Program Philosophy
Many people have the drive and ability to succeed in a skilled trade career but lack access to formal training and employer connections. ApartmentWorks was created to remove that barrier — giving motivated adults free, hands-on technical training and direct introductions to hiring partners in the apartment industry, opening a door to a stable, long-term career in a profession where skilled workers are in high demand.
Started in 2006
Visit program website
Adults seeking hands-on trade careers in apartment maintenance; low-income job seekers
Classes are held Monday through Friday in the evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Classes held online via Zoom and in-person in Los Angeles County.
CAMT (Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician) certification prep, trade skills, employer interviews guaranteed upon graduation
Cost & Outcomes
This program is completely free for all participants. No tuition, no fees, no hidden costs. The required background check is paid for by the program.
Who This Program is Built For
This program was specifically designed with these communities in mind. If you see yourself, you belong here.
What Sets This Program Apart
Zero-cost training funded entirely by employer partners and foundations
Preparation for the nationally recognized CAMT (Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician) exam
Guaranteed interviews with employer partners upon successful completion
Evening schedule (5–9 PM) allows participants to work or manage obligations during the day
Career counseling and guidance provided after job placement
Technology (e.g., Chromebook) provided to students who need it for online training
Day in the Life
- Classes Monday through Friday in the evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Instructor-led technical skills training (plumbing, electrical, drywall, appliance repair)
- Career-building workshops (resume writing, interview prep, customer service)
- Online sessions via Zoom or in-person at a Los Angeles County location
- Cohort-based learning with peer support
Industry-experienced instructors with backgrounds in apartment maintenance, trade skills, and career workforce development.
Soft and technical skills you'll gain by program completion.
CAMT (Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician) certification is optional but encouraged — exam prep is included in the program
Highs & Lows
Maintaining perfect attendance while balancing work and personal obligations; evening schedule can be demanding for those with families or long commutes.
Hands-on trade training with real tools; direct access to hiring employers; the sense of accomplishment from earning the CAMT credential and landing a full-time job.
Entry-level CAMT roles lead to senior maintenance tech, lead maintenance supervisor, or facilities manager positions within 5–10 years. Some graduates advance to union apprenticeships in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical trades.
Employment Support
Guaranteed employer interviews upon graduation
Direct connections to employer partner network (apartment management companies)
Career coaching and job placement assistance
Career counseling and guidance after job placement
Hear From the Program
ApartmentWorks teaches you all that' — went on to complete a 5-year HVAC apprenticeship with UA Local 250.
How It Works
Submit online application at jvsapartmentworks.org/application/
Receive phone call from ApartmentWorks recruitment team
Screening and eligibility review
Criminal background check (paid by JVS SoCal); acceptance conditioned upon passing the background check
Enrollment into next available cohort
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.Free — program is paid for by employer partners and funders.
No — training is free but unpaid.
Monday through Friday in the evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for 8 weeks.
Not guaranteed, but we have a 80%+ placement rate; and you're guaranteed an interview with an employer when you complete the program.
No, but 6 months of work history preferred. Prior experience cleaning, maintaining or servicing homes/businesses is a plus.