Building a Strong Climate Workforce
California has a pressing need for skilled professionals who can navigate the many economic and physical transformations necessary to decarbonize our economy and manage forest, wildland, and agricultural systems responsively. FoundationCCC’s Center for Climate Futures supports the development of a climate-resilient workforce through specialized training programs, educational resources, and industry partnerships with local colleges. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills for climate-related careers, we’re helping progress towards state targets while helping learners find good jobs with a sense of purpose.
California Resilient Careers in Forestry
Developing resilient careers in forestry for Californians.The emerging forestry and fire safety sector has the potential to grow into a $39 billion industry while protecting communities, landscapes and natural carbon stores in forests, yet there are shortages of thousands of workers in relevant well-paying jobs with benefits. To address this need, the Foundation was awarded a $21.5 million grant by the US Economic Development Administration as part of its Good Jobs Challenge to support the “California Resilient Careers in Forestry” project. This four-year project to scale a system for training and placing qualified workers into high-quality jobs in the forestry and fire safety sector will help expand the industry’s talent pool and diversify the field.
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Smog Check Referee Program
Improving air quality statewide.The Smog Check Referee program, managed by FoundationCCC in partnership with the Bureau of Automotive Repair, was created to improve the smog check process and help reduce air pollution for all Californians. Referee centers are operated on local community college campuses and perform emissions inspections and other specialized testing that industry is not authorized to perform. Referee facilities provide a wide array of resources for California motorists associated with smog checks and repairs.
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Smog Check Referee Student Technician Training
Providing real-world training for automotive students.Developed in partnership with the Bureau of Automotive Repairs, the Student Technician Training Program (STTP) is building the future workforce of smog technicians. The STTP supplements the required courses and conventional automotive technician training students receive at California Community Colleges, and provides additional education in the areas of safety, communication, and administration. Combined with the core skills training, this additional support ensures students learn the essential skills necessary to become a gainfully employed, high-performing, professional technician in today’s automotive test and repair industry.
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Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Workforce Development
Building skilled workforce for California’s clean transportation future.FoundationCCC, in collaboration with the California Air Resources Board, invites California community colleges to apply for funding to expand and enhance ZEV-related education and training programs. This initiative supports California’s goal of transitioning to a zero-emission vehicle economy by 2035 and focuses on increasing opportunities in disadvantaged communities, fostering a skilled workforce to meet the demands of emerging ZEV technologies.
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