In an exciting new partnership, OpenClassrooms and MiraCosta College are joining forces to provide a unique pathway into in-demand tech and digital marketing roles. Through a generous grant, this partnership will support 50 pre-apprentices and 100 apprentices, with the program being entirely free for students. These comprehensive programs are tailored to help individuals break into high-demand fields, such as digital marketing, cybersecurity, data analysis, help desk support, and application development.

“MiraCosta College is excited for this opportunity that will expand economic and social mobility for underserved communities along the Highway 78 corridor,” said Associate Dean Benjamin Gamboa. “Apprenticeships remain a proven strategy to increase employability of the local workforce, and these new and innovative programs will ensure our local workforce is prepared for North County’s future-focused companies.”

Program Structure and Goals

The initiative has a dual focus, aiming to bridge the skills gap while creating career opportunities for students in the local community. Here’s how it works:

• Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Tracks: Open to students at no cost, these programs prepare participants to excel in roles with local employers. The pre-apprenticeship program helps students build foundational skills, while the 12-month apprenticeship provides real-world job experience and advanced training.
• Hands-On Experience with Local Employers: Each apprentice works four days a week with a local employer, gaining hands-on experience in their chosen field.
• Project-Based Learning with OpenClassrooms: One day per week, apprentices take an online, project-based course with OpenClassrooms, reinforcing their on-the-job skills.
• Mentorship from Experienced Professionals: Both pre-apprentices and apprentices benefit from weekly one-on-one mentoring sessions with experienced professionals in their field.

A Win-Win for Students and Employers

Apprenticeships offer a powerful solution for both students and employers. For students, the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while earning a salary is invaluable. They not only build essential skills in a real-world setting but also graduate with experience that makes them competitive in the job market.

“Apprenticeships are a strategic investment with proven results for businesses. They drive productivity, improve employee retention, and diversify the workforce while offering a measurable ROI—$1.47 for every dollar spent. By enrolling staff in free upskilling programs in IT, cybersecurity, digital marketing, data analytics, and Python, companies empower employees with upward mobility while building a robust talent pipeline for hard-to-fill roles. It’s not just workforce development—it’s a win-win strategy for sustainable growth and innovation.”

– Jenna Fuentes, Senior Account Executive, OpenClassrooms

For local employers, apprenticeships provide access to a talented pipeline of workers trained in hard-to-fill roles, especially in technical fields where demand is high. Hiring apprentices offers businesses a cost-effective way to fill roles, often reducing salary expenses while contributing to employee development. By investing in apprentices, employers can enhance retention, boost productivity, and foster loyalty, building a stronger, more skilled workforce.

Building a Stronger Community and Workforce

Through this partnership, OpenClassrooms and MiraCosta College are opening doors for individuals to pursue rewarding careers, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive. Simultaneously, they are empowering local businesses to address talent shortages and contribute to economic growth in the community. As a result, this apprenticeship program not only supports students but also plays a crucial role in building a resilient and future-ready workforce.

“Our most innovative employer partners are more frequently considering candidates’ demonstrated skills over their degrees earned,” added Gamboa. “Apprenticeships that build these in-demand career skills while students work toward building a local future-ready workforce.”

For students, employers, and the broader community, this program represents a promising step forward. OpenClassrooms and MiraCosta College are excited to launch this initiative and invite eligible students and interested employers to take part in this impactful program. Together, we’re helping create a future where education and employment come together to foster meaningful, lasting careers in technology and digital marketing.

Click here to learn more about this innovative apprenticeship program.