About
Empowering the next generation of technology professionals through paid on-the-job-training and hands-on experience at Los Angeles County Office of Education, Technology Services.
NECESITA is dedicated to preparing students for high-demand careers in technology through a registered apprenticeship program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. We aim to bridge the gap between technology, education and industry needs.
Mission
NECESITA—LACOE’s Network Engineering, Cybersecurity, Education Software, and Information Technology Apprenticeships—serves as a launchpad into the future of technology. Designed to open doors to high-demand, high-impact tech careers, NECESITA blends rigorous instruction with real-world, hands-on experience, preparing apprentices to succeed from day one.
Led by LACOE and built in partnership with industry, NECESITA connects learning directly to the skills employers need most—strengthening the technology talent pipeline across education and beyond. Through equitable access, mentorship, and innovation, the program cultivates a diverse, future-ready workforce equipped to support and advance technology solutions that empower schools and communities.
True to its name—necesita, Spanish for “need”—the program reflects a powerful idea: In an increasingly digital world, we need skilled professionals, we need opportunity, and we need each other to learn, grow, and advance together.
Vision
NECESITA envisions a future where equitable access to technology education transforms lives, strengthens schools, and fuels thriving communities. We aspire to be a premier apprenticeship model that bridges education and industry—developing highly skilled, service-driven technology professionals who lead with innovation, integrity, and purpose.
Through strong partnerships and a commitment to opportunity, NECESITA will help shape a resilient, inclusive technology workforce that meets the evolving needs of education and the digital world beyond.
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Program Details
- Paid Apprenticeship | Limited spots
- Start Date: July 1, 2026
- Location: LACOE, 9300 Imperial Hwy, Downey, CA 90242
What You’ll Learn
- Network installation, configuration and troubleshooting
- Routers, switches and IT infrastructure
- Cybersecurity fundamentals and threat detection
- Network security and system administration basics
- IT support skills and professional communication
Who Should Apply?
Ideal for high school students (ages 16+), college students, career changers and aspiring IT professionals. No prior experience required—just motivation to start a career in tech.
Certificates of Completion Overview
The NECESITA apprenticeship program is structured to ensure that, upon completion, apprentices are eligible for multiple industry-recognized certificates. These include:
Community College Certificates of Completion – Awarded for successful completion of required coursework in networking and cybersecurity, in partnership with our community college provider.
State of California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) Certificate – Issued upon meeting all program requirements and committee recommendation.
U.S. Department of Labor Certificate – Recognizes completion of a federally registered apprenticeship program.
These certificates validate program quality and compliance with state and federal standards, supporting workforce readiness and mobility.
Connect with Us
For questions about the NECESITA team, committee participation, or partnership opportunities, please email necesita@lacoe.edu.
