• Posted: August 11, 2025
• Career change into the skilled trades, CISCO trades fair IBEW Local 134, Construction career fair for students and adults, Free Construction Trades Fair Chicago 2025, Hands-on union apprenticeship event Chicago, How to start a union trade career in Chicago, IBEW 134 apprenticeship event July 2025, Powering Chicago union career opportunities, Union Apprenticeship Programs in Illinois 2025

Powering Chicago supported CISCO’s efforts on July 11, 2025, as attendees across Chicagoland came together at IBEW Local 134 Union Hall for the Construction Industry Service Corporation’s (CISCO) 4th Annual Union Construction Trades Fair.

The free, public event featured hands-on activities and direct access to union apprenticeship programs and skilled trade careers, with over 30 union-affiliated construction companies, job alliances, and workforce development organizations participating. Most booths and demonstrations were held inside the IBEW Local 134 Union Hall, while the bricklayer and tuckpointer booths and demonstrations took place in the parking lot.

Participants had the opportunity to connect directly with trade professionals, explore apprenticeship paths, and gather information on application timelines and training requirements, making it especially valuable for high school students, recent graduates, and adults exploring new careers.

Promoting Pathways to the Trades

The fair is part of CISCO’s Education-to-Careers initiative to help individuals—from students to career changers—understand what it takes to enter the union construction industry. By connecting participants directly with representatives from the trades, the fair makes critical information about the skilled trades more accessible and approachable.

As part of the event’s continued commitment to community, donated school supplies were distributed to school-age students in attendance while supplies lasted.

A Commitment to the Next Generation

“As the demand for skilled labor continues to grow, events like this play a critical role in showing students and jobseekers that there is a path to a successful, rewarding career through the trades,” said Elbert Walters III, Executive Director of Powering Chicago. “We’re proud to support initiatives that build both opportunity and awareness.”

To explore CISCO’s Education-to-Careers Program, visit here. For more on becoming an IBEW Local 134 apprentice, visit the Industry Programs page of our website.