We are available to mentor your search and offer approved apprenticeship opportunities. We collaborate one-on-one to understand your areas of interest and talk about your options. There are several considerations related to your chosen occupation, timing for related and supplemental instruction, and on-the-job apprenticeships.
To learn more, please email KellyCooper@LivableWageJobs.org with your contact information. You can also call at 559-670-0352. I will email general information and then we can meet up on Zoom.
We will work together to find potential employers near where you live. You may participate from any state or any location within California.
Our approach is Explore, Practice, Apply. You may not yet know your career interest, we will mentor you to explore the agriculture and technology sectors and practice working on projects to find out what you enjoy and have an affinity for. As you narrow your interests, Apply is where you will take your previous experiences and what you learned in Explore and Practice to Apply skills with an employer in on-the-job training. These apprenticeships are personalized to you and are designed to support you to be a competitive applicant or competent entrepreneur.
Apprenticeships are redefining paths to rewarding, high-growth careers by blending hands-on experience with industry-driven training in the most dynamic sectors of the economy. Apprentices gain direct exposure to innovative approaches, digital platforms, and advanced tools that shape the future of work, building confidence and adaptability that employers value. For companies, these apprenticeships deliver a pipeline of talent ready to excel in fast-paced environments, bringing curiosity, creativity, and practical expertise. Apprentices prepare to support and drive productivity, growth, and competitive edge in occupations where innovation, advancement opportunities, and business success continue to rise.
There are two parts to CA Division of Apprenticeship Standards and US Department of Labor certified apprenticeships:
- Related Supplemental Instruction (RSI) is 150 hours per year of exploring and practicing for work, which is unpaid learning time to prepare to be a valuable team member to an employer. We hope to get nominal stipend funding for some of this time; right now, it is unpaid learning time. Most of this takes place online or at an activity with us, depending on your interests and availability. We mentor you throughout.
- On-the-Job is approximately 2,000 paid hours that can take place over as long a period as you choose. You may elect to work part-time or full-time, (this is also dependent on employer priorities). Our programs are called competency-based rather than hours-based, which means you may complete competencies sooner or later than 2,000 hours. Completion is based on successfully demonstrating the competencies. We work together to locate employers near where you live.
- The Related Supplemental Instruction can start within a couple of weeks of signing up, after we talk. Once you are approximately 50 hours into the 150-hour requirement, we will collaborate to align you as an apprentice with an employer. The reason for completing the 50 hours is that we want to see a commitment from an apprentice before we bring in outside employers. This gives you a chance to switch occupation sectors if you want to.
- We will also discuss credit for prior learning with you, which includes past classes or experiences that demonstrate you are proficient at some of the RSI bullets noted, which reduces the hours of related and supplemental instruction.
While we wait for formal CA Division of Apprenticeships Standards and US Department of Labor certification, feel free to reach out to discuss the work and opportunities involved in the Occupations below. We can get started immediately and when certification is complete, add your training in as credit for prior learning (we can track this with you).
At the bottom of this page, you will see next steps if you’re interested in connecting:
Technical Sales Representatives: O*NET: 41-4011.00
The Technical Sales Representative apprenticeship equips future sales professionals to deliver value in fast-paced industries by blending advanced product knowledge with real-world sales expertise. Apprentices acquire the skills to analyze customer needs, communicate technical solutions clearly, and build strong relationships that help organizations grow. Through practical, hands-on learning, they master prospecting, market research, technical demonstrations, effective presentations, contract negotiation, and high-quality customer service. Training focuses on adapting to evolving market trends, leveraging digital and AI tools, and collaborating with engineering and customer success teams to provide solutions that improve client operations. Ethical business practices, strategic sales methods, and continuous learning are emphasized throughout, ensuring apprentices are prepared to drive results and build enduring trust in diverse, technology-driven sectors.
Mechatronics and Robotics Technicians: O*NET: 17-3024.00
The Mechatronics and Robotics apprentice works on modern automation and robotic systems in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and other advanced industries. Apprentices develop technical skills in electrical theory, mechanical systems, blueprint reading, instrumentation, calibration, and safe installation practices. The work includes wiring sensors, calibrating motors, programming robotic movements, and integrating automation systems with programmable logic controllers. Apprentices troubleshoot faults, perform preventive maintenance, respond to equipment breakdowns, and support process automation upgrades while practicing machining, fabricating components, and system diagnostics using specialized tools and software. Training emphasizes electrical and mechanical repair, computer-aided design, and foundational coding, preparing graduates to ensure that robotic systems perform safely and efficiently. The program fosters quality control, continuous improvement, and teamwork, providing a strong foundation for roles in automation maintenance, robotics integration, and industrial engineering.
Project Management Specialists: O*NET: 13-1082.00
The Project Management Specialist apprentice coordinates, supports, and delivers projects across multiple industries. Apprentices gain hands-on experience planning and organizing tasks, defining project goals, creating schedules, managing budgets, tracking milestones, and preparing essential documentation. Training emphasizes active participation in team meetings, stakeholder communications, and risk management, while introducing tools and frameworks such as Agile, Waterfall, and critical path analysis. Apprentices support process improvements, apply business process automation, and use key software platforms for project data, documentation, and reporting. Apprentices cultivate skills in technical documentation, compliance awareness, quality assurance, and data-driven decision-making. Graduates prepare to contribute as project coordinators, analysts, or project managers, bringing foundational knowledge, adaptability, and a disciplined approach to dynamic project environments.
