Speakers

Renée Jones is the Director of Programs at Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT), where she leads workforce development and training programs that prepare and support women pursuing careers in the construction and manufacturing industries. A journeywoman electrician and IBEW Local 134 alumna, Renée brings both firsthand experience in the skilled trades and a background in social services to her work advancing opportunities for women in the industry.

Born and raised in Chicago’s West Garfield community, Renée is a graduate of Chicago Public Schools and earned her bachelor’s degree from Lewis University. She began her professional career in social services before discovering her passion for skilled trades through volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. That experience sparked her interest in hands-on work and led her to participate in a pre-apprenticeship program, ultimately opening the door to an electrical apprenticeship with IBEW Local 134, where she became a journeywoman electrician.

Today, Renée has come full circle, combining her experience as a tradeswoman, educator, and social-service professional to help women enter, succeed, and advance in the skilled trades. Through her leadership at CWIT, she is committed to breaking down barriers, expanding access to apprenticeship and career opportunities, and ensuring that women have the training, support, and resources needed to build sustainable careers in the trades.

Renée is a passionate advocate for creating stronger pathways into the trades and for building a construction industry where women are not only welcomed, but have the opportunity to thrive, advance, and lead.