PBC Establish Partnership to Mentor and Grow Minority and Women Business Enterprises

For Immediate Release                                                                                                                                                                                          Bryant Payne – Public Building Commission,
September 20, 2022                                                                                                                                                                                                (312) 742-0878

 

The Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC) and HIRE360 have partnered to increase minority and women job seekers participation on PBC’s construction or renovation projects.

“HIRE360 was founded on the premise of increasing opportunity for communities that are rich in talent, but often lack the resources necessary to grow and thrive,” said Jay Rowell, Executive Director of HIRE360. “Our partnership with Government Agencies like the Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago Housing Authority, and now the PBC will allow us to further reach into those communities and provide underrepresented populations with an expansion of employment opportunities that will ultimately strengthen the communities as a whole.”

The PBC and HIRE360 will have targeted information on their respective websites where contractors can enter position details and be connected directly with pre-screened qualified candidates. In addition, HIRE360 will assist career seekers with placement into trade unions and the necessary vocational training/resources to connect construction employers to a skilled talent pipeline.

“Our partnership with HIRE360 will strengthen the participation of underrepresented populations in the Chicago area,” Carina E. Sanchez, PBC Executive Director said.  “HIRE360 will help to provide ongoing support for community residents in the construction industries through recruitment, training and placement assistance.”

PBC contracts include goals and requirements intended to promote a diverse local workforce ad business participation on projects. These provisions encourage competitive business opportunities for minority and women business enterprises in its delivery of construction and professional services, while supporting the use of minority and female journeyworkes, apprentices and laborers. HIRE360 will assist in bolstering participation for minorities and women job seekers.

“The PBC focuses on economic sustainability in project and program development,” Sanchez said. “This partnership is crucial step in an important chain of events that ultimately strengthens communities.”

About the PBC: The Public Building Commission of Chicago manages construction and renovation projects for the City of Chicago and its sister agencies. Mayor Lori Lightfoot serves as the PBC’s Chairman. Carina E. Sanchez serves as the Executive Director of the PBC. Additional information about the PBC and its projects can be found at www.pbcchicago.com. You can also follow the Public Building Commission of Chicago on TwitterFacebook, and LinkedIn