Exciting, high-demand careers working alongside skilled union contractors who are building Illinois every day.
The construction trades represented by the Livingston-McLean County Building Trades Council offer real career opportunities right here in Central Illinois. Through partnerships between local union contractors and registered apprenticeship programs, individuals can train in the skilled trades while earning competitive wages and building a long-term career. From infrastructure and commercial development to industrial projects across the region, union tradespeople are at the center of the work that keeps our communities moving forward. These are hands-on careers with strong wages, excellent benefits, and clear pathways for advancement—built on skill, pride, and local opportunity.
Most careers begin through a registered apprenticeship program offered by one of our affiliated unions. These programs combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing you to earn while you learn and build a long-term skilled trade career.
The Livingston-McLean County Building Trades Council connects job seekers with union apprenticeship programs and supports coordination between contractors and local unions. While each trade manages its own training and hiring, the Council helps promote career opportunities, strengthen workforce development, and advocate for strong union jobs across the region.
No prior experience is required for most apprenticeship programs. Applicants typically need a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and the ability to meet basic requirements such as age, education, and physical fitness for the trade.
We represent a wide range of skilled trades, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, operators, ironworkers, laborers, sheet metal workers, roofers, and more. Each trade offers unique career paths with strong wages, benefits, and advancement opportunities.
Union careers offer competitive wages, excellent healthcare and retirement benefits, ongoing training, job security, and strong workplace protections. Apprentices also gain valuable experience while earning a paycheck from day one.
Each union local manages its own apprenticeship applications. Interested candidates can visit the specific local’s website or contact the union hall directly for information on application periods, requirements, and next steps.
Registered apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn a paycheck while mastering their craft. Under the guidance of experienced journeypersons, apprentices gain real-world experience, industry-recognized credentials, and steadily increasing wages throughout their training. These programs create a direct pathway to long-term careers with benefits and retirement security—without the burden of college debt—ensuring the next generation of skilled professionals is ready to build our region’s future.