CA AB579

Division of Apprenticeship Standards shall collaborate with California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee (CAL-JAC) to develop a statewide firefighter preapprenticeship program targeting recruitment of candidates from underrepresented groups.

Program must provide training and curriculum based on California firefighter standards to prepare candidates to pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), written tests, and oral components required for fire protection agency hiring.

Program must include Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training to help candidates meet the minimum qualifications required by most fire protection agencies.

CAL-JAC shall deliver pilot classes using existing facilities and training models, and provide the program model to fire protection agencies so they may establish local preapprenticeship programs using the same resources and curriculum.

Division of Apprenticeship Standards may use 5 percent of appropriated funds for administrative expenses and shall contract with CAL-JAC using remaining funds to develop curriculum, materials, and instructors for the pilot program.