California Apprenticeship Programs

California Apprenticeship Programs

California Apprenticeship Programs

California Apprenticeship Resource Guide

Find Registered Apprenticeships, apprenticeship sponsors, community-college programs, youth apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, workforce assistance, regional resources, and other earn-and-learn opportunities across California.

Resources verified: August 2026

What Is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is an earn-and-learn approach that combines paid work with training for an occupation.

You learn by doing the job while earning a paycheck.

Depending on the employer and program, the training may be highly structured—or it may be more informal and employer-designed.

The details vary.

That is why it is important to understand what type of apprenticeship you are considering.

🟦 Registered Apprenticeship

A Registered Apprenticeship is a specific, formally approved type of apprenticeship.

Unlike the broader use of the word apprenticeship, Registered Apprenticeship follows defined standards and is reviewed and registered by an authorized government apprenticeship agency.

A Registered Apprenticeship includes:

  • Paid employment — you are employed and earn wages while training.
  • Structured On-the-Job Learning — the program establishes what you will learn in the workplace.
  • Approved Related Instruction — technical or classroom learning follows an established curriculum connected with the occupation.
  • Experienced mentoring — you learn under the guidance of skilled, experienced workers.
  • Defined pay progression — the program establishes starting pay and increases tied to increasing skills or progress.
  • Defined training requirements — the program establishes the time, competencies, or combination of requirements needed for completion.
  • Government review and registration — the program's standards are reviewed and registered by an authorized apprenticeship agency.
  • Recognized completion credential — successful completion leads to a recognized apprenticeship completion credential.

The key distinction is simple:

  • An apprenticeship can be employer-designed.
  • A Registered Apprenticeship must meet defined standards.

🟩 Employer / Unregistered Apprenticeship

Some employers offer apprenticeships that are not Registered Apprenticeships.

These can still be excellent paid career pathways.

They may provide:

  • Structured workplace training
  • Mentoring
  • Wage increases
  • Technical or classroom instruction
  • Industry credentials
  • College credit
  • Advancement into skilled employment

These features vary by employer and program.

Before accepting an employer apprenticeship, ask:

  • How is the training organized?
  • Who will train and mentor me?
  • How long does the program last?
  • What skills will I learn?
  • How does my pay increase?
  • Is technical or classroom instruction included?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • What job will I be qualified for when I finish?

Why Registered Apprenticeship Gets Special Attention

Both Registered and employer-designed apprenticesiceships can provide valuable paid career training.

Registered Apprenticeship receives special attention because the program has been formally reviewed and registered and must follow established apprenticeship standards.

That gives you greater clarity about:

  • What you will learn
  • How you will be trained
  • Who will mentor you
  • How your wages will progress
  • What completion requires
  • What credential you will earn

California has one of the largest and most diverse apprenticeship systems in the United States.

Registered Apprenticeship extends across fields such as:

  • Construction and skilled trades
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Public service
  • Utilities
  • Hospitality
  • Agriculture
  • Other occupations

That is why this guide begins with Registered Apprenticeship programs, sponsors, colleges, and official resources.

Other employer apprenticeships and paid earn-and-learn pathways are covered later in the guide.

How This Guide Is Organized

Use the sections that match what you need.

  • 🟦 Registered Apprenticeship — California's official apprenticeship resources, program searches, sponsors, Apprenticeship.com, and Apprenticeship.gov.
  • 🟪 Community College & College-Connected Apprenticeship — California Community Colleges, Related Instruction, college credit, certificates, and degrees.
  • 🟨 Youth Apprenticeship — high-school and young-adult pathways, CTE, and resources for students, parents, and counselors.
  • 🟧 Pre-Apprenticeship — preparation programs and pathways into Registered Apprenticeship.
  • 👷 Sponsors & Industry Programs — unions, employers, intermediaries, and established apprenticeship programs.
  • 🏛️ Government & Public-Sector Resources — state and local government, transportation, utilities, education, and public employers.
  • 📍 Regional & Local Resources — Los Angeles, San Diego, Bay Area, Sacramento, Central Valley, Inland Empire, and other regions with recommended occupations and direct resources.
  • 🟥 Specialized Resources — veterans, transitioning service members, people with disabilities, women in nontraditional careers, reentry, opportunity youth, and other groups.
  • 🟩 Beyond Registered Apprenticeship — employer/unregistered apprenticeship, OJT, paid Work-Based Learning, co-op, employer-paid training, and trainee programs.

For definitions of WBL, OJT, RTI, co-op, pre-apprenticeship, and other workforce terms, see the Apprenticeship & Earn-and-Learn Glossary on the Apprenticeship.com Resource Guides page.

What the Colored Squares Mean

  • 🟦 Registered Apprenticeship
  • 🟪 College & Education-Connected Apprenticeship
  • 🟨 Youth Apprenticeship
  • 🟧 Pre-Apprenticeship
  • 🟩 Other Paid Earn-and-Learn
  • 🟥 Military & Specialized Career Resources
  • ⬛ Search, Workforce & Discovery Resources

Other symbols identify industries or resource types such as government, construction, healthcare, education, manufacturing, utilities, and transportation.

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=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 1B ===

🟩 Best Places to Start

California has several unusually strong apprenticeship search systems.

Use more than one.

🟦 California Division of Apprenticeship Standards

The California Division of Apprenticeship Standards — DAS is part of the California Department of Industrial Relations.

DAS administers and supports California apprenticeship.

Use DAS to investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Approved apprenticeship programs
  • Apprenticeship standards
  • Sponsors
  • Apprenticeship occupations
  • State apprenticeship resources

🟦 California Apprenticeship Search

California provides an official search system for apprenticeship programs.

Search by:

  • Occupation
  • County
  • Apprenticeship program
  • Geographic area

This is especially useful because an established apprenticeship may exist even when it is not currently advertising a vacancy.

🟦 Apprenticeship.gov

Use federal resources alongside California's state search system.

Use:

  • Job Finder for current opportunities.
  • Partner Finder to identify sponsors and apprenticeship partners.

⬛ Apprenticeship.com

Use Apprenticeship.com as an additional apprenticeship and earn-and-learn discovery resource.

If Registered Apprenticeship status matters, verify the program through California DAS or another authoritative state or federal source.

