RIVERSIDE – The Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE), with partners LAUNCH Apprenticeship Network, and Network Kinection, are launching a Summer Apprenticeship Bridge Program for this year’s graduating seniors to participate in career training workshops, earn hands-on technical experience, and earn up to $3,000. Students who complete the program will also fulfill requirements that will help them transition into higher education and full-time employment.
Eligibility requirements include RCOE-graduating pre-apprentices who meet one of the following criteria:
- Current or former foster youth
- Pell Grant eligible
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) eligible
- Graduating from a Title 1 School
- Considered low-income
- Formerly incarcerated
- Parenting youth
- Considered to have a disability
- Graduating senior must have the ability and interest in working full-time and attending community college part-time
- Graduating senior must have the ability to legally work in the United States
- Graduating senior must fill out application timeline and materials
“This innovative partnership provides a competitive advantage for Riverside County students to pursue their dreams after graduation,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. “Students will gain valuable experience to add to their résumé, receive post-secondary guidance, and develop collaboration skills that set them apart from other job applicants.”
Mandatory online information sessions for interested Class of 2025 graduates are scheduled from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Interested applicants must register for one of the following sessions:
Registration is free. Parents and educators are encouraged to attend and learn more about the program. For more information on the events, contact Kermit Boyd, Teacher on Special Assignment, at (951) 826-6741 or kboyd@rcoe.us.
About LAUNCH Apprenticeship Network
The LAUNCH Apprenticeship Network was originally formed in 2018 by the Inland Empire Desert Region College Consortium and leverages the workforce and education systems of the region’s community colleges, K-12 districts, and two Workforce Development Boards. By integrating apprenticeship into these organizations and institutions, LAUNCH acts as an intermediary and education provider for businesses adopting the apprenticeship model. In addition, LAUNCH provides regional resources for developing programs and increasing pathways into apprenticeship both in traditional apprenticeships and new and innovative programs.
About Network Kinection
Network Kinection was formed with a clear purpose: To implement a proven model that efficiently connects employers with students on college campuses. Network Kinection makes the match between employers and the top talent they're seeking for their internships and entry-level positions.
