Cabrillo College IT Institute Expands into New Pre-Apprentice Certificate

Dec 8

Aptos, CA — December 2025 — Cabrillo College is expanding its impact on the Central Coast tech workforce with the Spring 2026 launch of its sixth IT Institute cohort, now formally integrated into the college’s new Information Technology (IT) Institute Pre-Apprentice Certificate of Achievement.

The IT Institute is an 11-week hybrid training experience that blends hands-on technical instruction, professional development, and credential preparation for individuals seeking entry-level pathways into IT support, networking, and cybersecurity roles. The Spring 2026 session begins January 23, 2026.

This year marks a major milestone: the Institute is now part of a stackable Cabrillo College certificate, meaning participants earn transcripted academic recognition that can build toward additional CIS certificates, degrees, and the IT Support Apprenticeship Certificate of Achievement. With one additional course — CIS 103: Tech Support as a Profession — students may complete the new Pre-Apprentice Certificate and become eligible to apply for Cabrillo’s paid apprenticeship program with local employers.

“The IT Institute opens doors for adult learners, career changers, and new talent entering our region’s tech workforce,” said Terri Oropeza, Cabrillo CIS faculty member and program coordinator. “As the Institute becomes part of a formal, stackable certificate pathway, we’re better aligning with industry needs and giving employers access to motivated, job-ready candidates equipped with both technical and professional skills.”

Program Highlights

Duration: January 23 – April 18, 2026
Format: Hybrid model combining instructor-led instruction and self-paced study
Class Schedule: Monday–Friday between 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (with occasional Friday/Saturday sessions)
Core Course: CIS 71 – IT Essentials (10 weeks)
Career Skills Series: Self-Management, Job Readiness, Success at Work, and Career Satisfaction
Certificates Earned:

○ Cisco IT Essentials Digital Badge

○ Cisco Intro to Cybersecurity Badge

○ Cisco Cybersecurity Essentials Badge

○ Preparation toward Google IT Support and CompTIA A+ certifications

Pathway: Completion of CIS 71 + DMCP sequence → add CIS 103 → earn the IT Institute Pre-Apprentice Certificate of Achievement → eligibility for IT Support Apprenticeship

The IT Institute attracts adult learners, veterans, career changers, and current Cabrillo students, building a diverse pipeline of local talent with hands-on experience in hardware, software, networking, operating systems, cybersecurity fundamentals, troubleshooting, and customer support.