Our Mission

Connecting the Community to Construction

Our mission is to use local development projects to build a bridge between Chicago’s communities and the construction industry. We bring a spirit of creative collaboration that drives innovative outreach solutions, stimulates economic growth, and fosters collaboration between community stakeholders including, residents, public officials, and developers.

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Who We Are

Communities Empowered Through Construction is an award-winning talent management and diversity consulting firm. We specialize in creative outreach solutions, establishing strategic community partnerships, and building a strong workforce. We are committed to the city's residents and developing a diverse construction community in Chicago.

Membership Has its Privileges

CEC maintains a database of approved Chicago residents who have gone through our professional development program and have been employed on many of the city's projects. After completing our program, candidates are members of a community that is vested in their success!

Support Our Approved Candidates Can Count On

A Trusted Partner in Diversity and Inclusion

Stellar Service for Our Client Partners

  • Training and professional coaching
  • Connection to viable construction industry employment opportunities 
  • Ongoing professional and personal support
  • Connection to vital construction resources and events

CEC’s holistic approach to talent management and strategic diversity programs is evident by our project portfolio and key workforce partners.  From public to private, commercial to residential, our history of driving diversity and compliance has made us trusted partners with developers, community organizations, and general contractors across the city.

  • Manage community outreach and engagement strategy
  • Identify qualified candidates from the community
  • Monitor minority participation and compliance on construction projects
  • Subcontractor support and referrals
  • Marketing and communications support