APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
Apprenticeship program can run from 1 to 5 or more years.
NO. The beginning wages are usually about one-third of what an entry level journeyman earns.
The beginning wages must be approved by the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS).
The wage plan includes increments at set intervals like once every six months.
Apprentices have a benefit package.
With respect to "menial tasks", state registered apprenticeship programs have written "standards"
approved by the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). The standards include specific work
processes to be mastered on the job, and how many hours will be spent on the job performing each
work process.
Yes. With respect to the classroom and lab learning:
Yes, if the employer requests, and the college and CCCCO agrees, that all of the RSI courses will be credit courses. To get the degree, the apprentice must pass all of the required general studies courses. An apprenticeship program can be approved by CCCCO for granting an Associate of Arts degree, an Associate of Science degree, or both degrees can be approved by CCCCO and the apprentice will decide which degree he/she wants to complete the degree requirements.
No. Many community colleges do not have the exact, up-to-date equipment and facilities to teach the RSI courses specified by the employer. In many instances, the employers already have excellent up-to-date training facilities and equipment. Many community colleges offer all of the RSI instruction at the employer's training facility. Thus, such apprenticeship programs do not limit the ability of community colleges to serve the skilled workforce needs of employers, but rather allows the community colleges to offer apprenticeship programs that could not otherwise be offered by the colleges.
No. Both union and merit shop apprenticeship programs are in community colleges. Both are treated equally by the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, and follow the same standards.
At Foothill, the apprentices are exempt from paying student fees.
Any student over the age of 18 with a high school diploma or GED is eligible to apply for an apprenticeship program. In order to comprehend instruction in related training classes and ensure safety on the job, a student must also demonstrate the ability to read, write and speak English. Students must also have a valid CA Driver's license and transportation.
Contact one of the 15 training locations listed under Apprenticeship Contacts to schedule an appointment to fill out an application (*bring a valid ID and high school transcripts to the appointment). At the appointment, sign up for the entry examination. Check back with the training location periodically to find out if you passed the entry exam. Final step is to pass an oral interview prior to being accepted in the program.
After you are officially accepted to the apprenticeship program, staff members at the training location will provide you with further assistance with your enrollment process with Foothill.
For information about a specific apprenticeship program, including its availability, requirements or application process, see the Apprenticeship Contacts page.