“Making a Difference” is Orange County Business Council’s feature series that brings the face and voice of OCBC
members to life by sharing how they’re making a difference in their communities.
April 2024
The term “formal training” can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s a college degree. For others, it’s technical education. The “formal training” might be different, but the goal is the same: gainful employment. In this issue of Making a Difference, we look at how three OCBC investors connect educators and employers to build a sustainable workforce for the nation’s sixth most populous county. From educators offering customized training programs for employers, to employers guest lecturing at schools, it’s a group effort from the classroom to the boardroom. With April being Community College month, read on to learn how some of the country’s brightest companies headquartered right here in Orange County, and other organizations, are partnering together in order to pour into our future workforce.
Advance Technology and Education Park (ATEP)
Q: How does your organization invest in Orange County and why is it important?
A: The South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) collaborates closely with industry partners to ensure that our educational programs at Irvine Valley College and Saddleback College align with the needs of the job market in Orange County. By staying informed about industry trends and demands, we tailor curriculum to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in high-quality jobs. Career counseling, internship opportunities, and job placement assistance also help students transition into the workforce. We believe in walking the walk, not just talking the talk through the development and investment of our Advance Technology and Education Park (ATEP). The development area consists of 61.4 acres within the 1,606 acre Tustin Legacy and houses Irvine Valley College’s School of Integrated Design, Engineering and Automation (IDEA) that serves as a catalyst for innovative career education opportunities at ATEP. Program offerings include design model making, drafting and engineering, electrical technology and electronic technology. ATEP is also the future home to Saddleback @ATEP, an approximate 50,000 square foot complex to house state of the art facilities for the culinary arts and advanced transportation programs.
Q: Creating talent pipelines is a two-way street. Employers, on the one hand, share their needs while educators build training that aligns with industry needs. Give examples of how your organization is collaborating with industry leaders.
A: SOCCCD engages in various forms of collaboration with industry leaders to create talent pipelines and ensure that our training meets industry needs. This includes advisory boards comprised of industry professionals who provide guidance on curriculum development, guest lectures and workshops featuring industry experts, internship programs, and apprenticeships. SOCCD Chancellor, Dr. Julianna M. Asperin Barnes, a statewide and regional leader on the topic of workforce development, helps with those efforts by her consistent membership on the Orange County Regional Consortium and the Orange County Business Council board of directors.
To further ensure that students are ready for the workforce of tomorrow, Irvine Valley College at ATEP hosted partners from Tustin and Irvine Unified for Manufacturing Day. More than 150 students from Beckman High School, Legacy Magnet Academy High School, Tustin High School, Foothill High School, and Woodbridge High School attended the event to gain a better understanding of the many aspects of manufacturing and broaden their perspectives on the pathways that can lead to a career in manufacturing. IVC faculty conducted hands-on demonstrations in Design Model Making & Rapid Prototyping, Drafting Technology, Electrical/Electronic Technology, and Engineering programs. The event also featured an industry and resource expo, providing opportunities for students to directly connect with manufacturing companies. Industry Resource Exhibitors included Edwards Lifesciences, Applied Medical, Universal Robot, Roland DGA, Advanced Technologies Consultants, BBraun USA, and Transworld Business Advisors.
Q: If I’m an employer looking to help students entering the workforce, what are some ways to get involved?
A: Employers can partner with SOCCCD in several ways, including participating on foundation boards, offering internships or apprenticeships, providing guest lectures or workshops, sponsoring student events or scholarships, and attending career fairs or networking events. By collaborating with us, employers can play a vital role in shaping the future workforce and ensuring that students are prepared for success in their industries.
Q: For industries facing employee shortages, how can employers and educators work together to feed career pipelines?
A: To address employee shortages in industries facing high demand, SOCCCD strives to collaborate on initiatives such as customized training programs, apprenticeships, and career pathways that provide students with the specific skills needed for in-demand jobs. By working together, we can help fill career pipelines and meet the workforce needs of the Orange County community.
Q: Who inspires you/your organization to do what you do?
A: SOCCCD leaders are inspired by the dedication and potential of our students, as well as the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and the broader community. We are also motivated by the support and collaboration of our industry partners, whose commitment to workforce development drives our efforts to prepare students for success in the workforce.
Q: What is your organization planning to do in the future in its continuing mission to build a workforce prepared to compete globally in the nation’s sixth most populous county?
A: In the future, SOCCCD plans to continue expanding its partnerships with industry leaders, developing innovative educational programs, and leveraging emerging technologies to build a workforce prepared to compete globally in Orange County. We also aim to enhance support services for students, increase access to education and training opportunities, and foster a culture of lifelong learning and career advancement.
Q: How is your organization making a difference in Orange County?
