Santiago Canyon College leads statewide push for students to learn while they earn

Summary

Santiago Canyon College is at the forefront of expanding apprenticeship opportunities across California, focusing on both traditional and nontraditional fields. Dean Elizabeth Arteaga is leading efforts to grow existing programs and develop new ones, including in areas like Early Childhood Education and healthcare, which are typically less associated with apprenticeships.

The statewide initiative aligns with California's goal to significantly increase the number of registered apprentices, which currently includes nearly 93,000 individuals in various sectors. This push not only enhances career pathways for students but also contributes to a skilled workforce that benefits employers and the community at large.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This development highlights the vital role of apprenticeship programs in bridging the skills gap in various industries. By fostering partnerships and expanding curriculum offerings, educators and workforce leaders can better prepare apprentices for in-demand roles, ultimately strengthening the economy.