November marks the U.S. Department of Labor’s 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week! This nationwide celebration highlights the power of apprenticeships in building a skilled workforce tailored to meet industry demands, opening doors for career seekers, and strengthening our community.

At Monterey County Works, we’re proud to champion paid training initiatives like our Tri-County Pre-Apprentice Training, a paid internship program that serves as a bridge to a full apprenticeship in the building trades industry. Additionally, programs such as our Green Cadre, Health Cadre, Certified Nursing Aid program, Winter Storm Restoration Project, and more, provide paid, hands-on training that empowers individuals to step confidently into good jobs and fulfilling careers.

Discover more about how our programs are creating pathways to success for both job seekers and employers in Monterey County!

Meet the Board: Cesar Lara

Cesar Lara has been a member of the Monterey County Workforce Development Board (MCWDB) since 2007 where he currently serves as the Vice Chair. The positive impact that the MCWDB has on businesses and residents is the primary reason why Cesar has devoted so much time and energy to the Board. He is especially proud of the work that the MCWDB does to help create pathways to good-paying jobs, especially for those clients who have not pursued or completed a college degree.

Cesar is currently the Director of Workforce and Economic Development for the 2.1 million union members at the California Labor Federation. The California Labor Federation is made up of more than 1,200 unions across California in manufacturing, retail, construction, hospitality, public sector, health care, entertainment, and other industries.

The California Labor Federation is dedicated to promoting and defending the interests of working people and their families for the betterment of California’s Communities. From legislative campaigns to grassroots organizing, our affiliates are actively engaged in every aspect of California’s economy and government.

Cesar Lara is very active on several statewide and local boards besides his role at the California Labor Federation. He is the former Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 890 and former Director of Policy and Programs for MILPA (a criminal justice organization), and Director of the Central Coast Citizenship Project in East Salinas, California, helping workers become citizens. Cesar also previously served as the State Director for the United Farm Workers Nonprofit La Union Del Pueblo Entero (LUPE) and was a Congressional Aid to Congressman Sam Farr.

Cesar attended California State University, Chico, and obtained his bachelor's degree in international relations. The child of immigrant farm workers, immigrant rights, and the needs of his community are a priority in his life.

A Journey of Growth with the Winter Storm Restoration Project

Ricardo Hernandez’s journey with the Winter Storm Restoration Project (WSRP) has been transformative. For him, participating in WSRP was more than just a job—it was an opportunity to refocus and solidify his professional goals. As a WSRP participant, he strengthened essential skills in leadership, communication, and planning, pushing himself both physically and mentally. This focused commitment has left him with a renewed sense of confidence and clarity about his career. His next step? Returning to school to complete his IT degree, with an eye on future public service in Monterey County’s IT sector.

The Winter Storm Restoration Project itself addresses critical needs in Monterey County. After the devastating 2023 winter storms, which caused widespread property destruction, the WSRP was launched to help repair and restore the region's parks and public lands. For those who want to make a real impact in the community, the WSRP offers a rewarding chance to contribute to the restoration of Monterey County’s natural beauty. Ricardo’s story is just one example of how WSRP participants are making a difference while gaining valuable skills that will serve them for years to come.

Make a Career out of Making a Difference: Become a Certified Nursing Assistant!

Train for this rewarding healthcare career in just six weeks! Our Nursing Assistant program prepares students to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). The curriculum covers safety, anatomy, nutrition, infection control, patient care, proper lifting techniques, and helping patients with rehabilitation. Graduates of the program are ready to provide quality care and pursue certification.

CNA Program Pre-Requisites: 

• Proof of age (18 years or older)
• High School Diploma/GED
• Recent physical exam (within 90 days of class start)
• Live scan fingerprints
• TB test results
• Flu shot
• Covid vaccine
• Hepatitis B Series proof

The program runs from January 6, 2025 – February 14, 2025. There are only 15 available slots for this program, so apply today! Learn more and apply here: www.montereycountyworks.com/cna.

Monterey County Unemployment Rate Mirrors State and National Trends

Monterey County's unemployment rate increased slightly from 4.9% in September to 5.2% in October, likely due to the winding down of the agricultural season. However, this October's rate remained consistent with the previous year's 5.2%.

Statewide, California's unemployment rate also rose slightly, from 5.3% to 5.4% in October. Nationally, the U.S. unemployment rate held steady at 3.9% in October.