Apprenticeship Readiness Program (ARP)

Build your future by gaining the skills and knowledge to enter one of the 23 high-demand construction union trades.

APPLY NOW

Build your future by gaining the skills and knowledge to enter one of the 23 high-demand construction union trades.

APPLY NOW

About the Apprenticeship Readiness Program

A group of workers in hard hats and high-visibility vests stands attentively, arms crossed, showcasing a teamwork environment.

The Apprenticeship Readiness Program is your blueprint for breaking into the union construction trades. This multi-week training program combines hands-on training, expert-led classroom instruction, and industry-recognized certifications, equipping you with the tools and knowledge to build a successful and rewarding career in construction.

What you get from the program

Job Placement Assistance
Job search support, career advice and information about growing industries

Educational Services
Education assistance to achieve training and career goals

Supportive Services
Resources like transportation, childcare, or work supplies to help you complete the program

Work Readiness Training
Training on basic skills like teamwork and working under deadlines needed to get—and keep—a job

Eligibility requirements

Ages 18+

Eligible to work in the US 

Lives in San Diego or Imperial County

Basic digital literacy preferred

Have a high school diploma or GED

Have a valid CA driver’s license

Ability to perform the physical duties of a skilled laborer position

Ability to understand and carry out instructions in English

How the program works

From enrollment to completing the program, here’s what you can expect at every stage:

Apply

Submit your application online (when applications are open)

Attend training

Engage in coursework and hands-on learning

Complete internships

Get real-world experience

Get certified and hired!

Receive job placement assistance

Program locations and dates

Click on the providers below to view more details about upcoming cohorts.

Application Screening Window: Oct. 6-31, 2025

Length: 16 weeks

Cohort Schedule: Nov. 13, 2025-March 12, 2026
Tue. and Thu. 5-9 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Note: Participants must be at least 18 years old to be eligible for this location. If you will be 18 by the program start date, you are welcome to apply.

Location: 900 Otay Lakes Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91910

Length: 16 weeks

Schedule: TBA

Location: 4343 Ocean View Blvd., San Diego, CA 92113

Length: 10 weeks

Schedule: TBA

Length: 10 weeks

Schedule: TBA

Program locations and dates

Click on the providers below to view more details about upcoming cohorts.

Vista Unified School District

Application Screening Window: Oct. 6-31, 2025
Location: 510 Sunset Dr., Vista, CA 92081
Length: 16 weeks
Cohort Schedule: Nov. 13, 2025-March 12, 2026
Tue. and Thu. 5-9 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Note: Participants must be at least 18 years old to be eligible for this location. If you will be 18 by the program start date, you are welcome to apply.

Southwestern College

Location: 900 Otay Lakes Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91910
Length: 16 weeks
Schedule: TBA

San Diego College of Continuing Education

Location: 4343 Ocean View Blvd., San Diego, CA 92113
Length: 10 weeks
Schedule: TBA

Imperial Valley College

Location: 380 E Atan Rd., Imperial, CA 92251
Length: 10 weeks
Schedule: TBA

How to apply

Here is how to apply:

1. Begin your application (it takes 10-15 minutes)
2. Answer the supplemental questionnaire following your application
3. Wait for our team to respond about next steps

APPLY NOW

Hear from former participants

Made possible by

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Questions?

Email us at hello@workforce.org or call (619) 319-WORK (9675).