SuperAdobe Level 4 Apprenticeship
NEW Three Month Hybrid Apprenticeship Program
The NEW Three month hybrid CalEarth apprenticeship program offers a cohesive, in-depth, and transformative experience for the full integration of earth arts and architecture.
The program includes two weeks of remote instruction through live zoom lectures with CalEarth instructors and alumni builders from around the world, plus a nine week hands-on residential practicum in Hesperia, CA at the CalEarth headquarters involving substantial SuperAdobe bag techniques and applications and a complete dome build from foundation to close as well as plasters and finishes.
Program Philosophy
Providing opportunities for exploration and education both conceptually and at the granular level, our intention is to educate and elevate the student to work in harmony with the natural environment. This is done through designing, developing, and building within the conscious, sustainable and regenerative paradigm of earth architecture.
Created and refined through the works of Nader Khalili and thousands of students over many decades. The apprenticeship program will empower the individual to unlock their natural potential and the tools to manifest their vision by using the earth under their feet.
~ Earth Turns to gold in the hands of the wise~ Rumi
Program Overview
Weeks 1-2 (Remote)
Dome Theory
Elements of Design
Project Development and Management
During the two weeks leading up to your arrival at CalEarth you will take the full online Dome Course. Additionally, you will have Zoom meetings with CalEarth instructors and alumni. During this time you should develop an understanding of how to build a basic dome, in addition to project management and design essentials.
Weeks 5-8 (On Campus)
Level 3 Workshop at CalEarth
Hands-on Advanced Dome building
Your time on campus begins with a Level 3 hands-on Superadobe workshop. Joining with other workshop participants you will build a simple emergency shelter dome, get an introduction to plastering, design and the unique beauty and challenges of our 7 acre campus in the Mojave Desert. After the workshop you will build a larger more complex dome with an apse and different fenestration approaches and water management strategies
Weeks 9-11 (On Campus)
Hands-on stabilized and natural plasters
Advanced Design
Final ProjectsAfter the hands-on education at CalEarth you will take a deeper dive into design and related topics. You will receive ongoing guidance from CalEarth team members as you put together your final projects, bringing together what you’ve learned about project management, build site analysis, budget, schedule, design, rendering, etc.. The program ends with you presenting your final project to your peers and CalEarth team members.
Tuition & Deadlines
Applications accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are full
Program Start: September 2, 2025
Program End: November 16, 2025
On Campus Residential:
Sept 18, 2025- November 16, 2025
Total Program Cost:
$7000 (includes housing)
$6000 (without housing)
50% Due upon acceptance
50% Due July 1, 2025
Deposit non-refundable upon acceptance
Some partial scholarships available
in the amounts of: $500-$2500
Cal-Earth’s full immersion apprenticeship program has been one of the best investments of my time. Learning the versatility of superadobe from top to bottom thoroughly really gave me the confidence that I can build and that it is possible.
Apprentice
Attending the Cal-Earth Apprenticeship program was one of the best decisions I've ever made in life. Not only did it provide me with the opportunity to learn, but I was able to connect with other like minded individuals wanting to make a difference. I am so grateful for this new skill set and how this experience has encouraged me make steps towards the life I really want to be living!
Caitlin Deane, Apprentice