⬛ CalJOBS

CalJOBS is California's statewide employment and workforce system.

Search:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Maintenance trainee
  • Operator trainee
  • Helper
  • Paid training
  • Co-op
  • Development program

⬛ America's Job Center of California

California's local workforce centers can help career seekers with employment, training, and apprenticeship resources.

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Current apprentice recruiting
  • WIOA
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Occupational training
  • Youth programs
  • Employer recruiting
  • Supportive services

No Opening Today?

Do not assume an apprenticeship has disappeared because there is no current job posting.

If you find a California program that interests you:

  • Identify the sponsor through DAS.
  • Visit the sponsor's website.
  • Check application periods.
  • Search Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder.
  • Contact the Related Instruction provider.
  • Ask your local America's Job Center.
  • Join an interest list if one is available.
  • Ask when applications reopen.

The goal is to identify both current openings and established programs that may recruit later.

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🟪 California Community College & College-Connected Apprenticeship

California Community Colleges are major partners in the state's apprenticeship system.

Depending on the program, a community college may:

  • Provide Related and Supplemental Instruction
  • Partner with an apprenticeship sponsor
  • Work with employers and unions
  • Award college credit
  • Provide certificates or degree pathways
  • Support pre-apprenticeship
  • Connect apprenticeship with additional education

An important distinction:

The employer or apprenticeship sponsor generally provides the paid apprenticeship job.

Do not assume that enrolling in a college program automatically makes you an apprentice.

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors work with this college?
  • Which employers are hiring apprentices?
  • Do I apply to the employer, sponsor, union, or college first?
  • Does the college provide Related and Supplemental Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship training earn college credit?
  • Can apprenticeship lead toward a certificate or degree?
  • Who pays for the instruction?

🟪 California Community Colleges Apprenticeship

California's community-college system supports apprenticeship in both traditional and emerging industries.

Career areas can include:

  • Construction
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Public service
  • Hospitality
  • Other occupations

🟪 California Apprenticeship Initiative

The California Apprenticeship Initiative — CAI has helped expand apprenticeship into new industries and occupations through California Community Colleges.

CAI-supported expansion has helped apprenticeship grow beyond traditional building trades.

When researching a CAI-related program, ask:

  • Is the program currently operating?
  • Is it a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Which employer or sponsor provides the paid job?
  • Which college provides instruction?
  • Can the apprentice earn college credit?
  • Is the program currently recruiting?

🟪 Apprenticeship & College Credit

California apprentices may be able to earn college credit for qualifying apprenticeship instruction.

Depending on the program, apprenticeship can connect with:

  • College coursework
  • Certificates
  • Associate degrees
  • Industry credentials
  • Continued postsecondary education

Ask:

  • Does Related Instruction carry college credit?
  • How many credits can I earn?
  • Can the credits apply to an associate degree?
  • Can credits transfer?
  • Does apprenticeship completion lead to an additional college credential?

🟪 Los Angeles Community College District

The Los Angeles Community College District serves one of the nation's largest regional labor markets.

Career seekers should investigate apprenticeship and employer-connected programs across the district in areas such as:

  • Construction
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Information technology
  • Skilled trades

Ask the individual college which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors it currently supports.

🟪 San Diego & Imperial Counties Community Colleges

Community colleges in the San Diego and Imperial regions provide career education connected with major regional industries.

Investigate pathways in:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Biotechnology
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Skilled trades

🟪 Bay Area Community Colleges

Bay Area colleges can support apprenticeship and workforce education across:

  • Construction
  • Technology
  • Healthcare
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Transportation
  • Public-sector careers
  • Utilities

Use:

Search the apprenticeship sponsor first, then identify its education partner.

🟪 Central Valley Community Colleges

Central Valley colleges serve industries such as:

  • Agriculture
  • Food production
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Construction
  • Utilities

Use the California Community Colleges directory together with the DAS apprenticeship search to identify local connections.

Questions to Ask a California Community College

Ask:

  • Which apprenticeship sponsors do you currently work with?
  • Which occupations are supported?
  • Which employers hire apprentices?
  • Does the college provide Related and Supplemental Instruction?
  • Is the instruction credit-bearing?
  • Can I earn a certificate or degree?
  • Are pre-apprenticeship programs available?
  • Are paid Work-Based Learning or co-op opportunities available?
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=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 1D ===

🟨 California Youth Apprenticeship

California is expanding youth apprenticeship and earn-and-learn pathways for high-school students and young adults.

Youth apprenticeship can connect:

  • Education
  • Paid employment
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Work-Based Learning
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • College credit

Start with:

🟨 California Youth Apprenticeship Committee

California established a Youth Apprenticeship Committee within the state's apprenticeship system to support youth apprenticeship development.

Youth apprenticeship can help create pathways connecting:

  • High schools
  • Community colleges
  • Employers
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Workforce organizations

Students should ask whether a local youth apprenticeship is:

  • A Registered Apprenticeship
  • Connected to a Registered Apprenticeship
  • A pre-apprenticeship
  • Another paid Work-Based Learning pathway

🟨 Career Technical Education

California Career Technical Education provides career preparation across industry sectors.

  • 🟨 California Department of Education — Career Technical Education — Explore CTE

CTE can help students prepare for careers in areas such as:

  • Building and construction trades
  • Engineering and architecture
  • Health science
  • Information and communication technologies
  • Manufacturing
  • Transportation
  • Agriculture
  • Public services
  • Hospitality

Ask whether the local CTE pathway connects with:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Employers
  • Community colleges
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Industry credentials

🟨 For Parents & Counselors

Parents and counselors can help students distinguish among:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • CTE
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Community-college technical education

Ask:

  • Is the student an employee?
  • Is the opportunity paid?
  • Is it a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Which employer participates?
  • What occupational skills will the student learn?
  • What credential can the student earn?
  • Can the student earn college credit?
  • What happens after completion?

🟧 California Pre-Apprenticeship

Pre-apprenticeship prepares participants to enter and succeed in apprenticeship.

It is not Registered Apprenticeship.

