Students, women in trades advocate for more career and technical education

Summary

High school students in Illinois, including Luciana Deir and Angelica Turza, are advocating for increased support and funding for career and technical education (CTE) classes, particularly for women pursuing trades. They recently met with lawmakers during the 2025 AMPLIFY Conference to address barriers to entry in the trades and promote equitable opportunities in apprenticeship programs.

This push for enhanced CTE and apprenticeship programs reflects a broader movement to ensure that diverse populations are represented in skilled trades, which is crucial for workforce development. As more organizations work toward creating pathways and reducing barriers, the importance of these initiatives cannot be overstated in fostering economic stability and career opportunities for underrepresented groups in Illinois and beyond.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This story highlights the critical need for increased awareness and support for registered apprenticeship programs, particularly for women and minority groups in the trades. By addressing barriers and advocating for equitable access, stakeholders can help shape a more inclusive workforce that benefits both individuals and the economy.