Silicon Valley Career Technical Education center, a program of the Metropolitan Education District, is pleased to announce that the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards has formally approved the SVCTE Field Ironworkers Pre-Apprenticeship program. This approval officially registers SVCTE as a state-recognized pre-apprenticeship provider, strengthening local pathways into high-demand construction and skilled-trade careers.

“Being an approved Registered Pre-Apprenticeship program is like the gold standard of a career and technical program,” said MetroED Superintendent Erin O’Neill, in a news release. “It recognizes high quality instruction, facilities and equipment. It also provides a direct path for students to pursue their career aspirations. We are excited to partner with industry experts to offer students a powerful entry into the skilled trades.”

The newly approved program prepares high school students for future apprenticeship opportunities in the ironworking industry through hands-on, safety-focused, industry-aligned training. Students who complete the program will receive state-recognized pre-apprenticeship credit, making them more competitive candidates for complete Ironworkers apprenticeship programs upon graduation.

The pre-apprenticeship is embedded within SVCTE’s Metals Technology course, which provides foundational instruction in welding, metal fabrication, safety practices, and industry standards essential to ironworking careers. Learn more about the SVCTE Metals Technology course, svcte.metroed.net/Course-Information/Career-Technical-Education-Courses/Metals-Technology/index.html.

“In partnering with MetroED on their newly registered pre-apprenticeship program, the hands-on training will help ensure a skilled and prepared pre-apprentice who will hopefully become part of Ironworkers Local 377,” said Charlie Hernandez, who oversees Ironworkers Local 377. “We look forward to working with MetroED for many years to come.” Learn more about Ironworkers Local 377 at www.ironworkers377.com.

Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year opens January 20 through each student’s home high school counselor. With this new approval, SVCTE will begin registering eligible students in the state’s apprenticeship system using the newly authorized Division of Apprenticeship Standards processes.

The Field Ironworkers Pre-Apprenticeship program joins SVCTE’s extensive lineup of career pathways, providing students with industry-standard training, opportunities for college credit, and strong connections to local employers.

For more information about SVCTE courses, visit svcte.org. View information on the SVCTE Pre-Apprenticeship Program webpage, svcte.metroed.net/Course-Information/College-CreditPre-Apprenticeship/Ironworkers-Pre-Apprenticeship/index.html.