College Leads the Way in Workforce Development at Inland Empire Apprenticeship Expo
In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, Moreno Valley College (MVC) hosted the largest apprenticeship expo in California, spotlighting the urgent need for skilled workers across the Inland Empire. Held at the Moreno Valley Conference and Recreation Center on November 19, the Inland Empire Apprenticeship Expo drew more than 1,400 attendees, including over 1,100 high school students in the morning session and more than 300 community members in the afternoon. Now in its fourth year, the expo continues to be a key workforce development event, connecting students with high-demand career opportunities and bridging the gap between education and industry.
The idea for the Apprenticeship Expo began with Rosalinda Rivas' experience at Chaffey College, where she helped organize Manufacturers Day, a similar event for San Bernardino County high school students and local manufacturers. Building on that success, Rivas envisioned expanding the concept regionally to include apprenticeship opportunities across Riverside and San Bernardino counties. With the support of local partners, the first expo was held in 2021, attracting over 435 high school students despite the challenges posed by COVID-19. This year, the event reached new heights, cementing its place as the largest apprenticeship expo in the state.
"Events like this allow students and community members to connect with apprenticeship opportunities offering real, hands-on career experiences," Rivas said. "By partnering with local schools and employers, we provide a platform where the community can explore how apprenticeships can help build careers without student loan debt."
In collaboration with the City of Moreno Valley’s Workforce Development Division and regional partners, the expo showcased career pathways in the building and construction trades, automotive, nursing, manufacturing, clean energy, cybersecurity, and other industries. Students from 32 high schools across Riverside and San Bernardino counties explored opportunities to "earn while they learn."
"The success of this event is thanks to the incredible collaboration among MVC, the City of Moreno Valley, Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE), San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS), Norco College, Riverside City College, the Inland Empire Labor Institute, and others," Rivas said. "These collaborations have been pivotal in ensuring the event’s growth and impact."
For students like those from Moreno Valley Unified School District, the expo provided invaluable direction. "I knew I didn’t want to attend a four-year school, but I didn’t know what else to do. Coming here today opened my eyes to what’s possible through apprenticeships," said one student attending the event.
As retirements leave gaps in critical industries, apprenticeships offer a solution. Vice President of Academic Affairs Joumana McGowan, Ed.D., shared, "It was just four years ago that Rosalinda Rivas envisioned a future where Moreno Valley College would be at the heart of a movement to bridge the gap between education and registered apprenticeships. Today, MVC is proud to offer apprenticeship pathways in IT and Cybersecurity, opening doors to industries that will shape our economy.
In addition to connecting students with apprenticeships, the expo provided resources on industry certifications and guidance on securing an apprenticeship. Over 270 job openings were highlighted, with 145 of those from local businesses in Moreno Valley.
The event also earned recognition from the City of Moreno Valley, which honored MVC with the Mayor’s Recognition Award for leadership in workforce development. Keith Gemmell, the city's business & workforce development division manager, emphasized the importance of education and workforce partnerships in strengthening the Inland Empire.
Looking ahead, Rivas sees the expo as a catalyst for continued workforce development. "This event is just the beginning," she said. "As we expand our partnerships, we will help ensure the Inland Empire has a thriving, skilled workforce for tomorrow."
