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In 1971, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) was bringing most of its facilities online. To assist in meeting the Department’s need for skilled personnel, the Division of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) initiated its first apprentice program. Later, the apprentice program was expanded to include the training of Hydroelectric Plant Operators, Hydroelectric Electricians, and Utility Craftsworkers.
The apprentice programs continued to be administered by the Division of Operations and Maintenance, along with a Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC) consisting of equal members of management and labor. To maintain accreditation, all rules and standards set by this committee for the respective programs must adhere to guidelines set forth by the Division of Apprentice standards, Department of Industrial Relations.
The Hydroelectric Plant Operator and Utility Crafts apprenticeships are three-year programs and the Hydroelectric Mechanic and Electrician apprenticeships are four-year programs. These four apprentice disciplines consist of home study (related training) and on-the-job-training at the five Field Divisions and two flood yards. Apprentices are also required to attend as many as 22 classes at the O&M Training Center, depending on their chosen craft, located at the San Joaquin Field Division. Apprentice progress is monitored closely by regularly scheduled testing and evaluation in the areas of: home study, hands-on proficiency, six month final exams and classroom/lab attendance and performance.