Crain's Chicago Business
July 14, 2025
Karen Larson, Director of finance and operations HIRE360. Scope of work: Larson oversees fiscal strategy, compliance and operations, managing a $14 million budget and a 30-person team. She built the organization’s financial systems from the ground up and has helped support its rapid growth, including securing a new headquarters.

Lawndale News
July 3, 2025
ComEd and HIRE360 celebrated 20 local job seekers who graduated from the TAKE Charge: EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program, a training program designed to build the skilled talent pipeline needed for careers in the electric vehicle (EV) industry and related trades on June 25th at the ComEd Chicago Training Center. In partnership with HIRE360, ComEd launched Take Charge in 2023 to prepare community members for careers in the fast-growing EV industry – which is experiencing growth in large part thanks to the state’s goal of adding one million EVs on Illinois roads by 2030.

Chicago Tribune
June 29, 2025
Climate Jobs Illinois, in partnership with HIRE360 and unions across the state, is investing in clean energy workforce programs that open doors for equity-eligible communities. Backed by CEJA, these programs are more than job training — they’re launching pads for long-term, family-sustaining careers in solar, wind, electric vehicle infrastructure and energy efficiency.

Crain's Chicago Business
June 2, 2025
Jay Rowell, Executive Director HIRE360. Scope of work: Rowell oversees a $14 million budget and a 30-person team focused on workforce development and economic growth. He builds industry partnerships to create career pipelines and expand access to capital. Nonprofit contribution: Since launching Hire360 in 2020, he's secured millions in funding, supported pre-apprenticeship programs and helped establish a $10 million small-business loan pool.

Philanthropy News Digest
May 22, 2025
A4CB was awarded $2.5 million in support of efforts to expand the construction industry around Chicago and help businesses that have fluctuating revenue flow, such as restaurants and retail. To that end, it will bolster its partnership with HIRE360, a specialized construction loan program that offers advisory services and mentoring.

Chicago Tribune
May 18, 2025
As the federal government seems to be turning its back on us, it’s even more critical for Illinois lawmakers to invest in training programs that keep this door open for women. — Myeisha Cook, graduate, HIRE360 Illinois Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, Southwestern Illinois College.

Wells Fargo Press Release
May 14, 2025
With its $2.5 million Open for Business Growth grant, Allies for Community Business is piloting a new revenue-based financing model and expanding access to its partnership with HIRE360, a specialized construction loan program that offers advisory services and mentoring.

Crain's Chicago Business
May 12, 2025
Jackson upgraded a bit after completing a work-training program at Hire360 and landing a job with above-minimum-wage pay with the CTA. He moved into a $750-a-month one-bedroom apartment. He’s still frugal, adhering to his “just don’t overdo it” way of living.

The Citizen Newspaper
May 7, 2025
Myeisha Cook always had an interest in refurbishing furniture. She wanted to find a program that would help her enhance those skills. One of Cook’s family members who teaches a class for HIRE360 encouraged her to participate in the program because of her interest in carpentry.

HIRE360 Press Release
April 28, 2025
HIRE360, in partnership with the Will County Executive Office, has launched the first Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program in Will County, set to begin on May 5. Funded through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), the nine-week program is designed to strengthen the construction workforce pipeline by preparing individuals for entry into registered union apprenticeship programs.

Governor Pritzker Newsroom
April 14, 2025
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today awarded more than $19 million in funding to 38 program recipients serving 1,900 community members statewide to expand the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program creates a qualified talent pipeline of diverse candidates in the construction and building trades. The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs in well-paying fields.

HIRE360 Press Release
March 13, 2025
CHICAGO—HIRE360, with support from Benefit Chicago and Allies for Community Business (A4CB), has announced a new loan program aimed at empowering community businesses within Chicago’s construction trades industry. The program will help these businesses overcome financial barriers, secure larger contracts, and achieve sustainable growth.

Stanford Social Innovation Review
March 4, 2025
Chicago-based HIRE360 connects underrepresented workers and businesses to opportunities within the traditionally insular world of construction.

Chicago Tribune
February 21, 2025
Over a thousand Chicago Public Schools students gathered at Hire360's center on the Near South Side Thursday to attend a skilled trades recruitment event, exposing them to postsecondary pathways other than traditional four-year colleges and universities. Hosted by Hire360 Thursday morning, the first of the four events focused on renewable energy and solar jobs. The remaining three events will touch on plumbing and carpentry, as well as one event titled "Putting Chicago to Work" that will cover several career paths.

Citizen Newspaper Group
February 12, 2025
The Powell Group Corporation is truly a family business in every sense of the word. Tyrone E. Powell, Jr. his wife, Marceda, their sons, Tyvion W. Benson, Tyrone E. Powell III and AJ Shambery IV, and nephew, Bakari Simmons, all work together. The Powells received the support necessary to grow their business from HIRE360. With the support from Related Midwest and HIRE360, the Powell Group Corporation went from being a small start up to making more than $3 million in 2023. One of the company’s projects is renovating the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) affordable and senior housing through CHA’s Make Ready Program. Marceda Powell said the aim is to make beautiful living spaces for the seniors, not just replacing cabinets and floors. She said Powell Group Corporation takes pride in the work they do.

WAND-TV
January 24, 2025
Friday afternoon, 15 students celebrated their graduation from the Workforce Investment Solutions Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program focuses on construction and the building trades. Graduates leave the program with NABTU, OSHA, and First Aid/CPR certifications. Upon completion, graduates can transition into an apprenticeship registered with the Department of Labor.