A pre-apprenticeship may provide:

  • Career exploration
  • Occupational preparation
  • Hands-on training
  • Safety training
  • Workplace readiness
  • Industry credentials
  • Employer exposure
  • Connections with Registered Apprenticeship sponsors

Pre-apprenticeship may be:

  • Paid
  • Stipend-supported
  • Unpaid

Before enrolling, ask:

  • Is the program free?
  • Is there a wage or stipend?
  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors participate?
  • What occupation does the program prepare me for?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Does completion provide preferred consideration or advanced standing?
  • What paid opportunity can follow?

🟧 California Apprenticeship Readiness Programs

California has apprenticeship-readiness and pre-apprenticeship programs connected with construction and other industries.

These programs can help participants prepare for:

  • Apprenticeship applications
  • Construction math
  • Workplace expectations
  • Safety
  • Physical requirements
  • Interviews
  • Industry careers

Use:

Ask the pre-apprenticeship provider which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors recognize or recruit from the program.

🟧 Evaluate Where Pre-Apprenticeship Leads

A strong pathway should provide a clear bridge:

  • Career preparation
  • Occupational skills
  • Employer or sponsor connections
  • Application assistance
  • Entry into paid apprenticeship or employment

Do not evaluate pre-apprenticeship only by the classes it provides.

Evaluate where participants go next.

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=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 2A ===

👷 California Apprenticeship Sponsors & Industry Programs

California has thousands of apprenticeship opportunities across traditional trades and newer occupations.

Finding them requires more than searching current job postings.

A Registered Apprenticeship sponsor may be:

  • An individual employer
  • A group of employers
  • A union
  • A joint labor-management organization
  • An industry association
  • A public agency
  • A college or education organization
  • An apprenticeship intermediary
  • Another approved organization

Use:

When you identify a sponsor, ask:

  • Which occupations do you train?
  • When do applications open?
  • How often do you recruit?
  • What geographic area do you serve?
  • What are the entry requirements?
  • Is testing required?
  • Where is Related Instruction provided?
  • What is the starting wage?
  • How does wage progression work?

👷 Building & Construction Trades

California has an extensive construction apprenticeship system.

Search Registered Apprenticeship in:

  • Electrician
  • Carpenter
  • Plumber
  • Pipefitter
  • Steamfitter
  • Sheet-metal worker
  • HVAC technician
  • Ironworker
  • Operating engineer
  • Laborer
  • Cement mason
  • Painter
  • Glazier
  • Roofer
  • Elevator constructor
  • Other construction trades

Use the DAS search by:

  • Occupation
  • County
  • Program

Do not assume one apprenticeship sponsor serves all of California.

Construction programs often have defined geographic jurisdictions.

👷 Joint Apprenticeship Programs

Many California building-trade apprenticeships are operated through joint labor-management apprenticeship committees.

Before applying, confirm:

  • Registered Apprenticeship status
  • Application period
  • Geographic jurisdiction
  • Starting wage
  • Wage progression
  • Related Instruction
  • Training location
  • Testing requirements
  • Fees
  • Physical requirements where applicable

🏭 Advanced Manufacturing

California's manufacturing economy creates apprenticeship opportunities in:

  • Industrial maintenance
  • Machining
  • Mechatronics
  • Automation
  • Robotics
  • Electronics
  • Aerospace manufacturing
  • Food manufacturing
  • Precision manufacturing

Recommended searches:

  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Maintenance mechanic apprentice

💻 Information Technology & Digital Careers

California apprenticeship has expanded into technology and professional occupations.

Recommended searches:

  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Software developer apprentice
  • Help-desk technician
  • Network technician
  • Data analyst apprentice
  • Cloud technician
  • Digital marketing apprentice

Use:

  • California DAS
  • Apprenticeship.gov
  • Apprenticeship.com
  • CalJOBS
  • Employer career sites

🏥 Healthcare

Healthcare apprenticeship can provide pathways into occupations such as:

  • Medical assistant
  • Community health worker
  • Behavioral health technician
  • Pharmacy technician
  • Nursing pathways
  • Dental occupations
  • Other allied-health careers

Ask healthcare employers and colleges:

  • Is the program a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Who is the sponsor?
  • Is the apprentice an employee from the beginning?
  • Which college or training provider delivers instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?

👩‍🏫 Education & Early Childhood

California apprenticeship is also expanding into education and early-childhood occupations.

Search:

  • Teacher apprentice
  • Early-childhood educator apprentice
  • Child-development apprentice
  • Paraeducator apprenticeship
  • Education apprentice

Check:

  • School districts
  • County offices of education
  • Community colleges
  • Early-childhood employers
  • DAS program search

🍽️ Hospitality

California apprenticeship can also include:

  • Culinary occupations
  • Hospitality
  • Food service
  • Hotel operations
  • Other service-sector careers

Verify Registered Apprenticeship status through DAS.

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=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 2B ===

🚚 Transportation & Automotive Apprenticeship

California's transportation economy creates apprenticeship and paid-training pathways in:

  • Automotive repair
  • Diesel technology
  • Fleet maintenance
  • Transit
  • Trucking
  • Rail
  • Heavy equipment
  • Logistics
  • Aviation

Recommended searches:

  • Automotive technician apprentice
  • Diesel technician apprentice
  • Fleet mechanic apprentice
  • Transit mechanic apprentice
  • Heavy-equipment technician
  • Transportation technician
  • Rail apprentice
  • Aviation maintenance apprentice

Use:

⚡ Energy & Utilities

California's energy transition and large utility infrastructure create career pathways in:

  • Electrical
  • Linework
  • Substations
  • Power generation
  • Renewable energy
  • Building electrification
  • Utility maintenance
  • Instrumentation

Recommended searches:

  • Lineworker apprentice
  • Utility apprentice
  • Electrical technician
  • Substation technician
  • Instrumentation technician
  • Plant operator trainee
  • Solar technician
  • Maintenance technician

Some utility programs are Registered Apprenticeships.

Others are employer-designed apprenticeships or trainee programs.

Verify the specific program.

🚰 Water & Wastewater

California's water infrastructure creates technical careers throughout the state.

Search:

  • Water treatment operator trainee
  • Wastewater treatment operator trainee
  • Water distribution operator
  • Utility worker
  • Instrumentation technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Maintenance technician

Check:

  • Cities
  • Water districts
  • Irrigation districts
  • Sanitation districts
  • Public utilities
  • Regional water agencies

Ask:

  • Is the position paid?
  • Is training provided?
  • Does the employer pay for certification?
  • Is there structured wage progression?
  • Is it a Registered Apprenticeship?

