An apprenticeship is a unique structured training method, one that, for centuries, has been the method of choice of industries that demand highly skilled, competent, and flexible workers. Apprenticeships offer a blend of “learning by doing” and theoretical instruction.
“Apprenticeships are a pathway to earn while you learn,” said Nickolas Trujillo, West Hills Community College District Director of Apprenticeship Programs. “They combine on-the-job training with related supplemental instruction from our colleges. Apprenticeships are paid and are always connected to an employer.”
West Hills apprenticeship programs help meet industry and occupational needs. The training includes a progression of tasks on the job, under supervision and classroom instruction.
“Apprenticeships help both employers and students,” said Trujillo. “For employers, it is a way to develop pipelines for new employees or freely upskill current employees. For students, they get tuition-free courses while earning journey-level certification from the State of California and a Certificate of Achievement from either West Hills College Coalinga or West Hills College Lemoore.”
Technological innovation, workforce shortages, and upskilling demand drive many industries to seek apprenticeship programs. “West Hills works with employers to create tuition-free apprenticeship programs that produce knowledgeable, productive, skilled employees,” said Trujillo. For more information about WHCCD Apprenticeship visit https://westhills.cc/apprenticeship
Developed Pathways
Agriculture - Food Science Safety was launched in November 2020 through the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Instruction is fully online at West Hills College Coalinga. Employer connections include Sensient Natural Ingredients and Morning Star. Students take 1-2 classes a semester and are working 40 hours a week. Students are training to become Quality Assurance Technicians.
Human Resources was launched in April 2020 through the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Instruction is fully online with West Hills College Lemoore. Employer Connections include: Olam Food Ingredients and City of Coalinga. Training is focused on developing entry-level Human Resource employees.
Early Childhood Educator was launched in November 2020 through the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Instruction is fully online with West Hills College Coalinga. Employer Connections include: Kings Community Action Organization, Preston Green Learning Center, and Roosevelt Elementary School. Students are training for assistant teacher positions at the K-3 level.
Pathways in the Works
Industrial Maintenance Mechanics launch is planned in Summer 2022 and is through the US Department of Labor. Instruction is being planned at West Hills College Lemoore. Training will focus on industrial automation to support industrial and agricultural employers. Possible employer connections include: Del Monte and Ruiz Foods
Information Technology - Security and Networking: WHCCD was awarded a $125,000 California Apprenticeship Initiative Grant to plan apprenticeship pathways and connect coursework for IT security and networking careers. Instruction is being planned at West Hills College Lemoore. Once planning is complete, WHCCD will receive an additional $500,000 grant to connect employers and implement the new apprenticeship program.
Culinary Arts and Hospitality: WHCCD was awarded a $500,000 California Apprenticeship Initiative Grant to plan apprenticeship pathways and connect coursework for lodging management, chief/ head cook, and bartender careers. Instruction is being planned at West Hills College Lemoore.