WestCal Academy®

STUDENTS CAN SEE AN OPPORTUNITY AND SEIZE IT

Who we are

Since 2015, WestCal Academy® has been a catalyst for change, fueling the dreams of hundreds. When an opportunity arises, our students don't just grab it – they charge forward, turning every chance into a remarkable success.

"The WestCal Academy® model serves an important lesson in economic justice."

The Honorable Ron Bonta, California State Attorney General

"I’m a big believer in career technical education. This is a wonderful program that is really reaching out to a lot of our students that offers real hands-on learning experiences."

Delaine Easton 25th California Superintendent of Public Instruction

"I want to make sure we are setting up young people for success. WestCal Academy® students get hands-on experience in different careers and get connected with industry mentors."

The Honorable Janice Hahn Los Angeles County Supervisor (4th District)

"We’ve had an excellent experience working with WestCal Academy®. Facilitating the intern experience is an important service that will boost the success of our students and our region."

Jane Close Conoley Ph.D, President, California State University, Long Beach

"I support WestCal Academy® programming that helps youth to discover their career pathway, and notably, guiding them into California registered apprenticeship programs."

The Honorable Mike A. Gipson California Assemblymember (AD-65th)

"WestCal Academy® instructors are passionate about apprenticeships. It is with great pleasure for the Build California team to work and partner with WestCal Academy®."

Lyn Sam Youth Outreach Coordinator, Association of General Contractors – Build California

"We appreciate the experiences WestCal Academy® has given our students and we look forward to the next stages of opportunities for them."

Matthew Brown Vice-Principal, Milikan High School, Long Beach Unified School District

"I look forward to supporting WestCal Academy® efforts to improve the community we live in by working to alleviate homelessness, help at-risk children, and create good, 21st Century Jobs."

Josh Lowenthal California Assemblymember (AD-69th)

Apprenticeship Ambassador for the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL)

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Ambassador Initiative connects community organizations, educators, employers, industry associations, labor groups, workforce intermediaries, and other stakeholders to champion and expand Registered Apprenticeship programs. As a USDOL Apprenticeship Ambassador, WestCal Academy® is committed to:

  • Promoting the benefits of Registered Apprenticeships to career seekers, educators, employers, industries, and communities.
  • Scaling innovative practices to modernize and increase the adoption of Registered Apprenticeships.
  • Expanding access to underrepresented groups, including justice-involved individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, women, rural communities, and youth.
  • Highlighting the value of Registered Apprenticeships as a key workforce strategy for high-demand industries across the U.S. economy.

WestCal Academy®'s Role as an Apprenticeship Ambassador

WestCal Academy® aligns with USDOL's goals by:

  • Forming partnerships with community organizations, workforce intermediaries, and development partners.
  • Creating new Registered Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs, particularly in high-demand fields.
  • Promoting equity by increasing opportunities for underrepresented populations.
  • Mobilizing resources for business and philanthropy to invest in apprenticeship expansion.
  • Building public-private partnerships to accelerate the adoption and innovation of apprenticeship programs (USDOL, 2024).

Photos

Photos of our Classes & Events.

Our Work

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Stay informed on our latest news!