🌾 Agriculture & Food Production

California's agricultural economy creates paid training opportunities in:

  • Agricultural equipment
  • Irrigation
  • Food processing
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Logistics
  • Equipment operation
  • Manufacturing

Recommended searches:

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Maintenance technician
  • Industrial mechanic
  • Irrigation technician
  • Food-production technician
  • Equipment operator trainee
  • Diesel technician

Not every employer training program in agriculture is Registered Apprenticeship.

Verify the program.

🏛️ California Government & Public-Sector Careers

Public employers can provide Registered Apprenticeship, trainee programs, technical careers, and other paid career-development pathways.

Search:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Operator
  • Maintenance
  • Equipment operator
  • Public works
  • Transportation
  • IT
  • Utilities
  • Water/wastewater

A public-sector trainee position is not automatically a Registered Apprenticeship.

🏛️ State of California Careers

Search career areas such as:

  • Transportation
  • Information technology
  • Skilled maintenance
  • Engineering
  • Healthcare
  • Natural resources
  • Facilities
  • Equipment operation

🚧 Caltrans

Recommended searches:

  • Transportation technician
  • Highway maintenance
  • Equipment operator
  • Engineering technician
  • Mechanic
  • Electrician
  • Trainee

🏙️ Local Government

California's cities, counties, special districts, and public agencies employ large technical workforces.

Search:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Maintenance
  • Utility
  • Water
  • Wastewater
  • Fleet
  • Facilities
  • IT
  • Public works

Public agencies may offer excellent paid career pathways even when they are not Registered Apprenticeships.

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=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 2C ===

🟥 Veterans & Transitioning Service Members

Veterans and transitioning service members can combine California workforce resources with military apprenticeship, SkillBridge, GI Bill, and industry-specific transition programs.

🟥 California Veterans Employment Resources

Veterans should ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Occupational training
  • Employer connections
  • Priority workforce services
  • Career counseling
  • Job-search assistance

🟥 DoD SkillBridge

Eligible transitioning service members can participate in approved civilian training and employment experiences.

California career areas to investigate include:

  • Aerospace
  • Aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Skilled trades
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities

🟥 USMAP Military Apprenticeship

  • 🟥 United Services Military Apprenticeship Program — USMAP — Explore USMAP

USMAP allows eligible service members to complete apprenticeship requirements while performing qualifying military occupational work.

USMAP and SkillBridge serve different purposes:

  • USMAP — apprenticeship while performing qualifying military work.
  • SkillBridge — approved civilian career experience during military transition.

🟥 GI Bill Benefits for Apprenticeship & OJT

Eligible veterans and other beneficiaries may be able to use GI Bill benefits while completing an approved apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training program.

Ask:

  • Is this program approved for VA education benefits?
  • Can military experience receive credit?
  • Can previous training provide advanced standing?
  • What benefits may be available while I earn apprenticeship wages?

🟥 Helmets to Hardhats

Veterans and transitioning service members interested in construction should investigate Helmets to Hardhats.

🟥 People With Disabilities

California's Department of Rehabilitation helps eligible people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment.

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Occupational training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Career counseling
  • Postsecondary education
  • Employer connections
  • Assistive technology
  • Workplace accommodations
  • Job placement

🟥 Students With Disabilities

Students and families should ask about:

  • Pre-employment transition services
  • Career exploration
  • Work-Based Learning
  • Occupational training
  • CTE
  • Apprenticeship
  • Postsecondary education
  • Paid employment

Ask whether apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship can be incorporated into the student's employment plan.

🟥 Women in Apprenticeship & Nontraditional Careers

Women interested in occupations where women have historically been underrepresented should investigate:

  • Construction
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Pipe trades
  • HVAC
  • Welding
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Automotive
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Technology

Resources:

California also has local women-in-trades and apprenticeship-readiness organizations.

Verify current programs and recruiting directly.

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=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 2D ===

🟥 Reentry & Justice-Impacted Career Seekers

A previous conviction does not automatically make every apprenticeship or skilled occupation unavailable.

Requirements vary by:

  • Employer
  • Occupation
  • Licensing requirements
  • Worksite
  • Apprenticeship sponsor

Start with:

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • WIOA
  • OJT
  • Occupational training
  • Employer connections
  • Supportive services

If an occupation requires a professional license, check the licensing requirements separately.

🟥 Opportunity Youth

Young adults who are not currently connected to school or employment should investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • WIOA youth programs
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Community-college career education
  • Employer-paid training

Start with:

🟥 Career Changers & Dislocated Workers

Apprenticeship is not only for people entering the workforce for the first time.

Adults changing careers or workers affected by layoffs should investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • WIOA-funded training
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Community-college career education
  • Employer-paid training

Resources:

🟥 Migrant & Seasonal Farmworkers

California's agricultural economy makes workforce services for migrant and seasonal farmworkers particularly important.

Start with:

Ask about:

  • Occupational training
  • Career advancement
  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Employment services
  • Supportive services

🟥 English Learners & Immigrant Career Seekers

English learners and immigrant career seekers may be able to combine workforce services with:

  • English-language instruction
  • Occupational training
  • Apprenticeship
  • Community-college education
  • Employer-connected training

Start with:

  • ⬛ America's Job Center of California
  • 🟪 California Community Colleges
  • 🟦 California DAS Apprenticeship Search

Licensing, work-authorization, education, and credential requirements vary by occupation.

Verify the requirements for the specific career you want to enter.

How Specialized Resources Fit Into Your Search

Specialized programs should supplement—not replace—the main apprenticeship search.

Use both:

Main search resources

  • California DAS
  • California DAS Apprenticeship Search
  • Apprenticeship.com
  • Apprenticeship.gov
  • CalJOBS
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Employer career sites

Specialized resources

  • Veterans services
  • Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Youth workforce programs
  • Reentry resources
  • WIOA
  • Other population-specific assistance

A specialized program may help with preparation, training costs, supportive services, or employer connections.

The paid apprenticeship job still comes from the employer or apprenticeship sponsor.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 2D ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 3A ===

📍 California Regional & Local Resources

California's size means apprenticeship opportunities vary significantly by region.

