instructor helping college student
Career Services

Apprenticeships

Cabrillo College currently offers three apprenticeship programs in Education, Community Health Workers and Computer Support Specialist. These registered apprenticeship programs offer students the opportunity to work in their field while pursuing their education.

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships follow an "earn while you learn" model, combining on-the-job training with academic instruction. This structured approach allows students to gain knowledge and skills while earning a wage, which increases as they master key competencies. Upon completing the program, apprentices earn a nationally recognized industry credential, paving the way for a well-paying career.

Apprenticeship programs at Cabrillo College are registered with the state of California’s Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) and the U.S. Department of Labor(DOL).

female student programming on a computer

Student Benefits

  • Earn salary while learning new skills

  • Tuition free courses

  • Increased wage earning potential

  • Support Services from the Community College

  • Expanded career opportunities

  • Develop competencies through classroom education, mentoring and on-the-job training.

Programs

College Students in Lab

Education (EDU)

Work as a Teaching Assistant Apprentice gaining skills in the classroom while you work towards your chosen pathway in education. You will earn 30 units of transferable college credits along with certification as an Education apprentice with the federal Department of Labor (DOL) and the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). Note: We are currently waiting for final approval from the DAS.

Contact Kim Sakamoto at kisakamo@cabrillo.edu for more information.

female chw talking with field workers

Community Health Worker (CHW)

Work as a Community Health Worker to help your community access health and social resources, improving overall health outcomes. You will complete 16 units to earn the Community Health Worker Certificate of Achievement from Cabrillo College, and receive certification as a Community Health Worker apprentice from the US Department of Labor (DOL) and the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS).

Contact Adrienne Saxton at adsaxton@cabrillo.edu for more information.

CIS - Apprenticeships

Computer and Information Systems (CIS)

Work as a Computer User Support Specialist or Information Security Analyst while you continue to complete your courses. Participants will complete the 16 units required to earn the CIS Certificate of Achievement from Cabrillo College along with certification as a Computer User Support Specialist apprentice with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS).

Contact Terri Oropeza at teoropez@cabrillo.edu for more information.

For more information about these programs please submit this interest form.

FAQs

Please fill out this interest form.

Six months to two years. This will depend on the program and your educational goals.

An internship offers short-term practical experience, typically lasting a few months, aimed at providing insights into the industry and enhancing resumes through hands-on work.

In contrast, an apprenticeship is a longer-term, structured program focusing on both on-the-job training and specific classroom instruction, often spanning one to several years. It is designed to develop specific skills and lead to a recognized certification.

Tuition is free for specific classes connected to the apprenticeship. Student fees are still the responsibility of the apprentice.

You will earn a State Apprenticeship Certificate upon completing the Apprenticeship Program from the California Division of Apprenticeship standards and a certificate from the Federal Department of Labor recognizing completion of a registered apprenticeship.

If the program at your school offers a degree in the program you choose you may work towards that degree while you are in the program as well as any stackable certificates that go along with your coursework. You will meet with an academic counselor to determine your individualized pathway.