PR Newswire
January 16, 2025
"Pivot's support will help us advance workforce pathways into the solar industry, focusing on transitioning workers from fossil fuel trades and empowering underrepresented groups like minorities and women," said Jay Rowell, Executive Director of HIRE360.

Crain's Chicago Business
January 13, 2025
With diversity initiatives under sweeping attack nationwide, minority and women contractors in Illinois are bracing for changes, or even the elimination of the government set-aside programs that for years have ensured a steady stream of work.

Crain's Chicago Business
January 13, 2025
DEI has been attacked by the political right, who claim it leads to hiring unqualified people over those who are more qualified. In reality, DEI practices — removing bias from the hiring process, mentoring programs, pay equity and employee resource groups, and simply reaching out to different communities to let them know about opportunities — simply attempt to level the playing field. This is particularly important in fields where women and minorities remain underrepresented.

Crain's Chicago Business
November 1, 2024
Local organizations receiving money include Allies for Community Business, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, The Chicago Community Foundation, Civic Consulting Alliance, Hire360 and United Way of Metro Chicago.

HIRE360 Press Release
October 31, 2024
HIRE360, a leading nonprofit focused on expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities, is pleased to announce an additional $250,000 contribution from Constellation (Nasdaq: CEG) to help expand the organization’s “Empowering Futures” workforce development program. This second installment brings Constellation’s total investment to $500,000, further supporting efforts to increase access to family-sustaining jobs in the clean energy and building trades sectors for underrepresented communities in Illinois.

HIRE360 Press Release
October 22, 2024
HIRE360, a leading nonprofit focused on expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities, today announced a groundbreaking statewide partnership with the Illinois AFL-CIO to launch the Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Supported by the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), this initiative is designed to create a pathway for nearly 500 Illinois residents from underrepresented communities to enter union careers in the burgeoning clean energy sector.

El Día Newspaper
October 5, 2024
HIRE360, acompañado por el Gobernador J.B. Pritzker, el Alcalde Brandon Johnson, el Congresista Raja Krishnamoorthi y otros líderes locales, lanzó hoy su innovador Centro de Capacitación y Desarrollo Empresarial, una instalación de última generación diseñada para reconfigurar la diversidad laboral en las industrias de la construcción y los oficios en Chicago. El centro ofrece acceso sin precedentes a capacitación práctica, aprendizajes sindicales, mentoría y recursos para el desarrollo empresarial, empoderando a una nueva generación de profesionales y negocios diversos para prosperar en el sector de la construcción.

Chicago Defender
September 28, 2024
HIRE360, joined by Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, and other local leaders, today launched its groundbreaking Training and Business Development Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to reshape workforce diversity in Chicago’s construction and trades industries. The center offers unparalleled access to hands-on training, union apprenticeships, mentorship, and business development resources, empowering a new generation of diverse professionals and businesses to thrive in the construction sector.

Fox 32 Chicago
September 26, 2024
As Chicago's skyline grows, so does the demand for skilled hands to build it and Hire360 is ensuring the city's workforce is ready to rise to the challenge.

WGN-TV
September 26, 2024
A local nonprofit workforce development organization is celebrating a new state-of-the-art development center geared towards reshaping diversity in the city’s construction and trade industries. Once a dilapidated storehouse, Hire360 at 25th and State officially opened its new center on Thursday. State leaders believe the work done inside will continue propelling Chicagoans to union apprenticeships, resources, and good-paying jobs.

HIRE360 Press Release
September 26, 2024
HIRE360, joined by Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, and other local leaders, today launched its groundbreaking Training and Business Development Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to reshape workforce diversity in Chicago’s construction and trades industries. The center offers unparalleled access to hands-on training, union apprenticeships, mentorship, and business development resources, empowering a new generation of diverse professionals and businesses to thrive in the construction sector.

Crain's Chicago Business
September 23, 2024
Whitaker has been leading business development at Hire360 for four years, supporting over 180 minority- and women-owned businesses. She drives capacity building, access to capital and strategic mentorship, and has facilitated over 90 loans totaling $15 million.

Chicago Business Journal
September 17, 2024
Chicago nonprofit Hire360 will host a grand opening next week for a new training and business development center in the South Loop that was built with a $3 million donation from billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Citizen Newspaper
September 11, 2024
Brown said what sets HIRE360 apart is that it has a focus on pre-apprenticeship skills, soft skills and hard skills. It also has a workforce team that is capable and ready to assist the candidates face-to-face. That team of case managers work with the candidates from day one, walking the candidates throughout their career. The work includes case managers helping candidates with interview preparation, mock interviews or anything else the candidates need to prepare them for the workforce.

Chicago Tribune
August 17, 2024
McHugh-Powers collaborated with a number of groups dedicated to training and sourcing workers from underrepresented communities, including minority workforce development organization HIRE360. HIRE360 was also able to bring recent Chicago Public Schools graduates from their pre-apprenticeship cohort to tour the DNC construction site, said Executive Director Jay Rowell.

CBS News Chicago
August 13, 2024
HIRE360 is a non-profit organization that connects minority candidates with the jobs of their dreams. Ryan Brown says it helped him find his life's calling.

CBS News Chicago
August 9, 2024
Electricians, carpenters, plumbers, and many more hard-working Americans are members of trade unions. CBS News Chicago found a nonprofit organization that connects minority candidates with the jobs of their dreams, including one young man who said it helped him find his life's calling.

