© 2026 NPR Illinois
For your right to be curious.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
NPR Illinois is seeking a full-time multimedia journalist to co-host/produce/edit/report for a new daily, regional radio news hour with Sean Crawford. Click to apply.

CAPWorks Pre-Apprenticeship Program offers a pathway to the trades for Illinois Residents

Dominic Watson (left), and Nate Robinson (right) in studio with Jeff Williams (center) to discus the
Nate Robinson
/
The Springfield Project
Dominic Watson (left), and Nate Robinson (right) in studio with Jeff Williams (center) to discus the

Text Pending: For more info see, The Springfield Project 1100 South Grand Ave., E., Springfield, IL 62703. Wednesday, April 1, 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Direct from Nate Robinson:
The Springfield Project to Host CAPWorks Trade Career Discovery Day Today

SPRINGFIELD, IL — The Springfield Project will host CAPWorks Trade Career Discovery Day today, Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the 1908 Innovation & Coworking Center, 1100 South Grand Ave. East, Springfield, IL 62703.

This free event will introduce individuals ages 18 and older to career opportunities in the skilled trades, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and construction. Attendees will learn about apprenticeship pathways, industry-recognized certifications, and how to take the next step toward a stable, high-demand career.

Immediately following the Discovery Day event, there will be a community meeting to discuss the potential economic impact of the proposed data center on Springfield's Eastside.

WHAT:
CAPWorks Trade Career Discovery Day
Followed by a community meeting on the economic impact of the proposed data center on Springfield’s Eastside

WHEN:
Today, Wednesday, April 1, 2026
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. — CAPWorks Trade Career Discovery Day
Immediately following — Community meeting on data center economic impact

WHERE:
1908 Innovation & Coworking Center
1100 South Grand Ave. East
Springfield, IL 62703

DETAILS:
Participants will receive an overview of the CAPWorks Pre-Apprenticeship Program, information on skilled trade career pathways, registered apprenticeships, wage progression, and certifications such as OSHA-10 and CPR/First Aid. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions, connect with program staff, and sign up for pre-screening.

Following the event, community members are invited to stay for a discussion focused on the potential economic impact of the proposed data center on Springfield’s Eastside.

REGISTRATION:
Registration is encouraged. For more information or to sign up, contact Nate Robinson nrobinson@thespringfieldproject.org or (217) 670-8520.

Jeff C. Williams joined NPR Illinois in February of 2026.