About Apprenticeship
The State of California supports a formal registered apprenticeship training system. Apprentices learn occupational skills in the classroom then practice the skills in paid on-the-job training while working for local contractors. Typically students attend school two evenings per week and work full-time during the day. Students learn and practice all phases of the occupation in real-world applications. The apprenticeship wages are a portion of the journeyman wage rate that increases throughout the training program. As apprentices gain knowledge, and skills and progress in school and accumulate work hours, their pay increases. All apprenticeship programs are registered with the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) (the California state agency that regulates apprenticeship training).
Example: A construction trade apprenticeship program is an excellent career choice if you like to work with your hands; are willing to work as an apprentice for three to five years (depending on the trade you select); have dexterity, mechanical ability, problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a team; want to earn a living wage and good benefits; and want the opportunity to advance in your career.
Palomar College Apprenticeship Programs
All Palomar College apprenticeship programs are in partnership with local unions. Palomar College partners with three training centers to provide training programs for the following occupations:
- Acoustical Installer (AP AC)
- Carpentry (AP C)
- Drywall/Lather (AP DL)
- Inside Wireman (AP IW)
- Plasterer (AP PL)
- Sheet Metal (AP SM)
- Sound Technician (AP SC)
Students who enroll and pass apprenticeship classes through Palomar earn college credit. Students who complete all of the requirements of an apprenticeship program will earn a:
- Certificate of Achievement from Palomar College in addition to a
- Journeyman’s Certificate from the training center.
Each apprenticeship training center has different eligibility and admission requirements and interested students should contact the training center to determine the requirements for the program of your choice. General guidelines are you must be 18 years of age; be able to physically perform the work of the trade; provide verification of a high school diploma or GED certificate (requirement for most programs but not all); possess a valid California driver’s license; pass a drug test, and demonstrate the ability to read, write and speak English in order to comprehend instruction in related training classes and ensure safety on the job.
Below is a list of the training centers, the training programs that each center offers, and contact information for each center. Click on one of the following links to access each training center and the programs it provides:
- San Diego Carpenters Training Center
Acoustical Installer, Carpentry, Drywall/Lather, and Plasterer Programs - Electrical Training Institute of San Diego & Imperial Counties
Inside Wireman (electrician) and Sound Technician Programs - San Diego Sheet Metal Training Center
Sheet Metal Worker Program
After reviewing the general information about each training center and program, contact the training center directly to acquire further information. All program applications are received at the training centers. Acceptance into an apprenticeship training program is determined and extended by the training center.