Connecting talent with employers in logging and forestry
California Registered Apprenticeship Forest Training (CRAFT) is the only one of its kind in California. The program is designed and managed by industry, supported by education, & registered with California’s Division of Apprenticeship Standards and Department of Industrial Relations. This structured training and education program combines on-the-job (OJT) training and classroom-based related supplemental instruction (RSI) that benefits both employer and apprentice. The future is apprenticeship!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
CRAFT is registered with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards and hosted by Shasta College.
Connecting talent with employers in logging and forestry
California Registered Apprenticeship Forest Training (CRAFT) is the only one of its kind in California. The program is designed and managed by industry, supported by education, & registered with California’s Division of Apprenticeship Standards and Department of Industrial Relations. This structured training and education program combines on-the-job (OJT) training and classroom-based related supplemental instruction (RSI) that benefits both employer and apprentice. The future is apprenticeship!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
CRAFT is registered with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards and hosted by Shasta College
Connecting talent with employers in logging and forestry
California Registered Apprenticeship Forest Training (CRAFT) is the only one of its kind in California. The program is designed and managed by industry, supported by education, & registered with California’s Division of Apprenticeship Standards and Department of Industrial Relations. This structured training and education program combines on-the-job (OJT) training and classroom-based related supplemental instruction (RSI) that benefits both employer and apprentice. The future is apprenticeship!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
CRAFT is registered with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards and hosted by Shasta College
Program Offerings
Pre-Apprenticeship Heavy Equipment Logging Operations (HELO)
This is a series of selected CTE courses providing the pre-apprentice knowledge of logging equipment operations, production logging equipment operations, equipment operations and maintenance, career planning and leadership for heavy equipment operators, beginning forestry, and commercial driver’s license learner’s permit preparation. Upon completion, the student is issued a certificate by Shasta College.The HELO pre-apprenticeship is one of many pathways into the apprenticeship program. While not required, the HELO curriculum does meet the training standards for acceptance into CRAFT. For more information, visit Shasta College Logging Program www.shastacollege.edu/helo
California Registered Apprenticeship Forest Training (CRAFT)
This is a program designed by industry and hosted by Shasta Community College that combines 272 related supplemental instruction (RSI) and 3,000 on-the-job training (OJT) hours under close supervision of the employer. The apprentice is a full-time, paid employee of the sponsoring business for the duration of the 24-month program and will receive mentorship, as well as wage progression, as they advance through the program. Selected RSI courses cover fire patrol, logging and forest operation of power saws, wilderness first aid, scaling techniques and processor operations, radio and map reading. After completion, the apprentice will be issued a state and industry recognized certificate of completion from the Division of Apprenticeship Standards.
Program Offerings
Pre-Apprenticeship Heavy Equipment Logging Operations (HELO)
PRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
This is a series of selected CTE courses providing the pre-apprentice knowledge of logging equipment operations, production logging equipment operations, equipment operations and maintenance, career planning and leadership for heavy equipment operators, beginning forestry, and commercial driver’s license learner’s permit preparation. Upon completion, the student is issued a certificate by Shasta College.The HELO pre-apprenticeship is one of many pathways into the apprenticeship program. While not required, the HELO curriculum does meet the training standards for acceptance into CRAFT. For more information, visit Shasta College Logging Program www.shastacollege.edu/helo
California Registered Apprenticeship Forest Training (CRAFT)
2 YEAR PAID APPRENTICESHIP
This is a program designed by industry and hosted by Shasta Community College that combines 272 related supplemental instruction (RSI) and 3,000 on-the-job training (OJT) hours under close supervision of the employer. The apprentice is a full-time, paid employee of the sponsoring business for the duration of the 24-month program and will receive mentorship, as well as wage progression, as they advance through the program. Selected RSI courses cover fire patrol, logging and forest operation of power saws, wilderness first aid, scaling techniques and processor operations, radio and map reading. After completion, the apprentice will be issued a state and industry recognized certificate of completion from the Division of Apprenticeship Standards.
Get Program Information and Connect With Us
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Why Choose CRAFT?
CRAFT provides apprentices the opportunity to improve and refine their skills in a real-world setting.
“The program affords both the employer and apprentice the chance to test drive one another for an ideal fit and lasting employment relationship. CRAFT will provide an induction of much needed young workers, as well as empower businesses to shift from continuous training to productive time on task benefitting the entire forest industry.”
