SALINAS, Calif.- Even though Salinas lost one major green business this week when Green Vehicles failed to get enough investors to match its funding, Hartnell College is stepping up its training for green jobs.
The accelerated short-term program is for sustainable ag tech or green construction jobs.
Hartnell College, in partnership with the Monterey County One-Stop Career Centers and area employers, is offering the 16-month certificate programs in sustainable ag tech and green construction for youths 16 to 24 years old at the Center for Advanced Technology at Hartnell.
The program runs from August 1, 2011 to December 15, 2012, and includes coursework and hands-on work experience. Classes are held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon at the Alisal Campus, 1752 East Alisal Street, Salinas.
Textbooks, tutoring, career and academic counseling, and job placement assistance is included. Students may be eligible for $2000 scholarships to support their studies.
The program teaches fundamental principles and technical skills in both construction and agriculture industrial mechanics, as well as English and technical math. After two semesters of intensive introductory courses, students will choose whether to focus on agriculture technology or construction for their summer and fall 2012 studies. At program completion, participants will receive a state-recognized college certificate in their chosen area.
Students may elect to earn additional industry licenses in areas such as solar panel installation, green plumbing, and green building principles.
"Special programs such as this provide wonderful opportunities for young people to make a difference in their own lives, as well as in the future of the Salinas Valley and its communities," explained Dr. Zahi K. Atallah, Dean of Advanced Technology. "We know from experience that a program of this sort can not only build technical skills and improve career readiness, but also foster leadership and problem-solving. We'll need all of those qualities for our 21st century workforce."
This project is supported by a Youth Career Technical Education grant of $499,950, from the California Community College Chancellor's Office and federal Workforce Investment Act funds. Participants must be citizens or legal residents of the US to participate.
Information sessions and registration are available by contacting Violeta Mendoza Wenger at 831-770-6118, or email vwenger@hartnell.edu.