JP Morgan Chase
July 25, 2024
In Chicago, HIRE360 is meeting that challenge head-on. The organization, which is set to open a new job training center in the city’s South Loop, connects women, veterans and underrepresented groups in Chicago to good-paying careers in over 30 skilled trades. It also puts a special focus on getting high school students to consider the trades as a viable career path.

Block Club Chicago
July 10, 2024
The 548 Foundation and HIRE360 will use the funds awarded through the state’s Clean and Equitable Jobs Act to create more opportunities for graduates of their apprenticeship and training programs.

Business Wire
June 4, 2024
Take Charge: EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program graduates 16 local residents ready for trades careers supporting Illinois’ fast-growing EV sector.

Chicago Business Journal
March 28, 2024
HIRE360 targets recruiting minorities and women to the trades, leveraging partnerships with big name developers, contractors and unions.

Chicago Business Journal
March 19, 2024
Other Chicago organizations that have received their largest donations ever from Scott include Cara Collective ($8 million); Chicago Urban League ($6.6 million); Skills for Chicagoland’s Future ($5 million); and Hire360 ($3 million).

Classic Chicago Magazine
March 16, 2024
Honored influencers were: Lisa Yun Lee, Executive Director of the National Public Housing Museum; Juan Moreno, Project Design Principal, President and Founder, JGMA; Shermann “Dilla” Thomas, Chicagoan historian and Co-Founder, Chicago Mahogany Tours; Non-Profit Influencer Hire360, represented by Jay Rowell, Executive Director; and Corporate Influencer, Holsten Real Estate Development Corporation, represented by Senior Vice President and General Counsel Jackie Holsten and President Peter Holsten.

Austin Weekly News
February 20, 2024
Hire360 helped Simply E&C get into the solar construction space, where the contractor signed its first multimillion-dollar contract for three, two-megawatt solar systems.

Chicago Crusader
February 19, 2024
With 154 such enterprises already benefiting from HIRE360's initiatives, the new funds will accelerate this positive trajectory.

HIRE360 Press Release
February 13, 2024
Investment Will Support Women and Minority-Owned Enterprises and Pre-Apprenticeship Workforce Development in Illinois

Forbes
February 7, 2024
Another example is ComEd’s Take Charge: EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program, a partnership between the utility and HIRE360, a nonprofit organization. The paid training program provides participants with an introduction to the EV charging industry and helps them transition into local apprenticeships through IBEW Local 134.

Forbes
February 6, 2024
HIRE360, a JPMorgan Chase grantee that provides workforce development programs, has partnered with ComEd, Chicagoland’s electric provider, on a pre-apprenticeship program called Take Charge, which helps equip jobseekers with workforce training to prepare for careers in the electric vehicle industry. Most of Take Charge’s November graduates were from communities where investment in job training and economic development has historically been lacking.

HIRE360 Press Release
January 29, 2024
Collaboration Proposes Plan to Leverage Innovation and Workforce Development to Create Sustainable Ecosystems and Drive Inclusive Economic Growth

Crain’s Chicago Business
January 23, 2024
A nonprofit that helps build up Chicago and diversify the city’s construction industry is expanding its operation, with a big helping hand from famed billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Chicago Citizen
January 17, 2024

Connect CRE
January 15, 2024

HIRE360 Press Release
January 8, 2024
The Facility Will Provide a Hub for Underrepresented Groups to Explore Careers in the Trades and Provide Support for Women- and Minority-Owned Entrepreneurs.

FOX 32 Chicago
January 8, 2024
A Chicago nonprofit received a $3 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott this week.

CBS News Chicago
January 8, 2024

Journal & Topics Media Group
January 4, 2024
Panelists expected to join Krishnamoorthi at 1.pm. event are Gina Rosen, of Opportunity@Work, Jay Rowell, of HIRE360, Joe Scrima, of Harper College, and High School Dist. 211 school board members Steven Rosenblum and Korn Ferry.

The Climate Jobs Institute
November 30, 2023
This report highlights one of these critical interventions: apprenticeship readiness programs. Such programs recruit, support, and prepare people to enter and successfully complete registered apprenticeship programs. They routinely target the construction industry, aiming to provide opportunities for members of underserved communities and people underrepresented in the building trades.

Chicago Sun-Times
November 17, 2023
It will take a diverse, durable coalition of policymakers willing to take the actions necessary to drive toward a cleaner, more equitable future, leaders of ComEd and HIRE360 write.

WVON AM
November 9, 2023
ComEd and HIRE360 joined members of the community to recognize the first class of graduates of the Take Charge: Pre-Apprenticeship program, a first-of-its-kind program to prepare local residents for careers supporting the fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) industry in Illinois.

Chicago Gazette
October 2023
A local organization is working to increase the labor force in some of the nation’s fastest growing trades. HIRE360, a Near South-based nonprofit, is partnering with several organizations across the city with hopes of diversifying fields such as construction and pipefitting, said Jay Rowell, HIRE360’s executive director.

Chicago Citizen Newspaper
August 16, 2023
HIRE360 and ComEd have partnered to create a pre apprenticeship program that is meant to be a pipeline to develop diverse talent and grow the Electric Vehicle Industry in Illinois. The EV Charging Pre-Apprenticeship Program is an eight-week, paid training program, which is set to begin in the fall. The training will focus on people in communities on the South and West sides.

