San Diego College of Continuing Education Opens Applications for Spring 2026 Apprenticeship Readiness Programs

December 17, 2025

The San Diego College of Continuing Education and San Diego Workforce Partnership are recruiting applicants for two Spring 2026 training cohorts in their Apprenticeship Readiness Program, a nine-week course preparing people for union construction careers. The program addresses a looming workforce shortage, as more than 40 percent of the region's construction workers are projected to retire over the next ten years. Participants receive industry-standard instruction, earn seven professional certifications, and gain access to support services like childcare and transportation assistance.

Who is affected

Individuals aged 18 and older living in San Diego or Imperial County who are eligible to work in the U.S.
Current and future construction workers in San Diego County
Women (specifically targeted through the all-female cohort at Cesar Chavez Campus)
Fall 2025 graduate Jessica Albright and other program alumni
San Diego's construction industry facing a retirement wave
San Diego Building and Construction Trades Council (providing instructors)
Union construction trades organizations

What action is being taken

SDCCE and SDWP are accepting applications for two Spring 2026 cohorts
Application screenings are taking place from December 8, 2025 through January 9, 2026
The San Diego Building and Construction Trades Council is providing instructors who deliver the MC3 curriculum
The program is providing supportive services including childcare, transportation, and work supplies to participants
Students are receiving exposure to the industry through guest speakers and field trips

Why it matters

This program addresses a critical workforce shortage in San Diego's construction industry, where over 40% of workers are expected to retire within the next decade, creating significant job openings. It provides accessible pathways to middle-class careers with average salaries of $55,563 and higher earning potential in specialized trades. The program offers comprehensive support services and industry-recognized certifications that make graduates competitive candidates for union apprenticeships, creating life-changing opportunities for participants while simultaneously meeting the region's economic and infrastructure needs.

What's next

Both Spring 2026 cohorts will run from January 26 through March 26, 2026
Cohorts will be held at SDCCE's Educational Cultural Complex in Southeastern San Diego and Cesar Chavez Campus in Barrio Logan
Upon completion, graduates will pursue apprenticeships across 23 high-demand union construction trades

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint