California Construction Trades Foundation (CCTF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing California's next generation of licensed contractors and construction small-business owners.
We provide FREE, bilingual English and Spanish contractor licensing education, business training, technical assistance, and a practical pathway that helps skilled tradespeople move from knowing the trade to building a compliant, sustainable construction business.
LA Olympics Construction Demand
Billions in construction projects are being planned across Southern California right now. Licensed contractors who are ready will win those contracts.
Contractors CSLB Regulates
California has the largest construction licensing system in the country — and thousands of skilled workers who operate without the license they need. We change that.
2023 Women in Construction Bill
California passed legislation supporting women in construction trades in 2023. CCTF is the first bilingual program to operationalize that commitment in Southern California.
We don't just teach - we transform. CCTF helps skilled tradespeople, Latino workers, women, veterans, and underserved Californians move from employee to licensed contractor, build compliant businesses, and prepare to pursue contracting opportunities.
Our mission is to create pathways to economic self-sufficiency through contractor licensing, entrepreneurship, business education, technical assistance, and access to opportunity.
Many skilled tradespeople know how to perform the work, but do not have a clear roadmap for licensing, compliance, business ownership, financial systems, public works, procurement, and growth. CCTF exists to close that gap.
We believe the people with the skills to build California should also have a pathway to own the companies building California.
Yesenia Rivera is a visionary leader in the construction industry, dedicated to empowering skilled tradespeople. With years of experience navigating the complexities of construction licensing and business development, she recognized the systemic barriers that prevent many talented workers from becoming business owners.
Through the California Construction Trades Foundation (CCTF), Yesenia has established a comprehensive pathway that provides bilingual education, technical assistance, and mentorship. Her mission is to close the gap between trade skills and business acumen, particularly for underserved communities, Latinos, women, and veterans in California.
Under her leadership, CCTF is transforming the landscape of the California construction industry, ensuring that those who physically build the state also have the opportunity to own the companies driving its growth.
Every student tracked through our full pipeline using AI automation with transparent reporting to donors and partners.
CSLB prequalification review & bilingual intake
9 sessions covering all business fundamentals
Certificate issued + CSLB exam blueprint provided
Application support through license approval
Business hub: capabilities statement + certifications
Government contract coaching & prevailing wage projects
Free, hands-on contractor entrepreneurship programs designed specifically for California tradespeople.
A free, hands-on program covering CSLB licensing, business development, compliance, estimating, safety, and government contract readiness.
El mismo programa completo enseñado en español para contratistas, cubriendo licencia CSLB, formación de negocio, nómina, y licitaciones.
Building Businesses. Creating Leaders. A pathway for women who want more than employment in the trades, offering training in English and Spanish.
CCTF's Women in Construction initiative creates a pathway for women who want more than employment in the trades. We help women develop the knowledge and resources needed to become licensed contractors, entrepreneurs, employers, and construction business leaders.
We train women to own and operate licensed construction businesses not just enter the workforce.
Training is available in English and Spanish, helping remove language and information barriers.
DBE, SBE, and DVBE certifications plus hands-on coaching to win public sector contracts.
Un programa gratuito diseñado para trabajadores y emprendedores de la construcción que desean convertir su experiencia en un negocio formal, preparado y competitivo. No solamente enseñamos el oficio, te ayudamos a construir el negocio detrás del oficio. Aprende sobre Licencia CSLB, Formación de Negocio, Cal/OSHA, Seguros, Nómina y más.
Regístrate Gratis →A comprehensive step-by-step program to build your construction business.
Develop the entrepreneurial mindset necessary to transition from a worker to a business owner. Learn how to draft a solid business blueprint, set goals, and plan for sustainable growth.
Understand the California State License Board (CSLB) application process, exam preparation, and strict OSHA safety compliance required on all job sites.
Learn the essentials of construction accounting, managing payroll, tracking job costs, and maintaining accurate financial records to ensure profitability.
Discover how to build a strong brand identity, market your contracting services effectively, and leverage digital tools to attract and retain clients.
Navigate the complex legal landscape of workers' compensation in California. Learn your responsibilities as an employer to protect your crew and your business.
Unlock the potential of public works. Learn how to find, prepare for, and bid on lucrative government and municipal construction contracts.
Get a clear understanding of general liability, bonding, and how to prepare for and pass insurance audits without costly surprises.
Master the crucial skills of construction mathematics and accurate job estimation. Learn how to price your jobs competitively while ensuring a healthy profit margin.
Celebrate your completion of the program. Receive your certification and step forward as a fully prepared, business-ready contractor.
Join our organization and unlock expert support, funding, networking, and tailored resources to grow, launch, or elevate your business.
Education alone is not enough. CCTF provides practical technical assistance to help you navigate the real steps involved in becoming business-ready.
Application support and guidance.
Guidance on structuring your business properly.
Registration and prevailing wage assistance.
Capability statement prep and government procurement education.
Stay informed about new cohorts, workshops, and opportunities.
Whether you're ready to enroll, want to partner with us, or are interested in supporting our mission — we'd love to hear from you.