Chicago Crusader
August 14, 2023
Constellation (Nasdaq: CEG), the largest producer of carbon-free energy in the U.S., is contributing $250,000 to HIRE360 as part of a program to increase employment and training opportunities in the building trades for women and people of color in the Chicago area. The partnership, an expansion of Constellation’s $1 million Powering Change workforce development initiative, will help HIRE360 launch a program to train people in historically underserved communities for family-sustaining union jobs in the building trades.

Chicago Citizen Newspaper
July 19, 2023
Harris and Tenna D. Monroe are two women who are working on the Obama Presidential Center. The Obama Foundation convened the We Can Build It Consortium after receiving $3 million from Bank of America to support its workforce development and community support initiatives. The We Can Build It Consortium and the Obama Presidential Center developed a pipeline of talented people in the construction industry. Partners for We Can Build It include Chicago Women in Trades, HIRE360, Revolution Workshop, St. Paul Community Development Ministries, Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters and IBEW 134. Through the Chicago Women In Trades program, Harris has made lifelong mentors and friends. She liked the group of women in the plumbing program and the camaraderie they had. The part that piqued her interest the most was when they had to solder copper and move around materials.

WGN Radio
July 2, 2023
Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, returns to The Workers’ Mic, Powered by the MCL, Ken Edwards and Ed Maher to talk about his recent article on diversity in the labor movement, and about the cross-industry partnership of HIRE360 that is providing career opportunities in the Chicagoland area.

Crain’s Chicago Business
June 22, 2023
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation announced it will give the Obama Foundation a $26 million grant to be used for the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. $25 million of the grant will go toward establishing the Democracy in Action Lab, a programming hub that aims to provide “a physical space to facilitate community convening and inspire civic participation.” The remaining $1 million will support the Obama Foundation’s Leaders Program, connecting and supporting civic leaders around the world. The new program, made possible by the foundation’s grant, is described as the “epicenter” of the center’s commitment to community and “a space to enrich young leaders in the neighborhood and around the world,” according to a press release. It will be designed to host a variety of events, from community gathering and workshops to lectures from prominent speakers. HIRE360 has people working on the Obama Presidential Center.

Lawndale News
June 22, 2023
President Preckwinkle announced that Cook County was selected for a $1.1 million grant award from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office. With these funds, Cook County will partner with HIRE360 and OAI to establish the Chicagoland Solar Collaborative to identify needs and develop solutions to support the emerging market and increased demand for solar installation. Cook County is one of twelve organizations selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO)’s $13.5 million Advancing Equity through Workforce Partnerships program to facilitate the rapid deployment of solar energy technologies by growing and supporting an inclusive workforce with opportunities for union membership.

Univision Chicago Radio
May 29, 2023
HIRE360 is a nonprofit organization that helps minority people enter the construction and trades industry. Our work is focused on connecting individuals with projects that are happening in the city of Chicago. This summer, HIRE360 and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) announced a partnership aimed at providing unique work-based learning opportunities for students in the Career Tech Education’s Construction & Architecture programs.

Chicago Citizen Newspaper
May 11, 2023
Lonnie Baker wasn't sure what he wanted as a career choice. It wasn't until he had to get work done on his property that he pinpointed plumbing as a career. Baker's uncle was the reason he considered going into a skilled trade. Baker was connected to HIRE360 through a church member who worked with HIRE360 in the past. Baker reached out and was set up with a case worker.

Railway Track And Structures
April 14, 2023
As part of the Chicago Transit Authority's plans to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in its operations, the Chicago Transit Board approved the awarding of two contracts totaling $3.4 million to five local contractors on April 12 to assist in the identification, recruitment, and training of a diverse prospective workforce and their placement on CTA and area construction projects. The second contract, awarded to Chicago Women in Trades and HIRE360, is for services to help qualified job seekers find work on CTA and other regional construction projects.

Crain’s Chicago Business
March 20, 2023
Don Biernacki is board chair of HIRE360 and executive vice president of construction at Related Midwest. In 2019, a group of developers, general contractors and labor unions in Chicago came together to address a problem: If inclusivity in an industry means having it reflect the world around it, our industry has historically failed to meet that bar. Out of our discussions was born HIRE360, an innovative, cross-industry partnership that would provide localized mentorship, direct investment and specialized services to strengthen the participation of underrepresented populations in the Chicago area.

Crain’s Chicago Business
March 20, 2023
Over the next decade, megaprojects such as O'Hare 21, Related Midwest's The 78 and Sterling Bay's Lincoln Yards have the potential to lift dozens of small minority- and women-owned firms. There's also the proposed Chicago Transit Authority Red Line extension, reconstruction of DuSable Lake Shore Drive, the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park and Bally's River West casino.

WVON AM
February 27, 2023
LeAndre Perkins speaks with WVON about working in the construction trade after learning about HIRE360 at a job fair and enrolling in ahpre-apprenticeship program.

Multifamilybiz
February 3, 2023
For more than 30 years, Related Midwest has been an industry leader in community commitment and routinely sets the bar for measurable equity, diversity and inclusion standards on all of its projects. The company is deeply committed to improving neighborhoods, creating sustainable opportunities for small businesses and community residents, and building inspirational places and homes for all. Related Midwest’s business model is built on partnership with minority- and women-owned firms as well as mentorship of small minority- and women-owned businesses as they launch and grow. The firm is a founding partner in HIRE360, a first-of-its-kind community partnership designed to expand professional development and employment opportunities in the trades.

