LA-Tech.org Appoints Luis Barrera Castañón as Director of Apprenticeships in Partnership with BuildWithin
Los Angeles, CA –October 28, 2025 – LA-Tech.org is excited to announce the appointment of Luis Barrera Castañón as Director of Apprenticeships, as part of a strategic partnership with BuildWithin to create tech apprenticeships and internships for underserved populations across Los Angeles. This initiative aligns with LA-Tech.org's mission to bridge the gap between tech and community by increasing economic opportunity for LA's low-income students and underrepresented communities.
Luis brings nearly two decades of experience scaling innovative workforce development and education programs across Los Angeles County. Throughout his career, he has served as a vital connector between systems—bridging community colleges, nonprofits, employers, and philanthropy to advance inclusive economic opportunity. Currently serving as a Trustee for the Santa Monica Community College District, Luis is also the founder of LBC+ Consulting & Creative and co-founder of Sequents.ai. His distinguished career includes leadership positions with Goodwill Southern California, L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce, UnidosUS (formerly National Council of La Raza), and Para Los Niños.
"We are thrilled to welcome Luis to our team," said Sean Arian, Executive Director of LA-Tech.org. "His deep expertise in workforce development and proven track record of building partnerships across sectors make him uniquely qualified to lead our apprenticeship initiatives. Luis shares our commitment to investing in local talent and creating meaningful pathways into tech for LA's underrepresented communities."
Luis holds an associate degree from Santa Monica College, a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley, a Master of Public Administration, and an Educational Doctorate from California State University, Northridge. "I'm honored to join LA-Tech.org and BuildWithin at this pivotal moment," said Barrera Castañón. "Apprenticeships represent a powerful pathway to economic mobility, and I look forward to working with our partners to invest in local talent and ensure a diverse and vibrant future for LA's growing tech sector."