Use California's statewide apprenticeship resources together with local workforce centers, community colleges, public employers, apprenticeship sponsors, unions, utilities, and employer career sites.

Each regional section includes:

  • Priority industries
  • Recommended occupations to search
  • Direct local resources

The occupation lists are search recommendations, not claims that a current apprenticeship opening exists.

📍 Los Angeles County

Priority Industries

  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Aerospace
  • Entertainment production
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Information technology
  • Utilities
  • Public-sector employment

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Carpenter apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Pipefitter apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Operating engineer
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Aerospace technician
  • Aircraft mechanic
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT apprentice
  • Transit mechanic apprentice
  • Utility apprentice
  • Water operator trainee

Direct Local Resources

Search major healthcare systems, aerospace manufacturers, construction sponsors, transit agencies, utilities, ports, and public agencies directly.

📍 Long Beach & South Bay

Priority Industries

  • Maritime
  • Ports
  • Logistics
  • Aerospace
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Maritime apprentice
  • Diesel technician
  • Fleet mechanic
  • Logistics technician
  • Aerospace technician
  • Aircraft mechanic
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

📍 Orange County

Priority Industries

  • Healthcare
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Information technology
  • Aerospace
  • Hospitality
  • Utilities
  • Transportation

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Aerospace technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT technician
  • Automotive technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water operator trainee

Direct Local Resources

📍 Inland Empire — Riverside & San Bernardino Counties

Priority Industries

  • Logistics
  • Warehousing
  • Transportation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities
  • Public sector

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Logistics technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Fleet mechanic
  • Commercial driver apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

Search logistics companies, distribution centers, manufacturers, construction sponsors, healthcare systems, utilities, and public agencies directly.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 3A ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 3B ===

📍 San Diego County

Priority Industries

  • Defense
  • Aerospace
  • Maritime
  • Shipbuilding
  • Healthcare
  • Biotechnology
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Information technology
  • Construction
  • Transportation

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Shipfitter
  • Marine electrician
  • Welder
  • Pipefitter
  • Aircraft mechanic
  • Aerospace technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Biotechnology manufacturing technician
  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Diesel technician

Direct Local Resources

Search shipbuilding, defense, aerospace, healthcare, biotechnology, technology, utilities, and construction employers directly.

📍 San Francisco & Peninsula

Priority Industries

  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Public-sector employment
  • Hospitality
  • Building operations

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Operating engineer
  • Stationary engineer
  • Building maintenance technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT apprentice
  • Transit mechanic
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator
  • Hospitality apprentice

Direct Local Resources

📍 East Bay — Oakland, Berkeley & Contra Costa

Priority Industries

  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Public-sector employment
  • Information technology
  • Industrial maintenance

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Pipefitter apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Transit mechanic
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water operator trainee

Direct Local Resources

📍 Silicon Valley & South Bay

Priority Industries

  • Information technology
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Semiconductors
  • Electronics
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities
  • Transportation

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Software developer apprentice
  • Data technician
  • Semiconductor technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Equipment technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 3B ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 3C ===

📍 Sacramento & Capital Region

Priority Industries

  • State government
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Utilities
  • Transportation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Education

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • State trainee
  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Transportation technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator
  • Teacher apprentice

Direct Local Resources

Because Sacramento is the state capital, include California state-government trainee, technical, IT, maintenance, and transportation careers in your search.

📍 Stockton & San Joaquin County

Priority Industries

  • Logistics
  • Transportation
  • Agriculture
  • Food production
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Logistics technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Fleet mechanic
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Food-production technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

📍 Fresno & Central San Joaquin Valley

Priority Industries

  • Agriculture
  • Food processing
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Food-production technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Water operator trainee
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

Search agriculture, food processing, refrigeration, industrial maintenance, healthcare, utilities, construction, and transportation employers directly.

📍 Bakersfield & Kern County

Priority Industries

  • Energy
  • Agriculture
  • Construction
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Instrumentation technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • Pipefitter apprentice
  • Welder
  • Heavy-equipment operator
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

📍 Central Coast

Priority Industries

  • Agriculture
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Hospitality
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Utilities
  • Transportation
  • Public sector

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Irrigation technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator
  • Hospitality apprentice
  • Maintenance technician

Direct Local Resources

Search regional healthcare systems, agricultural employers, utilities, hospitality employers, construction sponsors, and public agencies directly.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 3C ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 3D ===

📍 North State — Redding, Chico & Surrounding Communities

Priority Industries

  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities
  • Forestry and natural resources
  • Transportation
  • Public-sector employment
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Skilled trades

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Carpenter apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Lineworker
  • Utility technician
  • Heavy-equipment operator
  • Diesel technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Water/wastewater operator
  • Maintenance technician

Direct Local Resources

📍 North Coast

Priority Industries

  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Forestry
  • Utilities
  • Public-sector employment
  • Transportation
  • Maritime
  • Skilled trades

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Carpenter apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Heavy-equipment operator
  • Diesel technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician
  • Water operator trainee
  • Maintenance technician
  • Marine technician

Direct Local Resources

📍 Rural California

Do not assume apprenticeship exists only in California's largest metropolitan areas.

If you live in a smaller community:

  • 🟦 Search the California DAS apprenticeship database by county.
  • 🟦 Search Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder.
  • ⬛ Search Apprenticeship.com.
  • ⬛ Search CalJOBS.
  • ⬛ Contact America's Job Center of California.
  • 🟪 Contact the nearest community college.
  • 👷 Search union and industry apprenticeship sponsors.
  • 🏛️ Search county and municipal government.
  • 🚰 Search water and wastewater districts.
  • ⚡ Search utilities.
  • 🏥 Search hospitals and healthcare systems.
  • 🌾 Search agriculture and food-production employers.
  • 🏭 Search manufacturers.
  • 🚚 Search transportation employers.

Expand into neighboring counties when commuting is realistic.

California apprenticeship sponsors often serve multi-county geographic areas, so do not limit your search to organizations physically located in your own city.

