Apprenticeships are one of the most effective tools for creating upward mobility. NOVAworks is translating the apprenticeship model’s proven results into a broader strategy for workforce innovation, showing how hands-on, collaborative training can strengthen the entire region.

Nationally, 90% of apprentices stay employed after completing their programs, often earning higher-than-average wages. In California, the typical apprentice earns nearly $22 an hour—and in NOVAworks’ regional Semiconductor Registered Apprenticeship program, retention reaches 88% with starting wages of $25.

A Regional Model for Innovation
Through the California Apprenticeship Initiative, NOVAworks is one of two regional workforce boards partnering with local community colleges and semiconductor industry associations to design and deliver a program that meets real employer demand.

De Anza College plays a central role by tailoring curriculum in close consultation with employers, while partner board work2future supports recruitment, application processing, and employer on-the-job training subsidies of up to $14,000 per apprentice.

What began with three companies—Applied Materials, Infinera, and Western Digital—has now doubled in size, reflecting growing confidence in this collaborative model. Overwhelming individual interest underscores the program’s relevance for career seekers who want to build careers in advanced manufacturing and related fields.

A Best Practice in Collaboration
One of the key lessons from this work is the value of a shared cohort model—multiple companies contributing apprentices to a single class. This approach ensures De Anza’s programs meet class size requirements and operate continuously, even as individual employers’ hiring needs fluctuate.

Deep Partnership, Real Results
With Western Digital, NOVAworks has extended this collaboration by providing staff consultation, meeting facilitation, and incumbent worker training that supports both new and existing employees. The result: a 93% retention rate and a model that’s now drawing interest from other regional community colleges for future apprenticeship programs in mechatronics and other emerging fields.

By bridging education, business, and opportunity, NOVAworks is redefining what workforce innovation means for Silicon Valley, and building a talent pipeline that’s both future-ready and rooted in community.