about $13,000 per trainee, and altogether the programs have yielded an average 900% return on investment over 10 years, a rate unmatched by other workforce development initiatives in the state. Graduates often transition from low-wage work into middle-class union construction careers, earning an average wage of $50 per hour. This return demonstrates not only the practical use of public dollars but also the life-changing impact of debt-free, skilled career pathways.
Manzo outlined how these efforts have specifically addressed historical underrepresentation by supporting women and minority workers. According to the data, pre-apprentices account for about one-third of all new black construction apprentices and one-fifth of all new female construction apprentices in Illinois since 2017. With dedicated outreach, tuition-free training, and wraparound services like childcare and transportation, Manzo said these programs are ensuring pathways into the trades for diverse communities.
Finally, Manzo touched on the ripple effects that extend beyond Illinois, including interest from the media and policymakers. The study’s findings have been highlighted by outlets such as the Chicago Sun-Times and cited by Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, who touted the resulting surge in Black and female apprentices. While other states are showing interest in replicating Illinois’s model, Manzo emphasized the need to further expand and refine these programs to continue their transformative impact on the workforce and society. He concluded by saying that as more states strive to build skilled, diverse, and local labor pools, Illinois’s experience stands as a powerful example of strategic investment in workers.
For more from Manzo and the impact of new career pathways in Illinois, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.