Kern and Santa Clarita Community Colleges Secure $1.7M in Workforce Training Funds

In a recent meeting of the Employment Training Panel (ETP) held on August 25, 2025, significant funding approvals were made to support workforce training initiatives across California. The panel unanimously approved contracts that aim to enhance job skills and economic mobility for residents, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by local industries.

One of the key decisions was the approval of a contract worth $839,346 for the Kern Community College District. This funding is intended to bolster training programs that will benefit the local workforce, ensuring that residents have access to essential skills needed in today’s job market. The panel members expressed their support, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in fostering community development.

Another notable approval was granted to the Santa Clarita Community College District, which received approximately $849,089 to train around 850 workers. This contract is particularly significant as it addresses the needs of industries in North Los Angeles County, including aerospace and defense sectors. The college's representatives emphasized the critical role of this funding in helping local businesses recover from the impacts of recent wildfires and in facilitating the upskilling of workers in advanced technologies.

Additionally, Dumont Printing Inc. received approval for an amendment to include three out-of-state training vendors. This decision was made to provide specialized training that is not available within California. The company’s president noted the challenges of finding qualified trainers locally, underscoring the necessity of this amendment to maintain competitive standards in the printing industry.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism as panel members recognized the vital role these funding approvals play in enhancing workforce capabilities and supporting local economies. As California continues to navigate economic challenges, the ETP's commitment to workforce training remains a cornerstone of community resilience and growth.