OAKLAND – In an effort to address statewide construction needs and build equity in the workforce, the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and its Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) announced today that 25 construction apprenticeship programs have been awarded $26 million in Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) grants. This funding aims to increase access to construction careers for women and disadvantaged communities.
“With this funding, we are addressing barriers that women face when trying to enter into construction careers. It has been empowering to see the ERiCA grants at work and watch apprentices successfully land jobs in the skilled trades and earn family-sustaining wages,” said DAS Chief Adele Burnes.
Childcare, recruitment, and improving worksite culture…