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Paso Robles High School

Bearcat PRIDE

Workforce

Entering the Workforce After High School

Entering the workforce immediately after high school is an increasingly viable option for many graduates who are eager to begin their professional journeys. With the rising costs of higher education and the diverse range of career paths available, many students are choosing to explore opportunities beyond the traditional college route. Options such as vocational schools, trade schools, and union apprenticeships provide practical, hands-on training that can lead to fulfilling careers in fields like healthcare, automotive technology, and construction. Additionally, pursuing certification programs can be a strategic way to gain specialized skills and qualifications in a shorter timeframe. These pathways not only facilitate quicker entry into the workforce but also offer the potential for lucrative and stable careers, underscoring the value of considering alternative educational routes after high school.

Local Trade Unions training for a Career

International Brotherhood of Eletrical Workers (IBEW) –  Local 639

IBEW offers a five-year program that combines classroom and on-the-job learning.  And, you earn while you learn, including benefits!  At the successful completion of the program, you will graduate as a state certified Journeyman Inside Wireman and be looking at a rewarding career future.

Contact Info
IBEW Local 639
6363 Edna Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
805.543.5693
Email Training Director

Plumbers & Steamfitters – Local 403

Local Union 403 proudly represents the hardest working, highly skilled men and women in the plumbing, pipefitting and HVACR industry.  Their premier training programs offer a five-year apprenticeship program, and extensive journeymen upgrade training. Apprentices earn a percentage of the Journeymen scale while on the job, working under the supervision of a Journeman. 

Contact Info
Plumbers & Steamfitters - Local 403
3710 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Email Local 403

Carpenters Union

Completing one of our apprenticeship programs is the best way to start your Carpenter career. Through our earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship approach, you have an extraordinary opportunity to learn in-demand construction skills. You can earn a good, living wage for you and your family—right from the start.

Contact Info
Carpenters Union Local
2210 Preisker Lane
Santa Maria, CA 93458
Phone (805) 928-3094 
Fax (805) 928-3081
Email Carpenters Local

Local Career Programs

  • Cuesta Career Technical Education

    With dozens of certificates offered by Cuesta's Career Technical Education programs, you can explore a variety of programs designed to get you fast-tracked to the career you want, with the skills you need.

  • Cuesta Skilled Trades and Technology

    Skilled Trades and Technology programs prepare you for high-demand, hands-on careers that keep the world moving.

  • Cuesta Career Training Programs

    Cuesta College, in partnership with ed2go, offers self paced online open enrollment programs designed to provide the skills necessary to acquire professional level positions for many in-demand occupations.

  • Cuesta Certificated Training Programs

    Cuesta College, in partnership with ed2go, offers online open enrollment programs designed to provide the skills necessary to acquire professional level positions for many in-demand occupations.

  • Cuesta Six-Week Short Courses

    Fit class work into your schedule at work, home or on vacation at any time of the day. Some employers will pay for classes that will enhance your job performance and some will even allow you to do class work on the job.

  • Allan Hancock College

    Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria offers certificated programs just like Cuesta College. You can explore a variety of programs designed to get you fast-tracked to the career you want, with the skills you need.

  • Slo Partners

    Up your career opportunities, right here on the Central Coast. Slo Partners intensive bootcamp programs teach in-demand skills to help you find a great career with a great local company.

  • SloCal Careers

    If you are ages 16-24 and out of school, you can get paid while you learn skills that lead to a good job. SLO Cal Careers will connect you with a case manager who helps you set goals and develop a plan for your professional future, including a paid internship.

  • Designs School of Cosmetology

    Designs School of Cosmetology, Inc., is a nationally accredited provider of salon and spa education training for students seeking careers as cosmetologists, estheticians and manicurists. Preparing our students for state board is our top priority. As a nationally accredited institution DSC can offer students Federal Pell grants, and Federal Student loans to those who qualify.