For Union Locals
Join Us in Growing a Certified, Job-Ready Workforce in Telecommunications
Dear Union Family,
I’m reaching out on behalf of the CWA District Nine Apprenticeship & Training Trust Fund, a state- and federally-approved program addressing the growing need for skilled, certified technicians in telecommunications and fiber optics.
Our program, operated through a Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) between CWA and the American Communications Contractors Association (ACCA), is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor statewide and with the California DAS north of Kern County.
We offer no-cost training that includes OSHA certifications, college-level instruction through Chabot College, and industry-recognized credentials in telecommunications and fiber optics. Apprentices earn college credit while training on the job with participating employers.
How You Can Help
Many of your members already work for, or know of, companies that would benefit from this program. Here’s how you can support us:
- Connect us with employers your Local represents so we can schedule a meeting and discuss the value of certification, compliance, and local union power through apprenticeship.
- Identify and refer companies – especially those working on public projects – that could benefit from structured safety training and certification to meet the 1:1 apprentice-to-journeyman ratio.
- Assist with organizing new companies into the JATC with the help of CWA District 9’s Organizing Coordinator. Member engagement is key to growing our influence.
This program strengthens jobsite safety, compliance, and quality—and helps reclaim union strength in an industry that’s seen declining representation. With your support, we can build a workforce that protects jobs, elevates standards, and secures our future.
In solidarity,
Jonathan Alvarado
Program Administrator