Construction Opportunities

The Obama Foundation is committed to creating a diverse, local construction workforce for this project—and we want you to be a part of it. Whether you’re looking for your first job, returning to the workforce, or anywhere in between, we are here to provide you with the training and support you need to secure a well-paying construction job with the Obama Presidential Center or other exciting projects in Chicago.

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President Obama drills into a piece of furniture as Mrs. Obama looks on.

Our Partners

The Lakeside Alliance

The Lakeside Alliance is leading the construction of the Obama Presidential Center and brings together four of the largest, most respected African-American-owned firms in Chicago, with one of the largest construction management firms in the United States.

Members of the consortium include: HIRE360, Chicago Women in Trades, the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, IBEW Local 134, Revolution Workshop, and St. Paul Community Development Ministries.

We Have Ambitious Goals

We believe the Obama Presidential Center should be built by a team that looks like the Center’s surrounding community, and we’re working hard to make sure that happens.

50%

of our work will be done by businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities or people who identify as LGBTQ+.
50%

of the Center’s on-site construction work will be performed by Chicago residents.

Learn more about the Lakeside Alliance

We Can Build It Consortium

This initiative was created to get more local residents involved in the building trades. We Can Build It is committed to building a pipeline of diverse talent that is not only equipped to build the Obama Presidential Center, but is also prepared to participate in future projects across the city. We have committed $850,000 to train 400 new apprentices from the South and West Sides.

From outreach to test preparation and job placement, the consortium is ready to help any Chicagoan—no matter their background or experience—establish a successful career in construction.

Learn more about We Can Build It

Obama Foundation Jobs

Join a world class team working to move people from Hope to Action in order to better their communities.