MiraCosta College will apply $3.6 million in state grants to programs that provide apprenticeship opportunities in technology, marketing and life sciences.
The funding includes:
- $1.5 million for information technology – in collaboration with OpenClassrooms, will place paid apprentices in key fields, including software development, data analytics and cybersecurity. The program, targeting adult learners, is designed to place 150 apprentices and pre-apprentices over the next three years, guided by an online model.
- $1.5 million for digital marketing – working with Clear Digital Labs, the program will provide training, mentoring and credentialing. The 12- to 24-month curriculum, aligned with industry certifications, will serve residents throughout San Diego County. The grant also supports hiring a professional expert to develop local opportunities.
- $500,000 for life sciences pre-apprenticeships – to develop a program in clinical laboratory sciences and build infrastructure to support students and medical laboratory technician training programs across the state.
- $120,000 for pharmacy technician planning – in partnership with the LAUNCH Apprenticeship Network and CVS, to develop a noncredit pharmacy technician program and the curriculum, create placement opportunities and establish employer partnerships.
The grants come from the Chancellor’s Office of the California Community Colleges through the California Apprenticeship Initiative.
The New & Innovative Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Grant Programs use Proposition 98 funding – based on a combination of state General Fund revenue and local property taxes – set aside by the legislature to support community colleges.
MiraCosta sought the funding in part to respond to the rising demand for IT professionals in the Oceanside area, The announcement falls just ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, which begins Sunday. NAW focuses on advancing career pathways, workforce equity and the development of highly skilled workers.
