A new pathway into technology careers is coming to Los Angeles County.

The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) recently celebrated the inauguration of its new Network Engineering, Cybersecurity, Education Software, IT Apprenticeship (NECESITA) program with a signing ceremony alongside the U.S. Department of Labor.

The event marked the official approval of apprenticeship standards with the U.S. Department of Labor for the program and the creation of a new Information Technology Trainee classification, opening doors for future apprentices to gain hands-on experience while building careers in technology.

Deputy Regional Director Aaron Wall of the U.S. Department of Labor joined José R. González, LACOE Chief Technology Officer, to sign the agreement and commemorate this important milestone.

"Today's signing represents more than an agreement, it represents opportunity," said González. "Through NECESITA, we are creating meaningful pathways that connect education, workforce training and employment, helping learners gain the skills and experience needed to thrive in the technology sector."

Designed for aspiring technology professionals, NECESITA will provide participants with paid, on-the-job training in networking, cybersecurity, information technology, and related fields. The program is open to high school and college students, career changers, and anyone interested in  pursuing a career in technology.

Participants will learn from experienced technology professionals while developing technical and workplace skills through structured training,  mentorship, and real-world projects. Upon completion, apprentices will earn industry-recognized credentials that can help them advance into high-demand technology careers.

Wall praised the partnership and the opportunities the program will create.

"I do want to congratulate the Los Angeles County Office of Education," Wall said. "This is exciting because I'm a believer in apprenticeships. You're doing great things for apprentices. You're paying people, but you're also filling an employment need. The people you're training will be prepared to do the work you need them to do. I look forward to seeing this program grow and expand into other occupations."

The NECESITA program reflects a growing commitment by education,  government and industry partners to create innovative workforce pathways that help learners gain valuable experience while meeting the demand for skilled technology professionals.

Applications for the inaugural NECESITA cohort will open on July 1, 2026, and remain open until all positions are filled. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early, as space is limited.

As technology careers continue to grow across every industry, programs like NECESITA offer a practical path for learners to gain experience, earn credentials and build rewarding careers close to home.

For more information about the NECESITA program and application details, visit the LACOE website.