Ted James, CRAFT committee member & Lassen District Manager at Sierra Pacific Industries
Benefits for Apprentices
Learn By Doing
Develop the skills the industry is looking for through on-the-job learning in a work setting or classroom setting.
Paid, Full-Time Job
Apprentices are paid employees who produce high-quality work while they learn skills that enhance their employers’ needs.
No Student Debt
As an apprentice in CRAFT, you will not incur any student debt for required courses or supplies to be successful.
Mentorship
Provides apprentices with the additional support of a skilled worker to assist and enhance critical hands-on learning.
Credentials
Offers a portable, state and industry-recognized certificate to be issued at the completion of the program.
Benefits for Employers
State Recognized
CRAFT serves the entire state of California so that other institutions and employers can collaborate with the apprenticeship and share in the success!
Improve Productivity
Increase profitability and make a positive impact to your bottom line by developing apprentices through mentorship, relevant education, and hands-on learning.
Reduced Turnover
Minimize cost with reduced turnover and liability from inexperienced and low-skilled employees. Apprentices are paid employees that want to increase their knowledge and skills.
Customized Training
With 272 RSI hours and 3,000 OJT hours, the CRAFT program allows you to create flexible training options that ensure workers develop the right skills to fit your needs.
Retain Diverse Workers
Most apprentices continue as proficient employees with a wide range of skills and potential after completing an apprenticeship, saving you time and money on finding quality employees.
CRAFT is led by a dedicated team of industry leaders and experts from Northern California who compose the Unilateral Training Committee (UTC).
CRAFT Committee Members:
Zane Peterson, Peterson Timber, Inc., Chair
Ted James, Sierra Pacific Industries
Delbert Gannon, Creekside Logging, Inc.
Chris & Natalie Peterson, Chris Peterson Logging
Carol King-Perea, Sierra Cascade Logging Conference
Eric Carleson, Associated California Loggers
Advisors:
Charlie Richards, Division of Apprenticeship Standards
Jonas Lindblom, Heavy Equipment Logging Faculty
Becky Roe, Director of Forest Health
Angela Cordell, Sr. Project Coordinator Employer Engagement
Lisa Petty, Apprenticeship Project Coordinator
CRAFT is a unique and valuable opportunity to Connect industry with a skilled workforce!
CRAFT creates a pipeline that provides apprentices with the industry-selected education and hands-on training needed to be successful in the logging and forest industry. Partnering with employers, apprentices in this non-traditional industry across California share in the benefits of this earn-and-learn program. Take control of your career pathway with no college debt, on-the-job training, a livable wage, an industry and state recognized certificate, and a career that is challenging, rewarding, and prosperous. This apprenticeship serves those re-entering the workforce, new to the industry, or even those already employed but needing to upskill! There is a solution to the skills gap between the logging and forest industry and a skilled workforce, and that solution is CRAFT!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
CRAFT is a unique and valuable opportunity to Connect industry with a skilled workforce!
CRAFT creates a pipeline that provides apprentices with the industry-selected education and hands-on training needed to be successful in the logging and forest industry. Partnering with employers, apprentices in this non-traditional industry across California share in the benefits of this earn-and-learn program. Take control of your career pathway with no college debt, on-the-job training, a livable wage, an industry and state recognized certificate, and a career that is challenging, rewarding, and prosperous. This apprenticeship serves those re-entering the workforce, new to the industry, or even those already employed but needing to upskill! There is a solution to the skills gap between the logging and forest industry and a skilled workforce, and that solution is CRAFT!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
CRAFT is a unique and valuable opportunity to Connect industry with a skilled workforce!
CRAFT creates a pipeline that provides apprentices with the industry-selected education and hands-on training needed to be successful in the logging and forest industry. Partnering with employers, apprentices in this non-traditional industry across California share in the benefits of this earn-and-learn program. Take control of your career pathway with no college debt, on-the-job training, a livable wage, an industry and state recognized certificate, and a career that is challenging, rewarding, and prosperous. This apprenticeship serves those re-entering the workforce, new to the industry, or even those already employed but needing to upskill! There is a solution to the skills gap between the logging and forest industry and a skilled workforce, and that solution is CRAFT!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
The Steps
The first step to becoming a CRAFT APPRENTICE is filling out our APPLICATION form
You can fill out the application form now or request more information from our project coordinator.
