Columbia College Apprenticeship Initiative

Columbia College has been awarded two two-year $960,000 grants to develop a new apprenticeship training program in Hospitality, Child Development, and Automotive Technology.

The Hospitality Apprenticeship is possible in partnership with two major local employers -- Black Oak Casino Resort in Tuolumne and Evergreen Lodge and Rush Creek Lodge near Groveland.

The Child Development and Automotive Technology industry partners are currently being developed. If you are a business interested in being a partner, please contact us!

The award is part of the new California Apprenticeship Initiative, aimed at broadening the range of apprenticeship programs available to California workers.

The grants will fund development of the Columbia College Apprenticeship Initiative, a pilot project that will give up to 96 students the opportunity to “earn while they learn” at their work sites. Designed with input from the sponsoring employers, the program is modeled on European apprenticeships, blending classroom instruction and on-the-job training in a compressed, two-year program.

The college will receive funds over two years to implement the Apprenticeship curriculum, receive approval of the apprenticeships through state and federal Division of Apprentice Standards, enroll students and launch the training at each work site.

Industry partners will be key players in the program, which Columbia College hopes can be used as a blue print for other employers interested in apprenticeship training.

Once enrolled, students will be able to complete recognized industry training certificates in Hospitality Management, Child Development, or Automotive Technology and will have the option to also earn an Associate of Science degree so they are positioned for career advancement. Apprentices rotate through different professional areas at the employer site over an 18-24 month period, to receive comprehensive training in a range of positions.Training in customer service and other “soft skills” will be incorporated throughout.

Based on employer needs, students enroll in either a seasonal or weekly training model to complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job training, a program of courses and skills certificates, plus general education and electives.