Cybersecurity Specialists: O*NET: 15-1212.00
The Cybersecurity Specialist apprentice protects computer networks, systems, and data from digital threats in a range of organizational environments. Apprentices develop skills in risk identification, intrusion detection, and the implementation of security measures such as firewalls, encryption, and antivirus tools. The apprenticeship covers analysis of system vulnerabilities, incident response, and monitoring for suspicious activity in security operations centers. Apprentices gain experience in ethical hacking, risk management, and compliance, testing systems to uncover weaknesses before attackers do. Training encompasses network defense, threat analysis, foundational scripting in Python, and a disciplined approach to real-world cyber attacks. Apprentices prepare to support security operations, manage vulnerabilities, and promote safe computing practices, contributing to organizational resilience against evolving cybersecurity threats.
AI/Machine Learning Specialists: O*NET: 15-1221.00
The AI and Machine Learning Specialist apprentice works directly with data, algorithms, and intelligent systems across a range of industries. Apprentices build foundational skills in data collection and preparation, model selection, and programming in languages such as Python, applying these skills to design, train, and test models for tasks including pattern recognition, recommendations, and decision support. The apprenticeship covers practical concepts like neural networks, computer vision, and natural language processing, while emphasizing data ethics, bias management, and responsible AI practices. Apprentices gain experience deploying models, managing automated workflows, collaborating with technical teams, and communicating findings to business stakeholders. Apprentices prepare to contribute to AI projects, support business integration of machine learning solutions, and adapt to rapid changes in technology and best practices.
Computer Systems Analysts: O*NET: 15-1211.00
A Computer Systems Analyst apprentice connects technology with real business solutions. Apprentices study organizational computer systems, identify improvement opportunities, and help design better ways for people and technology to work together. They analyze data and workflows, evaluate software and hardware performance, test systems, and develop plans to make operations more efficient. The role involves supporting system upgrades, troubleshooting issues, and assisting end users through training and documentation, all while blending technical knowledge with analytical thinking and effective communication. The apprenticeship emphasizes the application of Agile methods, automation tools, and cloud platforms, and develops skills in requirements analysis, problem solving, and change management. Apprentices also contribute to cybersecurity operations, compliance, and stakeholder training through technical documentation and visual communication, preparing them to optimize organizational technology for operational efficiency and strategic growth.
Online Merchants: O*NET: 13-1199.06
An Online Merchant apprentice manages the complete process of selling products or services on digital platforms, from researching market trends and sourcing inventory to creating online listings and overseeing the customer buying experience. Training includes organizing inventory, setting prices, preparing product presentations, and using marketing tools to drive sales. Apprentices gain business-focused skills in payment processing, sales performance analysis, and coordinating logistics with suppliers and shipping partners, ensuring efficient operations and timely delivery. The apprenticeship develops practical technology, financial, and communication abilities, preparing participants to build, optimize, and operate successful online storefronts in a competitive global marketplace.
UX/UI Design Analysts: O*NET: 15-1255.00
The UX/UI Design Analyst apprentice delivers user-centered digital experiences that align with business strategy and measurable outcomes. Apprentices learn to plan and conduct user research, assess behavior analytics, and use data-driven methods to guide design choices for web, mobile, and product interfaces. Core skill development includes rapid prototyping, wireframing, information architecture, and applying usability and accessibility standards to enhance clarity and brand alignment. The apprenticeship emphasizes collaboration with cross-functional teams, strategic problem solving, and continual design iteration driven by user feedback. Apprentices also gain familiarity with emerging design technologies, including AI-driven personalization and automation, and develop the communication skills necessary to present design solutions that improve user satisfaction and meet business objectives.
Application Developers: O*NET: 15-1252.00
An Applications Developer apprentice creates digital tools, from mobile apps and cloud platforms to artificial intelligence and business software. Apprentices in this field learn how to design, code, and test applications that help users work smarter, connect faster, and solve real-world problems. The work may include developing mobile apps for health or finance, building AI-driven recommendation systems, designing e-commerce or inventory software, and integrating automation into new technologies. Apprentices gain experience with programming languages such as Python while learning to apply data, design, and technology to improve user experiences. This career path builds technical expertise and creativity, giving apprentices a competitive edge in industries that rely on innovation and digital solutions.
Operations Managers: O*NET: 11-1021.00
The Operations Manager apprentice oversees and aligns business operations with organizational strategy across manufacturing, logistics, IT, and supply chain functions. Apprentices develop expertise in strategic planning, process optimization, and data-driven decision making, utilizing analytics and lean principles to improve efficiency and reliability. Training covers digital transformation, supply chain resilience, customer-centric order management, and risk mitigation, including incident response protocols. Apprentices learn to lead change initiatives, manage operational budgets, ensure quality and compliance, and integrate technology systems while supporting sustainability and cybersecurity practices. Apprentices learn and practice how to drive operational excellence, lead cross-functional teams, and support continual improvement for global competitiveness.
Next Steps
- Email or call Livable Wage Jobs. KellyCooper@LivableWageJobs.org or 559-670-0352
- Access the introduction email sent after your initial email or phone call, and use the calendar link provided to book a Zoom call.
- Meet with Kelly on Zoom to review apprenticeships and discuss the Explore, Practice, Apply approach of Livable Wage Jobs Apprenticeships.
- Submit personal documentation for beginning the certification process, and receive a login for the Related and Supplemental Instruction community of practice.
- Complete 50 of the 150 hours of Related and Supplemental Instruction to qualify for apprenticeship placement, through a combination of virtual learning, in person activities, credit for prior learning, and regular Zoom meetings.
- Collaborate with Livable Wage Jobs to secure on-the-job employer placement and continue to progress with Related and Supplemental Instruction.
- Meet twice monthly in a one-on-one progress session, or request meetings more often.
- Complete Related and Supplemental Instruction.
- Complete Apprenticeship Competencies toward permanent hire.