Illinois e-News Release

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Feb. 1, 2023                                                                                Paul Wappel           217.685.0082

                                                                                                    Maria Castaneda    312.447.1919

Skills-building, networking event aims to grow diversity on state projects

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting the 32nd "Today's Challenge, Tomorrow's Reward" conference on Feb. 15 and 16 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. Hosted by IDOT’s Office of Business and Workforce Diversity, the conference provides female- and minority-owned businesses with opportunities to make connections and develop skills to grow and succeed.

“‘Today’s Challenge, Tomorrow’s Reward’ can be a life-changing experience for women- and minority-owned firms by opening doors to grow and expand our small business community,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Thanks to the historic Rebuild Illinois capital program and unprecedented investments happening at the federal level, there has never been a better time to be involved in transportation. Under Gov. Pritzker, IDOT is striving to make projects more diverse and inclusive, resulting in greater competition on contracts and driving down costs for the public. ‘Today’s Challenge, Tomorrow’s Reward’ gives you the tools you need to help us meet our goal.”

Conference topics include work category expansion, funding, training opportunities, “getting paid” and credit restoration. Industry leaders and IDOT staff also will be leading sessions on how to bid on, participate in and deliver projects. Speakers include Jarrett Payton, WGN sports anchor and son of late NFL Hall-of-Famer Walter Payton.

The event is attended by subcontractors and prime contractors in construction, trucking, engineering and other consulting services. Visit idot.illinois.gov or click here for registration information and other details. The conference will be held in person, with a virtual option available. Those who register for the conference will receive links to view the general session on Feb. 15 and the keynote address, award presentation and additional workshops on Feb. 16.

Walk-ins are welcome during the conference.