California Regional Search Checklist

For the region where you want to work, check:

  • 🟦 California DAS
  • 🟦 California DAS Apprenticeship Search
  • ⬛ Apprenticeship.com
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder
  • ⬛ CalJOBS
  • ⬛ America's Job Center of California
  • 🟪 Community college
  • 🟨 Youth apprenticeship and CTE
  • 🟧 Pre-apprenticeship
  • 👷 Union and apprenticeship sponsors
  • 🏛️ State and local government
  • 🚰 Water/wastewater agencies
  • ⚡ Utilities
  • 🏥 Healthcare employers
  • 🏭 Manufacturers
  • 💻 Technology employers
  • ✈️ Aerospace and aviation employers
  • 🚚 Transportation and logistics employers
  • 🌾 Agriculture and food-production employers
  • 🏢 Employer career sites

How to Search an Occupation Locally

Take an occupation from the regional lists and search several variations.

For example:

  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance trainee
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Industrial maintenance paid training

Then add:

  • Your city
  • Your county
  • Your region
  • California

The same career pathway may appear under several different job titles.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 3D ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 4A ===

🟩 Beyond Registered Apprenticeship

Registered Apprenticeship should be one of the first places you look for paid career training.

But it is not the only way to earn while learning.

If a Registered Apprenticeship is not available in the occupation or community you want, investigate:

  • Employer / unregistered apprenticeship
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Co-op / Cooperative Education
  • Employer-paid technical training
  • Technician trainee programs
  • Operator trainee programs
  • Maintenance trainee programs
  • Employer academies
  • Career-development programs

These can be excellent career pathways.

They simply should not be assumed to provide the same structure or credential as Registered Apprenticeship.

🟩 Employer / Unregistered Apprenticeship

Some California employers may offer paid programs they describe as apprenticeships even when the program is not a Registered Apprenticeship.

An employer apprenticeship may provide:

  • Paid employment
  • Structured workplace training
  • Mentoring
  • Technical instruction
  • Wage increases
  • Industry credentials
  • College credit
  • Advancement into skilled employment

These features vary.

Before accepting an employer apprenticeship, ask:

  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • If so, who registers the program?
  • How is training structured?
  • Who provides mentoring?
  • What is the starting wage?
  • How does pay progress?
  • Is technical instruction included?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • What position does successful completion lead to?

Unregistered does not automatically mean low quality.

It means you should evaluate the program based on what it actually provides.

🟩 California On-the-Job Training

On-the-Job Training — OJT — can provide another route into paid employment.

Start with:

In a workforce OJT arrangement, an employer hires and trains a worker while the workforce system may help support eligible training costs.

The participant earns wages while learning the job.

OJT is not automatically Registered Apprenticeship.

Ask:

  • Is there a Registered Apprenticeship in this occupation?
  • If not, is OJT available?
  • Which employers participate?
  • Am I eligible?
  • What job does the training lead to?

🟩 Paid Work-Based Learning

Paid Work-Based Learning can provide career experience even when a full apprenticeship is not available.

Depending on the program, Work-Based Learning may involve:

  • Paid workplace experience
  • Employer-connected education
  • Career Technical Education
  • Community-college programs
  • Youth workforce programs
  • Occupational training

Ask:

  • Is this paid?
  • Will I be an employee?
  • What occupational skills will I learn?
  • How long does the experience last?
  • Can I earn an industry credential?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Can it lead to permanent employment?
  • Can it lead to Registered Apprenticeship?

🟩 Co-op / Cooperative Education

California community colleges and employers may offer cooperative education or other structured employment connected with education.

Ask:

  • Which employers participate?
  • Are the positions paid?
  • Which academic programs participate?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Can co-op lead to permanent employment?
  • Does the employer also operate a Registered Apprenticeship?

Co-op is not automatically Registered Apprenticeship.

🟩 Employer-Paid Training & Trainee Programs

Do not search only for apprentice.

California employers may recruit using titles such as:

  • Manufacturing technician trainee
  • Maintenance trainee
  • Operator trainee
  • Process technician
  • Engineering technician trainee
  • Automotive technician trainee
  • Transit mechanic trainee
  • Utility trainee
  • Water operator trainee
  • Healthcare trainee
  • Development program
  • Academy

Search through:

How to Compare Paid Training Opportunities

For any opportunity, determine:

  • Is it paid?
  • Will I be an employee?
  • Is training structured?
  • Will I have an experienced mentor?
  • Does pay increase as my skills develop?
  • Is technical instruction included?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Will I earn an industry credential?
  • Is there a permanent-employment pathway?
  • Is it a Registered Apprenticeship?

A strong employer-paid training program can be an excellent career pathway even when it is not Registered Apprenticeship.

The important thing is knowing what the program actually provides.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 4A ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 4B ===

💰 Free & Funded Career Training

If you cannot find the apprenticeship you want immediately, do not assume your only alternative is paying substantial tuition for training.

California workforce and education programs may help eligible career seekers obtain occupational training or prepare for paid employment.

Training is not automatically apprenticeship.

The goal is to determine whether training can help you move toward:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Paid employment
  • A skilled occupation
  • An industry credential
  • Career advancement

💰 America's Job Center of California

Start with your local America's Job Center of California.

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • WIOA-funded training
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Occupational training
  • Supportive services
  • Employer-connected training

Eligibility and available funding vary.

💰 WIOA Training Assistance

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act — WIOA — can help eligible career seekers obtain employment and training services.

Ask:

  • Am I eligible for WIOA assistance?
  • Can WIOA support this training?
  • Is there a Registered Apprenticeship in this occupation?
  • Can apprenticeship-related training costs be supported?
  • Is OJT available?
  • Are supportive services available?
  • Is the training provider eligible for workforce funding?

Investigate assistance before assuming you must pay the full cost yourself.

💰 California Community College Career Education

California Community Colleges provide career education across the state.

Ask your local college about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Related Instruction
  • Employer-paid education
  • Financial aid
  • Workforce funding
  • Short-term credentials
  • Technical certificates
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Co-op
  • Employer partnerships

💰 Employer-Paid Education

California employers may pay some or all of the education connected with:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Technical training
  • Industry certification
  • College coursework
  • Tuition assistance
  • Career-development programs

Ask:

  • Do you pay for Related Instruction?
  • Is tuition reimbursed?
  • Are books included?
  • Are tools included?
  • Are certification or licensing fees covered?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Is there an employment commitment after employer-funded training?