A: SOCCCD makes a difference in Orange County by providing high-quality education and training programs that empower individuals to pursue their career goals, contribute to economic growth, and strengthen the local workforce. Through our collaborative efforts with industry partners and community stakeholders, we are helping to build a skilled and diverse workforce that drives innovation and prosperity in the region. A recent economic impact report demonstrated that we contribute $1.9 billion in income and $7.1 billion in benefits to the local economy. We can honestly say that there are a billion ways we make a difference in Orange County.
Q: What is your organization’s favorite part about doing this kind of work in Orange County?
A: The favorite aspect of working in Orange County is the vibrant and dynamic community that we serve. We are inspired by the diversity of our students, faculty, and staff, as well as the rich tapestry of industries and opportunities that exist in the region. Additionally, we appreciate the strong support and engagement of local employers, organizations, and community members who share our commitment to educational excellence and workforce development, such as the Orange County Business Council.
FutureBUILT
Q: How is your organization ensuring quality jobs for students entering the workforce in Orange County?
A: FutureBUILT.org is a collaborative effort of Orange County community colleges that prepares professionals to fill jobs. To do this, we work closely with regional businesses that serve on advisory boards that help shape and guide curriculum and program development. Community colleges are unique in how closely we work with and in support of the regional business community.
These regional collaborations are one way we make sure our programs align with workforce needs. We also rely on labor market research conducted by the Orange County Center of Excellence (OC COE). OC COE is part of a statewide research network that partners with business and industry to deliver regional workforce research customized for community college decision-making and resource development.
For instance, the OC COE released a report in March 2023 titled, OC Resilient Jobs and Jobs for Recovery which provided a critical, up-to-date analysis of the regional post-COVID job market. It’s this kind of knowledge that we use to inform our curricular and program development to ensure that we are preparing students to meet regional workforce needs. The best part is, when we do our jobs well, it’s a win-win for students and businesses.
Q: Creating talent pipelines is a two-way street. Employers, on the one hand, share their needs while educators build training that aligns with industry needs. Give examples of how your organization is collaborating with industry leaders.
A: Orange County’s community colleges have long formed the cornerstone of workforce education and training in the region—but we couldn’t do it without the hundreds of industry partnerships that help us assess workforce needs, and inform our training and curriculum. In addition to serving on advisory boards, employers are invited to participate in regional conferences and industry events, set up shop at our career and job fairs, and contact us directly to become more involved in shaping the future of their industry in Orange County. Partnerships between Orange County community colleges and employers, and how the colleges work together to strengthen curriculum include industries such as automotive training, internships, and customized on-site professional development training for employers to offer their employees.
Q: If I’m an employer looking to help students entering the workforce, what are some ways to get involved?
A: The best way to help students enter the workforce is to hire them! Other ways to engage include connecting with community college programs that serve your industry, serving on advisory boards, becoming a mentor to students, creating internships and apprenticeship opportunities, speaking on campus to classes, giving company tours, donating equipment, or even helping conduct mock interviews.
FutureBUILT.org offers a concierge service on its site. The site serves prospective students by helping them to connect with the programs and people they need in order to succeed. The site also serves employers that want to learn more.
Q: For industries facing employee shortages, how can employers and educators work together to feed career pipelines?
A: The key is communication. Employers have to engage and colleges have to respond. The good news is that community colleges are actually very good at responding to employer needs. Our programs are always looking for ways to keep our curriculum current so that our students enter the workforce ready to succeed.
The best way for an employer to address their own workforce shortage is to connect with a regional program that serves their industry. This helps everyone. Not only does this put the business in contact with qualified professionals, but it also makes sure the college program remains aligned with current workforce trends. Collaborating with your local community college is also one way to prevent workforce shortages.
Q: Who inspires you/your organization to do what you do?
A: Students. But, when we say students, we’re talking about single parents, mid-career professionals, veterans, foster-youth, first-generation students, and all those adults who are looking for a way to build a better future. Community college students come from all walks of life which is why their successes are so inspiring. There is nothing more gratifying than watching a student who never dreamed of attending college, graduate with pride, with confidence, and with a brighter future.
Q: What is your organization planning to do in the future in its continuing mission to build a workforce prepared to compete globally in the nation’s sixth most populous county?
A: As part of FutureBUILT.org, the Orange County Regional Consortium (OCRC) will continue to work with key regional organizations such as workforce development boards, economic development organizations, nonprofits, and employer groups to leverage resources, collaborate, and support local students and businesses. Initiatives include:
- Ongoing research by the COE into labor market needs and growth opportunities
- Identifying future careers and ready-jobs to support economic growth
- OC COE research and information sharing to support future and resilient jobs and careers.
Q: How is your organization making a difference in Orange County?
A: We are making a difference by getting students into viable careers, working with employers to ensure their talent needs are met, and by meeting the various needs of our local community.
The OCRC invites the collaboration of business, non-profits, labor, government agencies and industry leaders in order to improve the decision-making and responsiveness of our educational institutions to reflect changing market and technological trends.
Q: What is your organization’s favorite part about doing this kind of work in Orange County?
A: Seeing the impact that we are making in the community by making Orange County a place where people and communities can prosper.
