The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) unveiled a $13 million funding opportunity on January 21, 2025, through the Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) grant. This initiative is aimed at providing opportunities for women, nonbinary individuals, and underrepresented populations in the construction sector.

Administered by the DIR's Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS), this second phase of funding focuses on expanding access to construction apprenticeships, where women currently make up just 4% of apprentices in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.

The ERiCA grant seeks to break down barriers by offering support such as childcare, training, and mental health resources to enhance worksite culture and accessibility. One of the key components of the program is addressing the significant childcare costs that often hinder women’s participation in the workforce. The flexible funding allows for childcare or babysitting expenses, helping working mothers and parents attend apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship programs.

"DIR's apprenticeship programs embody California's commitment to fostering a diverse workforce that enhances productivity and strengthens the economy," said DIR Director Katie Hagan. "The grant funding will continue our efforts to advance equity and inclusion while meeting critical labor market demands in high-need industries."

Adele Burns, the acting chief of the Division of Apprenticeship Standards, added, "Building trades apprenticeships offer a significant opportunity for economic mobility and this grant ensures that we are breaking down barriers and building awareness among women, non-binary individuals, and underrepresented populations in construction careers."

The grant also provides critical training, mentoring, and mental health support to foster an inclusive and supportive environment on construction worksites. This includes training focused on anti-harassment and anti-discrimination for all workers, managers, and contractors on site. In addition, one-on-one mentorship opportunities will be provided to ensure upward mobility for women, nonbinary individuals, and other underrepresented groups.

The impact of such programs is evident in success stories like that of Sonia Cervantes. After over 10 years in retail, Sonia transitioned into a successful construction career through a pre-apprenticeship program, which provided her with the necessary skills and support.

California's first round of ERiCA funding, which awarded $25 million to 19 programs, demonstrated a strong commitment to improving gender representation in building trades. With the second round, DIR aims to further enhance this effort.

The Construction Trades Workforce Initiative (CTWI) is one example of a successful program funded by ERiCA, where nearly 60% of apprentices served are women. Graduates of CTWI typically earn starting wages of $75,000 or more per year.

Governor Gavin Newsom has set an ambitious target to serve 500,000 apprentices by 2029, with plans to raise that number to 620,000 through additional earn-and-learn programs. California has already provided apprenticeship services to 200,938 individuals since 2019, solidifying its role as the leader in registered apprenticeship programs in the U.S.

Now, construction apprenticeship programs are encouraged to apply for the second round of the ERiCA grant. A public webinar held on February 13, 2025, provided additional information about the grant and addressed questions from prospective applicants.

Originally reported by Construction Equipment Guide.