🟧 Before Paying for Pre-Apprenticeship

Before paying tuition for pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship-readiness training, ask:

  • Is the program free?
  • Is grant funding available?
  • Is there a wage or stipend?
  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors recognize the program?
  • Which employers recruit participants?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Does completion provide preferred consideration or advanced standing?
  • What paid opportunity follows?

Be cautious about paying substantial tuition solely for the possibility of later applying to an apprenticeship.

🟩 Supportive Services

Eligible workforce-program participants may be able to receive assistance addressing barriers to employment or training.

Depending on the program and available funding, assistance may include:

  • Transportation
  • Child care
  • Tools
  • Work clothing
  • Testing fees
  • Training expenses
  • Other employment-related needs

Ask your local workforce center what assistance is currently available.

💰 Compare Training Before You Pay

Before paying for career training, compare:

Registered Apprenticeship — paid employment plus structured training.

Employer-Paid Training — the employer pays you and provides or pays for training.

Workforce-Funded Training — a workforce program may pay qualifying training costs.

Community College Training — financial aid, grants, employer assistance, or workforce funding may reduce your cost.

Self-Paid Training — you pay the cost yourself.

Self-paid training may be appropriate in some situations, but investigate the other options first.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 4B ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 4C ===

Your California Apprenticeship Search Plan

You do not need to search every resource at once.

Use this sequence to build a focused apprenticeship search.

Step 1 — Choose the Career First

Start with two or three occupations you actually want to investigate.

Ask:

  • What kind of work interests me?
  • Which occupations are strong in my region?
  • Do I prefer hands-on, technical, healthcare, technology, transportation, public service, or another type of work?
  • How far am I willing to commute?
  • What education or credentials do I already have?

Then search apprenticeship pathways into those occupations.

Step 2 — Search California's Official Apprenticeship Database

Search by:

  • Occupation
  • County
  • Apprenticeship program

This is one of the most important California-specific steps because it helps you identify established apprenticeship programs, not only current job advertisements.

Step 3 — Research the Sponsor

Once you find a program:

  • Identify the apprenticeship sponsor.
  • Visit the sponsor's website.
  • Find its application process.
  • Check geographic jurisdiction.
  • Check application dates.
  • Review entry requirements.
  • Determine where Related Instruction occurs.
  • Find out whether applications are open continuously or only during certain periods.

Step 4 — Search Apprenticeship.com

Search by:

  • Occupation
  • Industry
  • California
  • City or region

Use Apprenticeship.com alongside official state and federal resources.

Step 5 — Search Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder

Look for current apprentice openings.

If nothing appears, continue searching established sponsors.

Step 6 — Search Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder

Use Partner Finder to identify organizations involved with apprenticeship.

Step 7 — Search CalJOBS

Do not search only apprentice.

Also try:

  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Maintenance trainee
  • Operator trainee
  • Helper
  • Paid training
  • Co-op
  • Academy
  • Development program

Step 8 — Contact America's Job Center of California

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Current apprentice recruiting
  • WIOA
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Occupational training
  • Youth services
  • Employer recruiting
  • Supportive services

Step 9 — Contact a Community College

Ask:

  • Which apprenticeship sponsors work with this college?
  • Which employers are hiring apprentices?
  • Does the college provide Related Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Is pre-apprenticeship available?
  • Are paid co-op or Work-Based Learning opportunities available?
  • Is workforce funding available?

Step 10 — Search Employers Directly

Search employer career sites for:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Maintenance
  • Operator
  • Academy
  • Development program
  • Paid training

Important California industries include:

  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Technology
  • Aerospace
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Agriculture
  • Hospitality
  • Public sector

Step 11 — Search Public Employers

Include:

  • State of California
  • Counties
  • Cities
  • Caltrans
  • Transit agencies
  • Utilities
  • Water/wastewater agencies
  • Public works
  • School districts
  • Public colleges

Search both:

apprentice and trainee

Step 12 — If Nothing Is Open

Do not stop at the first unsuccessful search.

Identify the sponsor and find out when applications reopen.

Meanwhile, investigate:

  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • OJT
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Co-op
  • Employer-paid training
  • Community-college career education

Then continue checking the apprenticeship programs you want.

Questions to Ask Before Accepting an Apprenticeship

Ask:

  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Who is the sponsor?
  • What occupation am I being trained for?
  • What is the starting wage?
  • How does wage progression work?
  • How is On-the-Job Learning structured?
  • Who will mentor me?
  • Who provides Related Instruction?
  • Who pays for the instruction?
  • How long does the program take?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Do I have to purchase tools?
  • Are there fees?
  • What employee benefits are included?
  • What credential will I receive?
  • What happens after completion?

A strong program should be able to explain the pathway clearly.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 4C ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 4D ===

Related Apprenticeship Resource Guides

Use the Apprenticeship.com Resource Guides for additional help understanding, finding, comparing, and preparing for apprenticeship and other earn-and-learn pathways.

  • 🟦 Complete Guide to Apprenticeships
  • 🟦 How to Find an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 How to Apply for an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 How to Prepare for an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 How to Compare Apprenticeship Programs
  • 🟦 How to Evaluate an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship Pay & Progressive Wages
  • 🟪 College & Degree Apprenticeships
  • 🟪 College and Apprenticeship — How You Can Do Both
  • 🟨 Youth Apprenticeship Guide
  • 🟧 Pre-Apprenticeship Guide
  • 🟩 Paid Work-Based Learning Guide
  • 🟩 On-the-Job Training Guide
  • 🟩 Co-op / Cooperative Education Guide
  • 🟩 Employer Apprenticeships & Paid Training Programs
  • 🟥 Military & Veteran Apprenticeship Guide
  • 🟥 Apprenticeships for People With Disabilities
  • 🟥 Women in Apprenticeship & Nontraditional Careers
  • 🟥 Apprenticeship & Reentry
  • 🟥 Apprenticeships for Career Changers
  • ⬛ Parents' Guide to Apprenticeship
  • ⬛ School Counselor's Guide to Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship & Earn-and-Learn Glossary

For definitions of apprenticeship and workforce terminology, see the Apprenticeship & Earn-and-Learn Glossary on the Apprenticeship.com Resource Guides page.

