Assemblymember Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins, in partnership with the San Diego College of Continuing Education (SDCCE) and the San Diego County Office of Education, hosted the 79th Assembly District Apprenticeship Fair on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at SDCCE’s Mid-City Campus, welcoming students, job seekers, educators, community organizations, and many local high school students for a hands-on look at high-demand career pathways.

The event began with a welcome from SDCCE President Dr. Tina M. King, followed by remarks from Assemblymember Sharp-Collins, who emphasized the importance of expanding access to earn-and-learn pathways that reduce barriers and open doors for local residents and students. San Diego Community College District Board Trustee Mariah Jameson was also in attendance, showing continued districtwide support for workforce and apprenticeship initiatives.

The fair brought together employers, apprenticeship leaders, and workforce training programs representing industries such as carpentry, construction, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, public utilities, and emerging technologies. Attendees had the opportunity to meet directly with apprenticeship sponsors, learn about paid on-the-job training models, and explore education and certification options that lead to sustainable, long-term careers.

Many attendees, including high school students exploring post-graduation options, noted that the fair helped demystify the apprenticeship process, giving them practical next steps toward pursuing careers with strong wages, benefits, and pathways to upward mobility without the high cost of tuition.

Attendees also learned about the more than 70 free career training programs available throughout the county at SDCCE, including programs in automotive technology, culinary arts, cybersecurity, welding, and more.

Participating Organizations:

• Office of Assemblymember Sharp-Collins
• San Diego College of Continuing Education
• San Diego County Office of Education
• National Black Contractors Association
• SDG&E Lineworker Recruitment
• Sheet Metal JACT of San Diego
• UCSD Labor Center
• San Diego Building Trades
• Port of San Diego Ship Repair Association
• Able Disabled Advocacy
• Strive Community Health Institute
• California Conservation Corp
• San Diego Water Authority
• Electrical Training Institute
• WestCal Academy
• Automotive Apprenticeship Program
• EMS Corp
• SYMONS Fire Protection Apprenticeship program

For more event information, contact (619) 465-7903 or email ashkon.jones@asm.ca.gov.

To learn more about San Diego College of Continuing Education visit, sdcce.edu.