Apprentice Graduates Transition to Journey Level Employment on the State Water Project

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) is celebrating 21 recent graduates of the Department’s Operations and Maintenance Apprenticeship Program as they launch their hydroelectric industry careers and safeguard the resilience of the California State Water Project (SWP).

 

The program teaches apprentices how to operate and maintain the SWP that delivers a reliable, sustainable, and affordable water supply for 27 million Californians and 750,000 acres of farmland. Utility Craftsworkers and Hydroelectric Plant (HEP) Mechanics, Electricians, and Operators who complete the program join DWR’s workforce.

 

“The Apprenticeship Program provides hands-on-learning, classroom work, home study, and college credit for most of the courses, with supervised on-the-job-training at various locations in California,” said Erika Arias, Apprenticeship Program Training Center Supervisor. “Along with opening the door to a rewarding career in the hydroelectric industry for participants, the program provides a workforce that is ready to run the State Water Project.”

 

To graduate, apprentices must complete three to four years in the program, where they train in topics such as hydraulics, motors and generators, and gas and arc welding.

 

“Hydroelectric apprenticeship programs are crucial in today’s workforce,” said Raul Salcedo, Hydroelectric Plant Electrician apprentice graduate. “Workers are equipped with the technical skills needed to maintain and operate hydroelectric facilities, ensuring a reliable and clean energy supply.”

 

Since the program was created in 1971, 652 apprentices have graduated (including 520 HEP and 132 Utility Craftsworker positions).

 

“The apprenticeship is an incredible professional opportunity for anyone who is interested in building a career for themselves,” said Matt Dahl, a Hydroelectric Plant Mechanic apprentice graduate. “The apprenticeship not only allows you to grow as a member of the workforce but is also fulfilling on an individual level. Knowing that every day you come in to work to help facilitate affordable water and power delivery in the greatest state in the union is a priceless experience.”

 

DWR is now recruiting for the 2024-25 apprenticeship program. The exams and job vacancies open June 26, 2024 for a limited time. Applicants must have a high school diploma, be 18 years of age, and have a desire to learn skills to succeed in the program.

 

Exam and job vacancy information and learn more about the apprenticeship process.

 

2024 Apprentice Program Graduates

Oroville Field Division

Matthew Dahl

HEP Mechanic

 

Jaime Salcedo

HEP Electrician

 

Delta Field Division

Shawn Bridgford

HEP Operator

 

Tyler McClellon

HEP Mechanic

 

Dawn Pascale

HEP Operator

 

Raul Salcedo

HEP Electrician

 

Brendan Schwerin

HEP Mechanic

 

San Luis Field Division

Crystal Trueblood

HEP Operator

 

Eduardo Madrigal

HEP Electrician

 

San Joaquin Field Division

Mitchell Cook

HEP Mechanic

 

Desiree Perez

HEP Mechanic

 

Trenton Peters

HEP Operator

 

Robert Ruelas

HEP Operator

 

Ronald Segura

HEP Electrician

 

Southern Field Division

Alex Grimes

Utility Craftsworker

 

Roy Hannah

HEP Operator

 

Brandon Howell

HEP Mechanic

 

Alfonso Jaime

HEP Mechanic

 

Manuel Sanchez

HEP Electrician

 

Sarah Ulloa

HEP Operator

 

Saul Zuazo

Utility Craftsworker