We’ll send you our handbook for review
Our Apprenticeship Coordinator will reach out to discuss any questions or concerns regarding the program and the handbook. We can help you fill out the Apprenticeship Application at this point if needed.
You’ll meet with the Unilateral Training committee
The Unilateral Training Committee (UTC) holds a monthly meeting to review and approve new applications. You should plan to bring an updated resume, education certificates, etc. Your current skills and knowledge can be used to place you within the four progression steps of the program, allowing those with experience to receive credit for prior learning.
Once Approved by the Unilateral Training Committee (UTC)
If you’re currently employed by a Sponsor Employer:
You will continue working with your employer and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
If you’re not currently employed by a Sponsor Employer:
The UTC and Apprenticeship Coordinator will place you with a registered Sponsor Employer. Once placed, you will be an employee of the Sponsor Employer and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
You’ll attend program orientation
Everyone entering the CRAFT program attends orientation to celebrate and kickoff the start of the program.
START YOUR APPRENTICESHIP
Follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations, including attending specified RSI courses and check-ins with the Apprenticeship Coordinator. After completion of the program, you will receive an industry and state recognized certificate!
The first step to becoming a CRAFT APPRENTICEship Sponsor business is filling out our APPLICATION form
You can fill out the application form now or request more information from our project coordinator.
We’ll send you our handbook for review
Our Apprenticeship Coordinator will reach out to meet you and discuss any questions or concerns regarding the program and the handbook. We can help you fill out the Employer Application at this point if needed.
You’ll meet with the Unilateral Training committee
The Unilateral Training Committee (UTC) holds a montly meeting to review and approve new applications. You should plan to attend and answer a few questions about your business.
Once Approved by the Unilateral Training Committee (UTC)
You will work with the Apprenticeship Coordinator to complete final paperwork and complete your registration with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards. You’ll be given a unique ID# and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
Sponsor New Apprentices
Work with the Apprenticeship Coordinator to Send existing employees or sponsor new employees as apprentices through the CRAFT program by referring them to the steps for Apprentices.
THE STEPS FOR APPRENTICES
THE FIRST STEP TO BECOMING A CRAFT APPRENTICE IS FILLING OUT OUR APPLICATION FORM
You can fill out the application form now or request more information from our project coordinator.
We’ll send you our handbook for review
Our Apprenticeship Coordinator will reach out to discuss any questions or concerns regarding the program and the handbook. We can help you fill out the Apprenticeship Application at this point if needed.
You’ll meet with the Unilateral Training committee
Our Apprenticeship Coordinator will reach out to discuss any questions or concerns regarding the program and the handbook. We can help you fill out the Apprenticeship Application at this point if needed.
Once Approved by the Unilateral Training Committee (UTC)
If you’re currently employed by a Sponsor Employer:
You will continue working with your employer and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
If you’re not currently employed by a Sponsor Employer:
The UTC and Apprenticeship Coordinator will place you with a registered Sponsor Employer. Once placed, you will be an employee of the Sponsor Employer and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
You’ll attend program orientation
Everyone entering the CRAFT program attends orientation to celebrate and kickoff the start of the program.
START YOUR APPRENTICESHIP
Follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations, including attending specified RSI courses and check-ins with the Apprenticeship Coordinator. After completion of the program, you will receive an industry and state recognized certificate!
THE STEPS FOR EMPLOYERS
The first step to becoming a CRAFT APPRENTICEship Sponsor business is filling out our APPLICATION form
You can fill out the application form now or request more information from our project coordinator.
We’ll send you our handbook for review
Our Apprenticeship Coordinator will reach out to meet you and discuss any questions or concerns regarding the program and the handbook. We can help you fill out the Employer Application at this point if needed.
You’ll meet with the Unilateral Training committee
The Unilateral Training Committee (UTC) holds a monthly meeting to review and approve new applications. You should plan to attend and answer a few questions about your business.
Once Approved by the Unilateral Training Committee (UTC)
You will work with the Apprenticeship Coordinator to complete final paperwork and complete your registration with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards. You’ll be given a unique ID# and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
Sponsor New Apprentices
Work with the Apprenticeship Coordinator to Send existing employees or sponsor new employees as apprentices through the CRAFT program by referring them to the steps for Apprentices.
