Cindy Crisanto Overcomes Obstacles to Pursue Construction Career
Cindy Crisanto, a single mother of two, has embarked on a new journey as an ironworker apprentice thanks to a child care benefit provided by California’s state apprenticeship program. Her story echoes the struggles faced by many women trying to break into male-dominated industries while balancing family responsibilities. With an $800 monthly subsidy for child care expenses, she can now pursue her dream career without worrying about her children’s well-being while she works on the construction site of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles.
State Initiative Aims to Increase Women in Construction Trades
Governor Gavin Newsom has spearheaded an initiative to expand apprenticeship opportunities in various fields to attract Californians who may not pursue traditional college degrees. The program, funded by the Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship Grant (ERICA), seeks to enroll half a million individuals in state-supported apprenticeships by 2029. Child care subsidies are a key component of this effort, offering up to $10,000 annually to participants like Cindy Crisanto, enabling them to focus on their training without worrying about child care expenses.
Challenges and Rewards of Women in Apprenticeships
Despite the progress made in recruiting more women into construction apprenticeships, challenges persist. Women like Rocio Campos and Dulce Martinez have shared their inspiring stories of overcoming obstacles to pursue rewarding careers in the construction industry. The child care subsidies provided by the state have been instrumental in helping these women balance work and family responsibilities while honing their skills in various trades. As more women enter apprenticeships and gain valuable experience, the hope is that they will continue to thrive in these male-dominated fields and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.