FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — The Accelerated Workforce Program helps train, certify and prepare students for new careers.
A new partnership in Fresno County allows students to receive free training.
Raul Salazar has been practicing welding since he was 14 years old.
He says he learned from his father, who was an expert, but his father wasn’t qualified.
“He said to me, ‘The only way you’re going to be a better welder than me is to get certified, because until then you can’t catch up,'” Salazar said.
So he started researching certification programs and found that most private organizations cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Even though I was working full time, cost was a barrier to achieving my goals.
He was then hired by the State Center Community College District, which offers a free welding program in partnership with the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation.
“It’s hard to come up with that money, so I’m very grateful that I can come here for free and get the same qualifications as people who come from private schools,” Salazar said.
EDC received a $23 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce through the Good Jobs Challenge.
The funding is designed to help communities develop the skills their residents need to meet industry demands.
Fresno EDC President and CEO Will Oliver said they are especially looking for students from underserved communities who may not have this opportunity without additional support. Masu.
“Our goal is to prepare and place 2,500 people in Fresno, Madera, Tulare and Kings Counties for high-demand jobs,” Oliver said.
EDC offers wraparound services to ensure students also have transportation and childcare needs covered.
SCCCD offers a 16-week welding course at Fresno City College’s West Fresno Center.
This program helps train and certify students.
We also connect with employers who need employees.
“We partner with a number of local businesses looking to hire welders,” said Daniel Griffith, SCCCD Training Institute Senior Program Specialist.
Multiple programs are available to help students achieve their goals, including truck driver, human resources assistant, administrative assistant, and medical office specialist.
“Our hope is that through worker education we can change their lives,” Griffiths said.
Students like Salazar are already experiencing a different life for themselves. There are some places where he is in charge.
“Long term, basically what I want to do is open my own store,” Salazar said.
“That’s my ultimate goal: within a few years, to open my own shop repairing all kinds of equipment,” Salazar said.
If you would like to learn more about the welding program and other opportunities offered through this grant, click here for more information.
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