Groundbreaking for $3 million vocational training center to transform San Bernardino and empower vulnerable populations

The San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) was pleased to receive a $3 million investment from the U.S. Economic Development Administration to build a state-of-the-art career training center, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Scheduled to open in 2028, the center will be located at 114 S. Del Rosa Dr. near the former Norton Air Force Base. Its goal is to provide critical skills and employment opportunities to unemployed adults, at-risk youth and other vulnerable populations, including former inmates.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, SBCCD Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez hailed the future center as an “oasis of opportunity,” emphasizing its role in bridging the gap between education and employment by providing hands-on, accelerated and industry-recognized training in a 16,000-square-foot facility with indoor and outdoor training areas.

“We're all in this together,” Rodriguez said. “Industry, labor, education, government, nonprofits, educators, you name it. We're super excited about this. Thank you to everyone who's part of this work.”

The event was attended by notable figures including Alejandra Castillo, U.S. Department of Commerce Assistant Secretary for Commerce Pete Aguilar, Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes, Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran and San Bernardino City Councilman Damon Alexander.

Diverse program offering

The Vocational Training Center offers a range of programs designed to provide participants with the skills they need to succeed in a variety of industries. Key programs include:

• Forklift training on probation: A 36-hour specialized course for individuals under 25 who are at risk or involved in the juvenile justice system. The program focuses on safety and efficiency in forklift operations.
• Building Industry Association (BIA) construction training: This 144-hour program provides essential knowledge and practical skills for anyone looking to enter or advance in the construction industry. The curriculum emphasizes safety and regulatory compliance.
• Training for tree care workers on keeping utility lines clear: A five-week, 200-hour program that prepares individuals for careers in tree care and power line safety and provides entry-level field jobs.
• Wardrobe: A nonprofit initiative that provides free clothing to individuals and families experiencing economic hardship. The program ensures access to clean, appropriate clothing for work and personal occasions.
• Core curriculum for multiple crafts (MC3): A pre-employment training program that offers industry certifications such as Construction OSHA-10 and First Aid/CPR/AED. It targets women, youth, ex-convicts and minorities and prepares them for lucrative careers in construction within the construction unions.
• Employment Training Panel (ETP): A state-funded initiative that provides continuing education and reskilling courses for workers in California. SBCCD offers both customized single-employer training and multi-employer sessions, covering topics such as Microsoft Excel, leadership, conflict resolution, OSHA safety, and customer service.
• Technology Consulting for California Manufacturers (CMTC): This program provides education and training opportunities for small and medium-sized manufacturers and distributors with the help of a MEP grant from the federal government.
• Back to work: In partnership with the Butte County Office of Education, this program supports marginalized populations, including veterans, individuals impacted by the justice system, and working women who are underrepresented.
• California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation – Caltrans: This collaboration teaches job skills to people under probation supervision and aims to reduce recidivism. Participants work on projects to clean up trash on California's highways.

Impact on the community

Congressman Pete Aguilar, a key proponent of the center, expressed his pride in helping to make the project a reality. “As someone who grew up in these communities, it is a great honor to be able to help secure investments that will help our region grow and prosper,” said Aguilar. “This new career training facility will provide anyone interested in pursuing a career with the skills to succeed and make a difference in our community.”

Alejandra Castillo, assistant secretary at the U.S. Department of Commerce, echoed Aguilar's sentiments, stressing the importance of inclusive economic growth. “We know that if we fail our rural areas and our most disadvantaged communities, if we fail communities of color, then our country, OUR country, will not be able to fire up the engines we need to remain competitive and protect our national security,” Castillo said.

SBCCD Trustee Frank Reyes added a light-hearted note, joking about the district's success in securing federal grants. “I don't want to compare us to other colleges, but we're the best. We've secured more grants at the federal level than many others,” Reyes said. He also teased Rep. Aguilar about bringing new grant applications to his office Monday morning.

The new vocational training center is a testament to the collaborative efforts of local, regional and national stakeholders committed to creating economic opportunities and fostering a resilient community.