For Immediate Release
September 18, 2025
Bryant Payne – Public Building Commission
Director of Communications
(312) 742-0878
Event Highlighted Career Pathways in Design, Engineering, and Construction Industries
CHICAGO, IL – As part of its ongoing Student Employment Initiative, the Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC) hosted an orientation session for students enrolled in Chicago Public Schools’ (CPS) Chicago Builds Program (Chicago Builds). Chicago Builds is a citywide, two-year, off-campus construction training initiative for high school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing careers in the construction industry after graduation.
“Every student’s career path is unique,” said CPS Board President Sean B. Harden. “We are grateful for our partnership with the PBC because it supports our future graduates who seek careers in the skilled trades industry. This program gives them the knowledge, training and exposure that can open doors that lead to career opportunities in that industry.”
In partnership with the Chicago Board of Education, the PBC welcomed Chicago Builds students to the Daley Center for an exciting day highlighting meaningful career pathways in all aspects of public development, including but not limited to design, engineering, construction, and program management. Various contractors and professional service firms attended the event, offering students the chance to network with experts and explore career options.
“Supporting these future professionals is a priority for the PBC,” Ray Giderof, PBC Executive Director said. “We are proud to connect CPS students with the resources, mentorship, and real-world insights they need to succeed in these high-demand fields.”
The event was one of several events organized under the PBC’s Student Employment Initiative, which aims to build stronger pathways from education to employment for young Chicagoans.