Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran has introduced a new bill designed to support engineering students at public universities in Illinois and encourage them to join the state’s engineering workforce after graduation.
Senate Bill 3855, known as the Engineering Students of Illinois Scholarship Act, would provide scholarships for eligible engineering students. In return, recipients would be required to work for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for at least three years following graduation.
“Our worldclass universities are educating some of the finest engineers in the country,” said Curran. “I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this legislation to encourage more engineering students to stay in Illinois and share their talents and education helping to improve infrastructure for millions of people in our state.”
The bill was introduced during Engineers Week, which highlights the contributions engineers make to society and underscores the need for new talent in the field.
Kevin Artl, President and CEO of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois, commented on the importance of strengthening the pipeline for future engineers. “Looking ahead, one of the greatest opportunities for the engineering profession—and the state overall– is strengthening the pipeline of future engineers,” said Artl. “The projects that will shape Illinois over the next generation will require creative, well-trained problem solvers- our own Illinois engineering students are needed in the workforce now more than ever.”
Engineering plays a significant role in Illinois’ economy, contributing $20.7 billion annually to its GDP and supporting over 182,000 jobs statewide. However, as many engineers retire and fewer graduates enter the field, there is concern about maintaining a robust workforce.
Chief cosponsor Senator Don DeWitte stated: “This scholarship program is a smart investment in Illinois’ future workforce. By helping more students pursue engineering degrees and connecting them directly to careers with the Illinois Department of Transportation, we are building a strong pipeline of homegrown talent ready to design, maintain, and improve our transportation system. At a time when demand for skilled engineers continues to grow, this initiative supports students and ensures Illinois has the expertise needed to deliver safe and reliable roads and bridges for decades to come.”
Recent national research indicates an annual shortage of about 18,000 engineers due to retirements outpacing new graduates entering the profession. This trend highlights why states like Illinois are seeking ways to attract and retain engineering talent.
Cosponsor Senator Seth Lewis added: “Engineering is at the heart of building and maintaining the infrastructure and innovation that keeps Illinois moving forward. Our universities are educating some of the brightest engineering students in the nation, and we have a responsibility to create meaningful career pathways that encourage them to build their futures here at home. By connecting students directly to in-demand careers in Illinois after graduation, this legislation helps ensure our state retains the talent needed to become the next generation of engineers.”
SB3855 has been introduced in the Senate and awaits committee assignment.
If enacted, administration of scholarships under this act would be handled by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission from July 1, 2027 through July 1, 2031.
Curran was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 41st Senate District in 2017.