Crain's Chicago Business
January 17, 2023
At Hire360, the organization I lead, we strive for board and staff diversity that reflects the world around us—and the individuals we serve. We couldn’t do our work to increase opportunities in the trades or find innovative ways to solve people’s challenges if some of us hadn’t experienced those challenges ourselves. Another example is the Chicago Transit Board, the governing arm of the CTA, which mirrors the diversity of the city it serves. It makes one wonder how much more successful—and in touch with their customers—Fortune 500 companies would be if they followed the same approach.

FOX 32 Chicago
January 14, 2023
HIRE360 looks to help women and minorities master the skills they need to land high-paying construction jobs. The program is a partnership with trade unions, developers and general contractors in Chicago with a common goal of diversifying the construction industry.

Chicago Citizen Newspaper
December 21, 2022
“With the support of HIRE360, an organization designed to expand professional development and employment opportunities in the trades, and Related Midwest, a founding partner of HIRE360, Pride established a partnership with Trane for commercial services. Pride has more than 25 years of experience working on large-scale projects in Chicago and across the Midwest.”

WGN Channel 9
December 12, 2022
“With the help of HIRE360, an organization that works to expand professional development and employment opportunities in trade and Related Midwest, a founding partner of HIRE 360, Pride Pipe & Supply was able to partner with Trane, a world leader in air conditioning systems, services and solutions.”

The Philadelphia Tribune
November 26, 2022
“In September, The Philadelphia Tribune reported that a coalition of developers, corporations, labor unions and trade groups is launching an initiative called “Everybody Builds,” in Philadelphia, modeled after HIRE360.”

Block Club Chicago
November 16, 2022
“Construction is underway on the 40,000-square-foot HIRE360 Training and Business Development Center, which will take over a former shipping warehouse at 2520 S. State St.”

PR Newswire
October 17, 2022
“We are also committed to inclusivity and our partnerships with the CCBT, Chicago Federation of Labor, and Hire360 will ensure our workforce will reflect the rich diversity of the city.”

NBC 5 Chicago, Sandra Torres
September 15, 2022
“Rudy Morales’ passion for construction work led him to be part of the group that will build the Obama Presidential Center. Through HIRE360, an organization that helps prepare and train people to obtain jobs in construction. He was able to join the Carpenter’s Apprenticeship program.”

WGN Radio, Pete Zimmerman
August 30, 2022

REjournals
June 6, 2022
“In addition to the partnerships forged with minority contractors, McHugh Construction is also committed to connecting minorities and women with careers in the trades through its active role in HIRE360. McHugh Construction is a founding member of the nonprofit organization, which is a partnership of some of the city’s largest developers, contractors and trade unions. Meagher also serves on the organization’s board of directors.“

Lawndale News
April 21, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders to announce a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. The HIRE360 Training & Business Development Center, a 40,000-square-foot space supported by $2 million in state funding and $1 million of federal funds, will include conference and meeting spaces, networking and education, working space for 37 trades, a playroom and parents center for working professionals, two commercial training kitchens, retail space for diverse suppliers, event space and more.”

Chicago Defender
April 20, 2022
“State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) stood alongside Governor JB Pritzker and others Monday to announce a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.  It previously received $550,000 in funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.”

WVON-AM
April 19, 2022 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
“State and federal funding will be used to help pay for a new HIRE360 training development center in Chicago. Governor JB Pritzker and other unveiled the $3 million dollar investment into the new facility.”

West Suburban Journal
April 19, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders this week to announce a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.”

The American Bazaar
April 19, 2022
“Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi joined Illinois Governor J B Pritzker, to announce a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. The HIRE360 Training & Business Development Center, a 40,000-square-foot space supported by $2 million in state funding and $1 million of federal funds secured by Krishnamoorthi secured, according to a press release.”

Chicago Sun-Times
April 18, 2022
“Gov. J.B. Pritzker gathered alongside Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and local business leaders Monday to celebrate a $3 million investment for a new Training and Business Development Center on the Near South Side that will support the growth of small businesses throughout Chicago. It’s the next big step for HIRE360, which since 2019 has worked to help underrepresented populations, such as women and people of color, to scale up their businesses and find work and apprenticeship opportunities in construction and hospitality sectors.”

Young Gazzate
April 19, 2022
“Gov. J.B. Pritzker gathered alongside Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and local business leaders Monday to celebrate a $3 million investment for a new Training and Business Development Center on the Near South Side that will support the growth of small businesses throughout Chicago. It’s the next big step for HIRE360, which since 2019 has worked to help underrepresented populations, such as women and people of color, to scale up their businesses and find work and apprenticeship opportunities in construction and hospitality sectors.”

New City
April 19, 2022
“Governor J.B. Pritzker joined other local leaders at HIRE360’s new 40,000 square-foot center to celebrate its future opening… The center will be a space for industry leaders, contractors, sub-contractors, developers, organized labor and apprentices to come together to ensure that our city’s future is inspired by communities… The center will include conference and meeting rooms, networking and education opportunities, specific spaces for thirty-seven trades, a playroom and parents center for working professionals, two commercial training kitchens, retail space for diverse suppliers and event space.”

WLS
April 19, 2022 6 am – 8 am
“Illinois lawmakers celebrating 3 million dollars in funding for a new training and business development center located in the South Loop neighborhood focusing on women and minorities. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi says the center’s focus is on skills-based education.”

WBEZ
April 19, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker was on hand in the South Loop neighborhood today where the center will open later this year. The HIRE360 center is backed by 3 million dollars in state and federal funding.”

