Cerritos College secures $1.25 million grant to break barriers for women in construction

Cerritos College is breaking new ground for women in construction. The college has secured a transformative $1.25 million Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) grant from the California Department of Industrial Relations to expand pathways into one of the region’s highest-paying and fastest-growing industries. This funding will help women and underrepresented populations access stable, high-wage careers, uplifting families and communities across Southeast Los Angeles.

This marks the second time the state has invested in Cerritos College’s leadership in construction training, following a $900,000 ERiCA grant in 2023. The initial round supported 44 apprentices, including 29 parents who received up to $10,000 annually in childcare, allowing caregivers to stay in training while enhancing family stability. Participants also received academic counseling, essential tools, and wellness workshops, while program mentors provided over 480 hours of guidance. These comprehensive supports significantly improved retention, leading to five graduates advancing to journey-level professionals in the trades.

The new funding will build on that momentum by strengthening recruitment efforts for women, non-binary individuals, and other underrepresented groups. It will also expand access to childcare, mentoring, and mental health support, ensuring more apprentices succeed in a field traditionally dominated by men.

Ironworking ranks among the top 10 highest-paying careers, with union pay scales averaging over $90,000 annually (source: Union Pay Scales). Cerritos College offers apprentices both technical training and academic credentials, preparing them to enter these high-demand roles immediately upon completion. To meet the growing workforce needs across Los Angeles and Orange County, the college is also developing a pioneering Bachelor of Science in Field Ironworker Supervision, which has received provisional approval from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. This innovative program will create a direct pathway to leadership in the construction industry and promote equity in the skilled trades.

“This recognition is about more than training workers in the construction trades. It is about transforming lives,” said Dr. Graciela Vasquez, Dean of Continuing Education at Cerritos College. “By breaking down barriers for women and underrepresented students, we are building pathways to lasting careers, uplifting families, and strengthening the workforce that drives our region forward.”