Published: Nov 08, 2023
The California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) celebrated National Apprenticeship Week. Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships provide opportunities for individuals to earn money while acquiring valuable skills, experience, and credentials. CWDB has invested nearly a billion dollars in developing, implementing, and supporting these critical workforce programs and opportunities.
“Being a woman in the construction trades is not looked down upon, but it can be a struggle. I want to show people that women can do this, and we can be just as successful as men,” said Krystyna Galvan-Hendrix. Graduating from Working Partnerships USA’s free Trades Orientation Program (TOP) prepared Krystyna for an apprenticeship in the construction trades, earning her as much as $70 an hour after five years of experience.
Morgan A. Conner’Cato completed the pre-apprenticeship training with Sacramento Employment Training Agency (SETA) and Sacramento-Sierra Building Trades Council, and moved on to Local 104 for a sheet metal apprenticeship, quickly obtaining a job at AirCo Mechanical. “It’s union, and it’s a career. That’s very appealing to me and something that’s worth putting in the effort,” explained Conner’Cato.
Dace Krilova completed Chef Ann Foundation’s Healthy School Food Pathway program apprenticeship and said about her experience: “I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the pre-apprentice program. This invaluable experience has given me a new perspective on my daily work. It has been an enriching journey, and I am truly grateful for the knowledge and skills I have gained.”
Giovanni Perez served his country and came home in need of a job. He learned about KernCCD Customized & Corporate Training through a partner referral that serves out-of-school youth ages 18-24. Through the ZEV/Solar Pre-Apprenticeship Training, Giovanni gained skills and career experience that led to an apprenticeship with Local IBEW.
“The Women in Trades event helped shape my career trajectory because I was opened up to a lot of other perspectives,” said Breanna Brackett ( left), an apprentice with Kern Community College District’s Customized and Corporate Training. “It also allowed me to mingle with like-minded people, to network, and make connections. I gained confidence—that I can and will be successful too.”
