The $3 million investment from the U.S. Economic Development Administration into the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) for the construction of a state-of-the-art job training center marks a significant boost to the local economy. The center, set to open by 2028, will be located near the former Norton Air Force Base and aims to provide essential skills and employment opportunities to unemployed adults, at-risk youth, and other vulnerable populations, including formerly incarcerated individuals.
During the ceremonial groundbreaking event, SBCCD Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez described the future center as an „oasis of opportunity,“ emphasizing its role in bridging the gap between education and employment. The 17,620-square-foot facility will offer hands-on, accelerated, industry-recognized training in both indoor and outdoor training areas.
Notable figures such as U.S. Department of Commerce Assistant Secretary Alejandra Castillo, Congressman Pete Aguilar, Assemblymember Eloise Gomez Reyes, Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran, and San Bernardino City Councilmember Damon Alexander attended the event, showing their support for the initiative.
The job training center will offer a diverse range of programs tailored to equip participants with the skills needed to succeed in various industries. Some key programs include:
– Probation Forklift Training: A specialized course for individuals under 25 who are at-risk or involved in the juvenile justice system, focusing on safety and efficiency in forklift operations.
– Building Industry Association (BIA) Construction Training: Providing foundational knowledge and practical skills for those looking to enter or advance in the construction industry, with an emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance.
– Utility Line Clearance Arborist Training: Training individuals for careers in tree maintenance and safety around power lines, offering entry-level grounds jobs.
– Clothes Closet: A community service initiative providing free clothing to individuals and families facing economic hardships, ensuring access to appropriate attire for professional and casual occasions.
– Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3): An Apprenticeship Readiness Program offering industry certifications such as Construction OSHA-10 and First Aid/CPR/AED, targeting women, youth, formerly incarcerated individuals, and minorities.
– Employment Training Panel (ETP): Providing upskilling and reskilling training for California workers, covering topics like Microsoft Excel, leadership, conflict resolution, OSHA safety, and customer service.
– California Manufacturers Technology Consulting (CMTC): Offering outreach and training for small and medium-sized manufacturers and distribution companies.
– Back 2 Work: Supporting marginalized populations, including veterans, individuals impacted by the justice system, and underrepresented women in the workforce.
– California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation – Caltrans: Providing employment skills to individuals under parole supervision, aiming to reduce recidivism through litter clean-up projects on California highways.
The community impact of the new job training center was highlighted by Congressman Pete Aguilar, who expressed his pride in contributing to the project’s realization. U.S. Department of Commerce Assistant Secretary Alejandra Castillo emphasized the importance of inclusive economic growth, stressing the need to uplift disadvantaged communities for the nation’s overall competitiveness and security.
SBCCD Trustee Frank Reyes added a touch of humor to the event, joking about the district’s success in securing federal grants and teasing Rep. Aguilar about future grant requests. The collaborative efforts of local, regional, and national stakeholders in creating economic opportunities and fostering a resilient community were evident in the development of the job training center.
Overall, the investment in the job training center signifies a commitment to empowering individuals with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in various industries, ultimately contributing to the growth and prosperity of the local economy.