WLS-ABC
April 18, 2022
“Illinois lawmakers announced today 3 million dollars in funding for a new training business development center in Chicago to help women and minorities. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi says the center’s focus is on skills-based education. The 40,000 sq foot HIRE360 building includes conference and meeting room spaces for trades, event space and more.”

WCPT-AM
April 18, 2022
“Today Governor Pritzker announced a 3 million dollar investment in the HIRE360 job training center. It’s in the South Loop and it’s a training and business development center.”

WBEZ
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker was on hand in the South Loop neighborhood today where the center will open later this year. The HIRE360 center is backed by 3 million dollars in state and federal funding.”

WAND
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker announces a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. Pritzker was joined by representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders on Monday to share in the announcement.”

WGN
April 18, 2022
“A new training and business development center is coming to downtown Chicago, and it’s being backed by $3 million in combined state and federal government funding. Governor J.B. Pritzker joined other local leaders at HIRE360’s new 40,000 square-foot center to celebrate its future opening.”

Spot On Illinois
April 18, 2022
“A new training and business development center is coming to downtown Chicago, and it’s being backed by $3 million in combined state and federal government funding. Governor J.B. Pritzker joined other local leaders at HIRE360’s new 40,000 square-foot center to celebrate its future.”

The Southland Journal
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker today joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders to announce a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.”

EIN
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker today joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders to announce a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.”

Chicago Sun-Times
April 15, 2022
“The Community Economic Development Program announced Friday will expand the Museum 44, the Green Initiatives and the A. Philip Randolph Advocacy and Training programs; create a hospitality district called “Randolph’s Way;” and establish a business corridor called Pullman Porters Row. “This is going to be a Black labor district where we elevate the stories of Black legends,” said David Peterson, president of the museum. “People will be able to get training for jobs, we’re going to work hand in hand with the unions so we can get things done.” The training will be done in partnership with the Chicago Federation of Labor, IBEW Local 134 and Hire360.”

Chicago Sun-Times
February 2, 2022
“At HIRE360, we are working to address this lack of awareness. Our recruiters work with individuals interested in the trades to identify their challenges, goals and interests. We explore the dozens of different construction trades and work with our union partners to help candidates apply for apprenticeships.”

Mass Transit
February 1, 2022
“Melvin Henley from PAC Leaders talks about building the Chicago Fire exhibit at the Chicago History Museum and how they help trade workers.”

Mass Transit
January 25, 2022
“CTA works with two workforce assistance agencies, HIRE360 and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, to recruit economically disadvantaged candidates for career opportunities related to RPM and other large projects. Additional workforce events and programs have included professional career opportunity events with local contractors and trade unions, as well as a webinar series to educate Chicago Public School high school students about the construction industry and entering the building trades as a profession post-high school.”

BisNow International
January 25, 2022
“To address long-term labor concerns, McHugh Construction is working with subcontractors, unions and organizations such as HIRE360, a Chicago-area not-for-profit that aims to help youth secure opportunities in the construction trades.”

StreetsBlog Chicago
January 25, 2022
“While the RPM program has caused some inconvenience for residents and merchants – particularly the closure of the Lawrence and Berwyn stations since May 16 – the city is touting the economic benefits of the project. Officials said the CTA works with two workforce assistance agencies, HIRE360 and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, to recruit low-income residents for construction jobs.”

WVON-AM
October 13, 2021
“There is so much to talk about today. Coming up soon, we’re going to be having a conversation with Ms. Chynna Hampton at HIRE360. We’re going to tell you folks how to look at getting a good job, getting training for good jobs. So if you’re looking to change your lifestyle you definitely do not want to miss the next segment.”

Crain’s Chicago Business
October 1, 2021
“An apprenticeship offers a path to a career in the trades.”

Politico
September 29, 2021
“Barack and Michelle Obama broke ground on their Obama Presidential Center Tuesday, linking their deeply personal connections to Chicago’s South Side to the site they hope will transform the community and change political discourse ‘nationally and internationally.'”

PennState
September 22, 2021
“Clayco Rising has also collaborated with numerous organizations created to support people from groups underrepresented in engineering and construction, including HIRE360, the Federation of Women Contractors and the National Society of Black Engineers.”

Crain’s Chicago Business
September 17, 2021
“The owner of a growing construction business tapped nonprofit HIRE360 to find the skilled talent needed to scale up.”

FOX 32 Chicago
September 6, 2021
“Don Biernacki, president of Related Midwest, talks about their career opportunities for future generations of trade workers looking to grow their skills.”

Patch
July 8, 2021
“JPMorgan Chase announced a new $150 million, five-year commitment in philanthropic capital and low-cost loans to Chicago’s South and West sides.“

Chicago Defender
June 18, 2021
“‘Business has a responsibility to help solve challenges facing the customers and communities it serves, and that includes addressing long standing racial and economic inequities that affect far too many Chicagoans,’ said Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO, JPMorgan Chase & Co.”

Chicago Sun-Times
May 10, 2021
“Hire360’s executive director, Jay Rowell, was enthused about Williams’ involvement with Sterling Bay, saying it should help some companies deal with their No. 1 concern: access to capital.”