The glossary explains terms such as:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Employer / unregistered apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship sponsor
  • Related Instruction / RTI
  • On-the-Job Learning
  • On-the-Job Training / OJT
  • Work-Based Learning / WBL
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • Co-op
  • Progressive wages
  • WIOA
  • American Job Center

California Career Areas to Explore

Use California-specific resources together with the Apprenticeship.com career guides.

👷 Construction & Skilled Trades

Search:

  • Electrician
  • Carpenter
  • Plumber
  • Pipefitter
  • HVAC technician
  • Sheet-metal worker
  • Operating engineer
  • Ironworker

🏭 Advanced Manufacturing

Search:

  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Mechatronics technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Electronics technician

🏥 Healthcare

Search:

  • Medical assistant
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Community health worker
  • Behavioral health technician
  • Pharmacy technician
  • Nursing pathways

💻 Technology

Search:

  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Software developer apprentice
  • Network technician
  • Data analyst apprentice
  • Computer-support specialist

✈️ Aerospace & Aviation

Search:

  • Aircraft mechanic
  • Aviation maintenance technician
  • Aerospace technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Manufacturing technician

🚚 Transportation

Search:

  • Automotive technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Transit mechanic
  • Fleet mechanic
  • Heavy-equipment technician
  • Rail apprentice

⚡ Energy & Utilities

Search:

  • Lineworker
  • Utility technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Substation technician
  • Instrumentation technician
  • Plant operator

🚰 Water & Wastewater

Search:

  • Water treatment operator trainee
  • Wastewater treatment operator trainee
  • Water distribution operator
  • Utility worker
  • Instrumentation technician

👩‍🏫 Education

Search:

  • Teacher apprentice
  • Early-childhood educator apprentice
  • Paraeducator apprenticeship
  • Child-development apprentice

Employers Interested in Registered Apprenticeship

This guide is primarily for career seekers, but California employers can use Registered Apprenticeship to develop skilled workers.

Resources:

Employers can investigate assistance with:

  • Identifying apprenticeable occupations
  • Developing apprenticeship standards
  • Structuring On-the-Job Learning
  • Developing Related Instruction
  • Finding education partners
  • Registering a program
  • Recruiting apprentices
  • Expanding an existing program

Funding and incentives change, so verify current availability and eligibility.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 4D ===
=== BEGIN CALIFORNIA — PART 4E ===

Start Your California Apprenticeship Search

You do not need to know the name of every apprenticeship program in California.

You need to know:

  • What career you want to investigate
  • Where to search
  • Which sponsors operate programs
  • Which employers participate
  • Which colleges and training providers are involved
  • Which local resources can help
  • What questions to ask

Start with California's official Registered Apprenticeship resources.

Then use:

If the apprenticeship you want is not recruiting today, identify the sponsor and find out when it recruits next.

If Registered Apprenticeship is not available in the career or community you want, investigate other paid earn-and-learn pathways without confusing them with Registered Apprenticeship.

The goal is not simply to find training.

The goal is to find a pathway toward:

  • A paycheck
  • Marketable skills
  • Real work experience
  • Credentials
  • Career advancement

Important Information & Disclaimer

This guide is provided for general educational, career-exploration, and informational purposes.

Apprenticeship programs, employers, sponsors, application periods, eligibility requirements, wages, benefits, training requirements, college-credit arrangements, funding, and other program details can change.

Always confirm current information directly with the apprenticeship sponsor, employer, college, training provider, workforce agency, government agency, or other organization responsible for the program before applying, enrolling, paying fees, purchasing tools, changing employment, relocating, or making financial or career decisions.

Registered Apprenticeship Status

The word apprenticeship does not necessarily mean that a program is a Registered Apprenticeship.

Unless a program is specifically identified as a Registered Apprenticeship through an authoritative state or federal source, verify its registration status with the appropriate apprenticeship authority.

An employer or unregistered apprenticeship may still provide valuable paid training, but its structure, mentoring, wage progression, instruction, credentials, and other features may differ from Registered Apprenticeship.

Program Availability

A program or organization appearing in this guide does not mean that it is currently accepting applications or hiring apprentices.

Recruiting periods and available positions change.

Being listed does not guarantee:

  • Current availability
  • Eligibility
  • Admission
  • Selection
  • Employment
  • Funding
  • College credit
  • Successful completion

Contact the program, sponsor, employer, or education provider for current requirements.

Pre-Apprenticeship

Pre-apprenticeship is not the same as Registered Apprenticeship.

Pre-apprenticeship may be:

  • Paid
  • Stipend-supported
  • Unpaid

Before enrolling, confirm:

  • Program cost
  • Wages or stipends
  • Credentials earned
  • Employer participation
  • Connections with Registered Apprenticeship
  • Whether completion provides advanced standing or preferred entry
  • What paid opportunity may follow

Be cautious about paying substantial tuition solely for the opportunity to later apply for an apprenticeship.

External Links

This guide includes links to government agencies, colleges, training organizations, employers, apprenticeship sponsors, workforce organizations, nonprofit organizations, and other third-party resources.

Links are provided for informational and research purposes.

Apprenticeship.com does not control third-party websites and is not responsible for their content, accuracy, availability, security, privacy practices, application processes, program changes, or services.

A link or listing does not necessarily constitute an endorsement, recommendation, partnership, sponsorship, or guarantee by Apprenticeship.com.

External websites may change or remove pages without notice.

If you find a broken or outdated link, please report it so the resource can be reviewed.

No Legal, Financial, or Professional Advice

Nothing in this guide constitutes legal, financial, tax, educational, licensing, employment, or other professional advice.

Laws, licensing requirements, employment requirements, apprenticeship standards, and individual circumstances vary.

For advice concerning your specific circumstances, consult the appropriate qualified professional, government agency, apprenticeship sponsor, employer, college, licensing authority, or workforce organization.

Verify Before You Decide

Before making an important career, education, employment, or financial decision:

  • Verify the information with the organization responsible for the program.
  • Confirm that applications are currently being accepted.
  • Confirm wages, benefits, costs, and training requirements.
  • Confirm whether the apprenticeship is registered.
  • Confirm any college-credit or credential claims.
  • Confirm eligibility for grants, scholarships, workforce funding, or veterans benefits.

Resources verified: August 2026.

Programs, links, funding, and other information can change after the verification date.

=== END CALIFORNIA — PART 4E / END OF CALIFORNIA GUIDE ===