ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL | Oct. 26, 2026 – Associated Builders and Contractors of Illinois (ABC Illinois) is pleased to announce Eric Poole as its new Workforce Development Director. Poole brings extensive experience in workforce development, employer engagement, career readiness, and program management, with a focus on connecting individuals with meaningful employment opportunities and helping employers meet their workforce needs.
Poole most recently served as Workforce Development Program Manager at Metropolitan Family Services, where he oversaw multiple workforce development programs, managed community partnerships, and led initiatives to expand employment opportunities. In this role, he achieved more than a 100% increase in client service outcomes through strategic program development and mentoring initiatives.
His previous experience includes serving as a Workforce Development Industry Representative with Hire360 Chicago, where he cultivated relationships with developers, general contractors, subcontractors, and labor organizations to connect job seekers with employment and apprenticeship opportunities. He also served as a liaison for the Illinois Tollway Construction Works program and secured 150 job orders through strategic industry partnerships.
“Workforce development is essential to the long-term success of our industry, and connecting our members with the talent they need remains a priority for ABC Illinois,” said Alicia Martin, President and CEO of ABC Illinois. “Eric’s experience building employer partnerships and expanding access to career and apprenticeship opportunities will be a tremendous asset as we continue working to strengthen Illinois’ construction workforce. We’re excited to welcome him to the team and look forward to the impact he will make for our members and the industry.”
Throughout his career, Poole has worked to strengthen connections between employers, training providers, community organizations, and job seekers. His background in workforce development, recruitment, training, and strategic partnerships will support ABC Illinois’ ongoing efforts to strengthen the construction workforce and help members address their workforce needs.
Poole holds a Master of Human Resource Management and a Master of Business Administration from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from Westwood College.
ABC Illinois looks forward to welcoming Poole to the team and building on its commitment to workforce development, industry partnerships, and the long-term success of Illinois’ merit shop construction industry.