Apprentices Stand Out at State Summit, With Student Receiving Permanent Job Offer
Moreno Valley College apprentice Amy Castrejon took her place on a statewide stage Oct. 7 at the Advancing California Apprenticeship Summit, joining a panel of apprentices who spoke about their career paths. The summit at the Riverside Convention Center brought together nearly 400 educators, industry partners, and state leaders.
Castrejon, an information technology apprentice who began her career with the City of Moreno Valley, has advanced steadily, earning two promotions and becoming a permanent employee. Her participation in the Apprentice Panel highlighted the continued growth of MVC apprentices within local agencies.
The next day, Castrejon and four other MVC apprentices, Shanee Hill, Alexandro Corona, Alma Lara, and Alvaro Beltran-Osorio, led site visits during the summit’s excursions. The students guided attendees through their workspaces and explained their responsibilities, the expectations of their roles, and the support they received from mentors and college faculty.
During the excursion, Castrejon received a permanent job offer from the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, a position with broader advancement opportunities. Hill also learned she would be moving into a permanent cybersecurity position with the City of Moreno Valley. Beltran-Osorio has since transferred to a four-year institution after completing a Cybersecurity associate degree and earning a CTE Cybersecurity Health Certificate.
“The way our apprentices led that tour and spoke directly with educators and employers showed exactly what this program is designed to do,” said Rosalinda Rivas, Apprenticeship Director. “It gave summit attendees an unfiltered view of the work our students are doing across the region and how apprenticeship helps meet real workforce demands.”
The Advancing California Apprenticeship Summit ran Oct. 7 to 9 and highlighted regional partnerships and program models across the state. Hosted by the Foundation for California Community Colleges and the LAUNCH Network, the event drew participants from K–14 programs, community colleges, workforce agencies, and industry employers who are committed to expanding apprenticeship opportunities.