In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), November 17-23, 2024, MiraCosta College is proud to announce the award of over $3.6 million in grants dedicated to expanding and developing apprenticeship programs in several high-demand industries. These funds will empower MiraCosta College to further its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and training opportunities, focusing on supporting historically minoritized groups. The timing of these grants aligns perfectly with NAW’s focus on advancing career pathways, workforce equity, and the development of highly skilled talent for the economy.
Apprenticeship Implementation Grant for IT Apprenticeship Program: $1.5 Million
Responding to the rising demand for IT professionals in the Oceanside area, MiraCosta College, in collaboration with OpenClassrooms, has secured $1.5 million to establish paid apprenticeship programs in key technology fields, including Digital Marketing, Software Development, IT Helpdesk, Data Analytics, and Cybersecurity. This program, designed to place 150 apprentices and pre-apprentices over the next three years, offers a competency-based, fully online education model supported by expert mentors. The program primarily targets adult learners, helping to bridge the gap between employer needs and workforce capabilities.
Digital Marketing Apprenticeship Program: $1.5 Million
A $1.5 million grant will fund the Digital Marketing Apprenticeship Program (DMAP), designed to train Digital Marketing Specialists and Managers. This 12- to 24-month program, aligned with industry-recognized certifications, will serve residents throughout San Diego County. In collaboration with Clear Digital Labs, this program will provide training, mentoring, and credentialing, ensuring participants are ready for above-living wage employment. Additionally, the grant supports hiring a professional expert to develop further local apprenticeship opportunities, bolstering the region's economic landscape.
Apprenticeship Grant for Pharmacy Technician Planning: $120,000
MiraCosta College has received a $120,000 grant to plan and develop a noncredit pharmacy technician apprenticeship program in partnership with the LAUNCH Apprenticeship Network and CVS. This funding will be used to develop curriculum, create apprentice placement opportunities, and establish employer partnerships, ensuring the program’s sustainability and long-term success.
Pre-Apprenticeship Grant for Life Sciences Clinical Laboratory Technologist: $500,000
As part of California’s initiative to serve 500,000 apprentices by 2029, MiraCosta College has been awarded $500,000 to develop a pre-apprenticeship program in clinical laboratory sciences. This grant will help build infrastructure to support students and medical laboratory technician training programs across the state, creating innovative pathways to employment in the critical field of life sciences.
These grants reinforce MiraCosta College’s dedication to enhancing educational and employment opportunities for all community members. The college fosters a skilled, diverse workforce that addresses critical industry needs by building on previous awards, including funding for advanced biotechnology training and food safety compliance programs.
Through cutting-edge apprenticeship programs and specialized training initiatives, MiraCosta College supports the life sciences sector, tackles workforce shortages, and meets the demands of local industries. Together, these efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy to transform lives and communities while solidifying the college’s leadership in cultivating a highly skilled workforce for today’s evolving job market.
