Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is set to host the 33rd "Today's Challenge, Tomorrow's Reward" conference on February 21 and 22 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. Organized by IDOT's Office of Business and Workforce Diversity, this event aims to provide female- and minority-owned businesses with opportunities for networking and skill development.

"'Today's Challenge, Tomorrow's Reward' can open doors that lead to new, exciting paths to grow your business and positively impact your community while helping IDOT make projects more diverse and inclusive," stated Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. He added that under Governor Pritzker and the Rebuild Illinois capital program, there are record levels of investment in transportation infrastructure.

The conference will feature workshops designed to enhance skills, seminars on best practices, and networking opportunities for firms interested in working with the state through the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program. Topics covered will include work category expansion, funding, training opportunities, payment processes, and construction safety. Sessions led by industry leaders and IDOT staff will guide participants on bidding for projects.

Notable speakers at the event include Bradley Mims from the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, as well as Aaron Davis—a national football champion from the University of Nebraska who is also an author, businessman, and cancer survivor.

Subcontractors and prime contractors involved in construction, trucking, engineering, and consulting services are expected to attend. Registration details can be found on idot.illinois.gov or through provided links. The conference offers both in-person attendance with a virtual option available. Registrants will receive links for viewing sessions scheduled over the two days.

Walk-ins are welcome during the event.