New Study Reveals Disparities in Construction Apprenticeship Access

A new study examining apprenticeship programs in the Sacramento construction industry has found significant disparities in enrollment, retention, and completion rates among different demographic groups.

The research, which analyzed data from 15 apprenticeship programs across the region, found that African American workers represent approximately 14% of the Sacramento metropolitan population but account for only 8% of active construction apprentices. Women make up roughly 3% of construction apprentices, well below the federal goal of 6.9%.

The study identified several barriers to entry including limited outreach in underserved communities, transportation challenges, lack of awareness about apprenticeship opportunities, and limited supportive services for apprentices facing personal or economic challenges.