Recently Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) met with members of the Mechanics’ Local 701 Union to deliver $850,000 for their new automotive industry training center in Aurora, Ill. The Local 701 Training Buildout Project will provide those seeking to expand their training skills with the opportunities and equipment to grow, thereby preparing the next generation of mechanics and other skills-based jobs in our communities. The funding is part of the recent bipartisan government funding package.
“I have long been a believer that a ticket to the middle class must be available to as many Americans as possible,” said Krishnamoorthi. “Securing this funding for Local 701’s training center will provide a roadmap to higher-paying jobs for more skilled workers throughout northern Illinois.”
“Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s support for IAM Mechanics’ Local 701 highlights a dedication to workforce development initiatives that empower individuals and bolster communities,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “This investment will aid in creating highly skilled technicians and filling high-demand positions in the automotive, trucking, and other specialized industries we represent.”
“The hard work of the IAM Local 701 staff and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi secured the funding for the training facility,” said Mark Grasseschi, IAM Directing Business Representative and Chairman of the Local 701 Training Fund. “Staff and members attended community meetings, office visits, and congressional events to advocate for additional funding for the facility. This funding was granted because of IAM Local 701’s outstanding track record in creating highly skilled technicians and their commitment to advancing technicians’ education.”
The roots of IAM Local 701’s apprenticeship program trace back to the 1990s when its founder, Sam Cicinelli, now the IAM Midwest Territory’s General Vice President, initiated efforts to garner support from the Local 701 members before bargaining contributions from the represented employers with whom Local 701 holds contracts with. Over the years, the program has evolved, culminating in partnerships with approximately 496 shops, including 200 auto dealerships. These partnerships span various sectors, including automotive, trucking, forklift, auto/body repair, trailer, marine, heavy equipment, and public transit.
The allocation will support developing and expanding the Local 701 apprenticeship facility in Aurora. In July 2023, the new facility opened with its inaugural cohort comprising 94 automotive and diesel mechanic apprentices.
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