The Steps for Apprentices
1 - THE FIRST STEP TO BECOMING A CRAFT APPRENTICE IS FILLING OUT OUR APPLICATION FORM
You can fill out the application form now or request more information from our project coordinator.
2 - WE’LL SEND YOU OUR HANDBOOK FOR REVIEW
Our Apprenticeship Coordinator will reach out to discuss any questions or concerns regarding the program and the handbook. We can help you fill out the Apprenticeship Application at this point if needed.
3 - YOU’LL MEET WITH THE UNILATERAL TRAINING COMMITTEE
The Unilateral Training Committee (UTC) holds a monthly meeting to review and approve new applications. You should plan to bring an updated resume, education certificates, etc. Your current skills and knowledge can be used to place you within the four progression steps of the program, allowing those with experience to receive credit for prior learning.
4 - ONCE APPROVED BY THE UNILATERAL TRAINING COMMITTEE (UTC)
If you’re currently employed by a Sponsor Employer:
You will continue working with your employer and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
If you’re not currently employed by a Sponsor Employer:
The UTC and Apprenticeship Coordinator will place you with a registered Sponsor Employer. Once placed, you will be an employee of the Sponsor Employer and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
5 - YOU’LL ATTEND PROGRAM ORIENTATION
Everyone entering the CRAFT program attends orientation to celebrate and kickoff the start of the program.
6 - START YOUR APPRENTICESHIP
Follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations, including attending specified RSI courses and check-ins with the Apprenticeship Coordinator. After completion of the program, you will receive an industry and state recognized certificate!
The Steps for Employers
1 - THE FIRST STEP TO BECOMING A CRAFT APPRENTICESHIP SPONSOR BUSINESS IS FILLING OUT OUR APPLICATION FORM
You can fill out the application form now or request more information from our project coordinator.
2 - WE’LL SEND YOU OUR HANDBOOK FOR REVIEW
Our Apprenticeship Coordinator will reach out to meet you and discuss any questions or concerns regarding the program and the handbook. We can help you fill out the Employer Application at this point if needed.
3 - YOU’LL MEET WITH THE UNILATERAL TRAINING COMMITTEE
The Unilateral Training Committee (UTC) holds a montly meeting to review and approve new applications. You should plan to attend and answer a few questions about your business.
4 - ONCE APPROVED BY THE UNILATERAL TRAINING COMMITTEE (UTC)
You will work with the Apprenticeship Coordinator to complete final paperwork and complete your registration with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards. You’ll be given a unique ID# and will follow the Apprenticeship Standards and Apprenticeship Rules & Regulations.
5 - SPONSOR NEW APPRENTICES
Work with the Apprenticeship Coordinator to Send existing employees or sponsor new employees as apprentices through the CRAFT program by referring them to the steps for Apprentices.
"Logging is essential to the way we live life"
The CRAFT apprenticeship program is an option I chose to further my employability in the logging industry. To me, it’s an important program because we are lacking workforce in the industry and logging is essential to the way we live life. Lumber, paper products, and clean power generation are just a few examples of everyday requirements for our industry.”
Sawyer Seth, CRAFT Apprentice at Peterson Timber
"An amazing opportunity to get back into school and work at the same time"
My name is Arne Aase and I was fortunate enough to find the CRAFT program and Sarabeth Angel-Towner to assist me with finding the education and career I longed for. The CRAFT program through Shasta College is giving me an amazing opportunity to get back into school and work at the same time. The apprenticeship has placed me with access to several major employers in the north state with great possibility for advancement. It means a lot to me to get the opportunity to get more education that is directly related to the field in which I long to build a career. I look forward to becoming an asset to a team, working hard, and gaining college education through the CRAFT program. This is a huge opportunity for myself and my family to gain the financial stability that comes from a career. I would absolutely recommend anyone to pursue the opportunity that CRAFT offers through Shasta College, they have given me a great opportunity to build a long lasting career.“
"Craft offers an extra skillset and marketability to my portfolio"
CRAFT is a new program that I am excited to be a part of. As a graduate in spring 2021, I immediately went to work for Creekside Logging. I am fortunate to have an employer that strives to get the best every employee has to offer. I realized this summer, that some skills are developed through repetition, and on the job situations that present themselves. I was hired to drive the “water truck” and it was my first experience driving alone. Fortunately, I kept the truck right-side up, but I quickly learned to respect the weight of liquid under transport. Craft offers an extra skillset and marketability to my portfolio when completed, as-well-as, added confidence, safety, and experience in and around Forestry. Thank you for this opportunity.”