Chicago Citizen Newspaper
May 5, 2021
“UNITE HERE Local 1 represents hospitality workers throughout Chicago and Northwest Indiana. HIRE360 is a nonprofit that connects underserved minority businesses and communities with jobs in the building trades. Jay Rowell, executive director of HIRE360, said the state of Illinois allocated the funding for the program in early 2020, but due to COVID-19, the roll out of the program was delayed. ‘We’ve been talking to a number of the employers who are involved with UNITE HERE and the culinary program and we all agreed that this is a good time to start the training because there’s a lot of opportunity in hospitality right now,’ Rowell said.”

TBDNEWS
April 27, 2021
“First Culinary Apprentice Class – UNITE HERE, Chicago Hospitality Institute (UHCHI), HIRE360, Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) and SAVOR announced the first-ever UHCHI Culinary Apprenticeship Class in preparation of the return of hospitality. The eight-week program kicked-off on Monday, April 19 and serves a diverse group of students, many of whom had been laid off from their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Chicago Bears News
April 26, 2021
“Davis also operates his own foundation, A Saturday Place, an academic enrichment program for third and fourth grade Chicago public school students; and is a board member for Hire360, a non-profit that helps Chicagoans land trade jobs.”

Lawndale News
April 22, 2021
“UNITE HERE Chicago Hospitality Institute (UHCHI), HIRE360, Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) and SAVOR announced the first-ever UHCHI Culinary Apprenticeship Class in preparation of the return of hospitality. The eight-week program kicked off Monday and served a diverse group of students, many of whom had been laid off from their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Mass Transit Magazine
April 21, 2021
“The CTA has taken a conscientious and intentional approach to transforming large-scale megaprojects like the RPM Phase One Project into opportunities for Chicagoans. CTA works with two workforce assistance agencies, HIRE360 and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, to recruit economically disadvantaged candidates for career opportunities related to RPM and other large projects.”

Politico
April 21, 2021
“Getting ready for the hospitality industry’s return: ‘The eight-week culinary program includes McCormick Place cooks who were laid off at the beginning of the pandemic,’ by Sun-Times’ Grace Asiegbu.”

Chicago Sun-Times
April 19, 2021
“COVID-19 devastated the hospitality industry, leaving many without jobs,” said Jay Rowell, executive director of HIRE360. “We are proud to advocate for UHCHI, which reflects the comeback of the hospitality industry and the immediate need for talent to fill a surge in jobs.” HIRE360, a nonprofit that connects underserved minority businesses and communities to jobs in the building trades, applied for the apprenticeship grant to recruit for and fund the training.”

WGN
April 19, 2021
“An amalgamation among Unite Here Chicago Hospitality Institute, Hire 360, McPier and Savor are starting the first-ever apprenticeship class. When students graduate, each will have the main ingredients needed to walk into any top-notch Chicago kitchen ready to go.”

CBS2 Chicago
April 19, 2021
“Some students are getting special training in the culinary field starting today. An 8-week culinary apprenticeship class is underway at McCormick Place, students will learn skills to get a job when the hospitality industry eventually bounces back.”

ABC 7 Chicago
April 19, 2021
“A culinary apprenticeship class is kicking off in Chicago in preparation for the eventual return of the city’s hospitality industry. Culinary students and others in the business are sharing their hopes for the hospitality industry in a post-pandemic world.”

WBBM Newsradio
April 19, 2021
“As Chicago’s restaurant industry emerges from COVID-19 shutdowns and restrictions, a new apprenticeship program kicked off Monday at McCormick Place. Alfredo Contreras learned how to make chicken stock during his first class. The 24-year-old from Logan Square has worked for Levy Restaurants, although the pandemic put a lid on things for awhile.”

WGN TV
April 1, 2021
“HIRE360 is a non-profit that connects community members with careers in the trades, focusing on finding trade careers for minorities and women, especially in underserved neighborhoods. Chynna Hampton, Director of Workforce Development, spoke about some multi-million-dollar projects, including the Obama Presidential Center, that the group is recruiting for in Chicago. Hear how you can apply and what they’re looking for to get hired.”

WGN TV
April 1, 2021
“HIRE360 is a non-profit that connects community members with careers in the trades, focusing on finding trade careers for minorities and women, especially in underserved neighborhoods. Chynna Hampton, Director of Workforce Development, spoke about some multi-million-dollar projects, including the Obama Presidential Center, that the group is recruiting for in Chicago. Hear how you can apply and what they’re looking for to get hired.”

Archinect
March 31, 2021
“Moore also connected with Chynna Hampton, director of workforce development at HIRE360, another organization collaborating with the Foundation. ‘I think the construction industry already is pushing toward that diversity initiative,’ shared Hampton, ‘but this sticks the pin in it to make sure we’re pushing it forward and say it doesn’t stop here.'”

Adelante Chicago
March 27, 2021
“Building back after the pandemic, HIRE360 is introducing new opportunities for many underserved communities here in Chicago. Have you heard of HIRE360? The organization is laying out some of the programs meant to help underserved communities.”

ABC 7 Chicago
March 26, 2021
“Winchester said M&R is still hiring right now for careers that don’t require four year college degrees, pay well, and can put anyone on a path to growth. “If they can do it, I can do it,” Salazar said. “That’s how I’ve always been. I wouldn’t choose anything else. Manufacturing, doing hands-on work, has always been my life.” To learn more about open manufacturing positions available, you can visit Away Staffing and M & R Print. To learn more about how to train in manufacturing, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership and Hire360 Chicago can help.”

Adelante Chicago on Facebook
March 25, 2021
“And building back after the pandemic, HIRE360 is introducing new opportunities for many underserved communities here in Chicago.”

