Pre-apprenticeship Programs in California

California’s Labor Code authorizes Pre-apprenticeship programs under Article 4 of Chapter 4 of Division 3. Article 4 was added in 2018 by Chapter 704. Section 3100 requires the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) to develop a process to approve pre-apprenticeship programs for purposes of establishing eligibility for any state programs.

A program seeking approval as a pre-apprenticeship program is required to submit to the DAS a request for approval, on a form developed by the DAS. The request must include specified documentation, including a memorandum of understanding or other formal written agreement that contains specified requirements.

In order to qualify for approval, a pre-apprenticeship program must include the following elements:

* Training and curriculum based on industry standards and approved by the documented registered apprenticeship program partner that will prepare individuals with the skills and competencies needed to enter one or more registered apprenticeship programs.

* Strategies that increase registered apprenticeship opportunities for underrepresented, disadvantaged, or low-skilled individuals, such that, upon completion, those individuals will meet the entry requirements, gain consideration, and be prepared for success in one or more registered apprenticeship programs. There are specified strategies.

In addition, pre-apprenticeship programs are required to be evaluated and approved based on a determination of the strengths of the elements as demonstrated in the application. And, the approval of a pre-apprenticeship program expires in three years, unless the program requests and obtains renewal of its approval by the DAS. Renewed approval is based on the program’s success in implementing the required elements.