Becky Diesslin, CRAFT Apprentice at Creekside Logging
Get Program Information and Connect With Us
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Frequently Asked Questions
Apprentices
I’m interested in becoming an apprentice! How do I get started?
Great! Please fill out the Apprentice Interest Form at the top and bottom of this page and we’ll be in touch! In the meantime, take a look at The Steps section to get an idea of the process.
I’m currently not working in the industry, what do I do?
You don’t need to be currently working in the forestery industry to be accepted into the program. If approved you will be placed with a sponsor employer as a full-time employee.
What happens if I need to take a break after I officially start the apprenticeship program?
Life happens, but we want you to be able to get the most out of this apprenticeship! The Standards and Rules and Regulations cover attendance throughout and Article VIII and IX speak directly to leave of absence as well as how you can re-enter the program. We want you to be successful, so please communicate to the Apprenticeship Coordinator and your sponsor employe if there’s a concern.
Do I need to be a registered student of the host college to become an apprentice?
To attend the related supplemental instruction (RSI), you’ll need to be a registered student but don’t let the registration process deter you. The Apprenticeship Coordinator will work with you and the host college, currently Shasta College, to make the registration process as smooth as possible.
How often do I need to attend class? Do I get paid to be there?
RSI courses will be scheduled in a way that will best fit the apprentice and employer schedules. The apprentice will not be compensated for time spent associated to related supplemental instruction (RSI) indicated in Attachment B, Article IV of the Standards.
I’m worried about buying supplies and paying for the courses needed. Is there financial help available to me?
Don’t worry! This registered apprenticeship program is free of charge to the registered apprentice. The supplies needed to be successful in the program will be provided and you won’t be charged the $46 per unit enrollment fee, or nonresident tuition, for any course taken as part of the approved DAS apprenticeship program per AB 1809. This does not, however, apply to the fees associated to the HELO pre-apprenticeship program offered through Shasta College.
Employers
I’m interested in becoming a sponsor employer! How do I get started?
Wonderful! We’d love to chat with you on becoming one of our sponsor employers. Please fill out the Employer Interest Form and we’ll be in touch! In the meantime, take a look at the “What’s Next” section to get an idea of the process.
I’m an employer located in Southern California but I’m interested in the CRAFT program. Can I participate?
Of course! The CRAFT apprenticeship serves the entire state of California. You do not need to be located in Northern California.
What if I need to do layoffs while I have an apprentice in the program?
We understand that this industry is not year-around and we are all operating in a challenging and unique time. We will work with you and the apprentice to find a solution that best serves both you and the apprentice.
What type of control do I have over the apprentice’s progression?
There is a probationary period in which the apprentice agreement may be cancelled if the apprentice isn’t able to meet program expectations. If an apprentice isn’t able to adhere to the Standards, Rules and Regulations, or the employee guidelines of the sponsor employer, they will not meet the advancement requirements outlined in Article IV of the Rules and Regulations to advance. That being said, we want to address any issues as soon as they arise so the UTC and Apprenticeship Coordinator can work with you and the apprentice to get them back on track.
Do I need to pay the apprentice to go to the related supplemental instruction courses?
The apprentice will not be compensated for time spent associated to related supplemental instruction (RSI) indicated in Attachment B, Article IV of the Standards. RSI courses will be scheduled in a way that will best fit the apprentice and employer schedules.
Get More Information or Apply Today
Whether you’d like to find out more information regarding the program or you’re sold and want to sign up to be an apprentice or sponsor employer, we have a form for that! We look forward to connecting with you on this opportunity!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Get More Information or Apply Today
Whether you’d like to find out more information regarding the program or you’re sold and want to sign up to be an apprentice or sponsor employer, we have a form for that! We look forward to connecting with you on this opportunity!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?
Get More Information or Apply Today
Whether you’d like to find out more information regarding the program or you’re sold and want to sign up to be an apprentice or sponsor employer, we have a form for that! We look forward to connecting with you on this opportunity!
Would you like information for apprentices or sponsor businesses?
Would you like to apply as an apprentice or sponsor business?