Chicago Defender
March 23, 2021
“It has been predicted that the construction industry has the potential to quickly jump-start the economy post-COVID and Hire360 is deliberately working to invest in minority, Black, and women-owned companies to support the Chicago workforce. Hire360 is an innovative construction industry partnership between developers, general contractors, and labor unions to build an ecosystem that creates careers and supports business ventures. Even amid a pandemic, the construction industry is one of the few sectors that have always been able to safely work and social distance so the impact of Hire360 has increased substantially.”

WGN Radio
March 18, 2021
“Then, Hire360’s Executive Director Jay Rowell talks about what they do and the upcoming Chicago Developers Conference, a joint event with Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council. Hire360’s Executive Director Jay Rowell and ChicagoMDC’s J. Vincent Williams talk about the mission of both organizations and the ground-breaking virtual conference their organizations are hosting.”

The Architects Newspaper
March 15, 2021
“Virtual job training sessions, hosted in partnership with Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT), HIRE360, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Revolution Workshop, and St. Paul’s Community Development Ministries, will be held in the coming months in order to “ recruit new tradespeople, address their barriers to entry, work with labor unions to assign them to apprenticeships, and place them on projects across the city,” according to the Foundation.”

Patch
March 12, 2021
“Technical assistance to help businesses navigate the PPP application and loan forgiveness process will be provided initially by InUrban Strategies, LLC and Hire360, with additional technical assistance providers for PPP and 7(a) to be named later. The $25 million fund will allow eligible applicants to access Paycheck Protection Program loans and SBA 7(a) eligible loans issued by CRF.”

Chicago Sun-Times
March 11, 2021
“The foundation has pledged $850,000 to partner organizations dealing with workforce development — Chicago Women in Trades, HIRE360, Revolution Workshop and St. Paul’s Community Development Ministries — to cover costs for getting people into the training pipeline”

Chicago Defender
March 11, 2021
“The announcement of the OPC Construction Workforce Initiative kicks off what will be a months-long effort to host virtual job training across the South and West sides in partnership with Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT), HIRE360, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Revolution Workshop, and St. Paul’s Community Development Ministries. This effort targets those who have previously been left out of the industry – including young people, returning citizens, and women. The goal is to recruit new tradespeople, address their barriers to entry, work with labor unions to assign them to apprenticeships, and place them on projects across the city.”

Chicago Defender
March 11, 2021
“Technical assistance to help businesses navigate the PPP application and loan forgiveness process will be provided initially by InUrban Strategies, LLC and Hire360, with additional technical assistance providers for PPP and 7(a) to be named later. The $25 million fund will allow eligible applicants to access Paycheck Protection Program loans and SBA 7(a) eligible loans issued by CRF. The application process is open now.”

WBEZ
March 11, 2021
“Chynna Hampton, director of workforce development at HIRE360, said the OPC will be a catalyst for diversity on future projects such as the recently announced Michael Reese project, the site of a former hospital in Bronzeville. ‘I think the construction industry already is pushing toward that diversity initiative, but this sticks the pin in it to make sure we’re pushing it forward and say it doesn’t stop here,’ Hampton said.”

Crain’s Chicago Business
March 10, 2021
“The Obama Presidential Center is partnering with workforce organizations including the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, Chicago Women in Trades, HIRE360, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Revolution Workshop, and St. Paul’s Community Development Ministries. Interested applicants can apply here.”

Crain’s Chicago Business
February 12, 2021
“A new nonprofit, Hire360, helps African Americans, Latinos and women navigate admission, which can be tricky because programs aren’t scheduled on a regular basis like a college semester. Sessions are opened when there is demand from contractor employers. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalency, a driver’s license and access to transportation, and must also pass an aptitude test that demonstrates math skills and spatial reasoning.”

Germaine Law Firm
January 12, 2021
“Jay Rowell of HIRE360 joins the show today to discuss all things recruitment, training, job placement, diversity, and more.”

Chicago Sun-Times
January 4, 2021
“‘I want to show people that you can do this work in your neighborhood and make a living,’ developer Leon Walker said.”

Crain’s Chicago Business
December 18, 2020
“It’s time to reimagine inclusion outside of workforce and small business support, starting with the supply chain, says a Related Midwest exec.”

Chicago Tribune
December 17, 2020
“Next year is setting up as quite the balancing act for commercial real estate and development in Chicago.”

HIRE360
December 10, 2020
Annual Report, 2020.

Chicago Sun-Times
November 30, 2020
“Hire360 provides entrepreneurs, particularly minorities and women, the tools to manage a feast-or-famine business.”

Crain’s Chicago Business
October 9, 2020
“The demand for tradespeople is expected to grow, and minorities and women represent an untapped pool of labor. “Chicago is at a crossroads,” says Jay Rowell, executive director at HIRE360.”

ABC 7 Chicago
June 11, 2020
“HIRE360 helps connect unemployed tradespeople from all over the city with work.”

Crain’s Chicago Business
February 27, 2020
“A few big firms in Chicago are taking steps to diversify their workforces through apprentice programs that break down color and gender barriers to midlevel jobs. But federal data shows those are still the exception.”

Chicago Crusader
December 27, 2019
“Unique program will advance opportunities for community members and local businesses in manufacturing, construction, hospitality and the professional services industries.”

ENR Midwest
December 11, 2019
“Group has $1.7-million Budget for 2020, will offer everything from counseling to boots for applicants.”