Workforce & Education

Second Chance Apprenticeship Readiness Program

Our key vocational training initiative is our Los Angeles Second Chance Apprenticeship Readiness Program, an 11-week cross-sector partnership between the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and the LA/OC Building Trades. All program participants are paid livable wages during cohort training prior to being placed directly in union apprenticeships. We have served over 413 participants (adult and TAY) thus far, with a 75% graduation rate and 82% placement rate of graduates. In the Los Angeles area, there is a need for skilled occupational credential programs, such as those in renewable energy.

Through a cohort program offered by the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI), our young members can take advantage of training to become Electric Vehicle Maintenance Technicians. The training is centered around Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) with special emphasis on EVSE Maintenance, EVSE Troubleshooting and EVSE Commissioning. Youth completing the program will have the opportunity to select between a technical or non-technical track. The technical track includes training in Computer Aided-Drafting & Manufacturing while the non-technical track includes training in Project Management.

Our Mission

Help Members find jobs post-release and simultaneously establish family-supporting careers that will set them up for continued success and economic mobility

Program Details

Training Dates: Sep.25,2023 - Dec.14,2023
Time: Monday- Friday, 6am to 2:15pm

Training

20+ hours of comprehensive training which ensures participants are qualified, competitive candidates for their specific trade.

Job & Life Experience

By graduation, all participants have the following certifications: MC3, OSHA 10, HazMat, and CPR/First Aid.
Career placement options include apprenticeships in general construction, carpentry, electrical work, welding, plumbing, and masonry, amongst others.

Pay & Benefits

75% indicated that they were active members of a local trade union, with an average hourly wage of $25.96
Receive Bi-Weekly Stipend

Requirements

Provide Proof of the Following Documentation:
- Valid Driver's License/Permit
-High School Diploma/G.E.D
- Valid Social Security Card
-Proof of Incarceration

*Interested in a Career in Construction
*Drug Free-Including Marijuana
*Have a Good Attitude

Placements

Graduated - 579 Participants
Union Jobs- 270

Explore

Impact Story

Andrew Garcia

With 112 construction trades to choose from, ARC offers invaluable opportunities for personal growth and skill development. Having spent two years incarcerated, I’ve been in the program for seven months now, making significant progress in just nine weeks. ARC has provided me with a solid foundation to support my two young sons. Attending a PAC meeting at Compton College opened my eyes to new possibilities, and since joining ARC, I’ve seen rapid progress and countless opportunities for success. The program offers support and guidance from individuals who understand the challenges of reentering society, making it a vital resource for anyone seeking positive change.

Shawn Roman

My name is Shawn Roman, and I’m part of ARC’s 20th Second Chance Pre-Apprenticeship Program at the East Los Angeles Occupational Center. This program has been life-changing for me, especially after spending 15 years in prison. Now involved with the Amity Foundation’s reentry program, I feel blessed to be here. The program has prepared me for careers in building trades unions, teaching me accountability, responsibility, and discipline through daily routines. It’s given me hope for a better future where I can support my family and inspire the next generation. I’m motivated to succeed in any union career I pursue, knowing it will benefit not just me, but also those who have supported me along the way.