OC Pathways
Q: How is your organization ensuring quality jobs for students entering the workforce in Orange County?
A: OC Pathways is a countywide consortium that’s led by the Orange County Department of Education to provide career support, resources and guidance for students from elementary school through high school and community college, leading into employment. The goal is to bolster Orange County’s workforce and create quality jobs for our students by collaborating with regional employers, industry leaders and workforce development boards, who are helping us align educational programs with current and future job market demands. We are also working together to integrate work-based learning experiences, like internships and apprenticeships, that provide real-world skills and connections for those in high school and college. In addition, OC Pathways is emphasizing the development of industry-recognized credentials and continuous curriculum updates to reflect evolving industry standards, ensuring students are well prepared for high-wage, high-demand careers in the region.
Q: Creating talent pipelines is a two-way street. Employers, on the one hand, share their needs while educators build training that aligns with industry needs. Give examples of how your organization is collaborating with industry leaders.
A: We are actively collaborating with industry leaders to align our educational programs with real-world job needs. This is made possible through advisory boards with professionals from critical sectors like healthcare and technology, who guide us on current and future skills requirements. We also co-develop curriculum to integrate real-world problem-solving into our CTE programs and establish work-based learning opportunities, including internships and apprenticeship programs with places like SpyderLab and CyberForward. Other examples include professional development for educators, career exploration events and even collaborative research projects.
Q: If I’m an employer looking to help students entering the workforce, what are some ways to get involved?
A: There are many impactful ways for employers to engage with us in building our future workforce. Offering internships and apprenticeships provides invaluable hands-on experiences to prepare students for the job market. Participating in career fairs, networking events and workshops are some other ways to connect with and guide future professionals. Additionally, hosting job shadowing days, engaging in mentorship programs and offering scholarships can profoundly influence a student’s career trajectory. We highly encourage business and industry partners to join our work-based learning hub to connect with us and learn more.
Q: For industries facing employee shortages, how can employers and educators work together to feed career pipelines?
A: It really comes down to working together to co-develop innovative educational programs that are tailored to specific industry needs while integrating emerging technologies like AI. Areas we’re pursuing include immersive training experiences through virtual reality and augmented reality, expanding micro-credentialing to better showcase specific skills, and providing a wider array of work-based learning opportunities like internships and co-ops. By leveraging AI, we also believe we can create more personalized learning pathways that align closely with both student interests and the evolving demands of the workforce. Growing cross-sector partnerships is vital, offering students a holistic view of future careers.
Q: Who inspires you/your organization to do what you do?
A: At OC Pathways, our inspiration comes from the students we serve. Witnessing their journeys of discovery, growth and success fuels our dedication to create impactful educational and career opportunities. At the same time, Dr. Ramon Miramontes and Dr. Sonia Llamas of the Orange County Department of Education set a powerful example for our team, with their deep commitment to student potential and achievement. Their dedication is mirrored by every team member, who brings diverse experiences from education and industry to enrich our programs and tailor them to the ever-changing needs of our students. Their stories of resilience and ambition remind us daily of the transformative power of education and mentorship. It’s this shared vision of unlocking every student’s potential that drives us to innovate and break down barriers in education and workforce development.
Q: What is your organization planning to do in the future in its continuing mission to build a workforce prepared to compete globally in the nation’s sixth most populous county?
A: OC Pathways is gearing up for the future with multiple strategies to keep Orange County at the forefront of the global workforce. We’re integrating AI and machine learning across our programs, ensuring students are not only proficient in these technologies but can apply them across industries. Expanding VR and AR learning experiences is another priority, allowing students to practice skills in virtual environments from healthcare to engineering. We’re also developing a digital credentialing system to highlight students’ skills, and launching industry-driven innovation hubs for real-world project collaboration. Additionally, we plan to use predictive analytics to guide students toward in-demand career paths and emphasize global competencies for a worldwide marketplace. Strengthening ties between educators and employers will keep our curriculum relevant, and promoting entrepreneurship among students will drive innovation. Through these initiatives, OC Pathways aims to empower students for success in a dynamic, global economy.
Q: How is your organization making a difference in Orange County?
A: OC Pathways is transforming lives while bridging skills gaps in critical sectors, like cybersecurity and digital print manufacturing. This is leading to measurable improvements in employment rates and job readiness for students leaving secondary and post-secondary education programs. We’re also integrating advanced technologies like AI, virtual reality and augmented reality into our programs, preparing students for tomorrow’s workforce and positioning Orange County as a workforce development leader.
Success stories from alumni entering high-demand careers really highlight the transformative power of our programs, emphasizing work-based learning’s role in shaping futures. Through partnerships with local industries and educational institutions, we’ve initiated youth apprenticeships and filled essential roles in sectors with labor shortages, showcasing our collaborative impact on workforce development.
Our commitment also extends to advancing educational and employment equity, ensuring underserved communities gain access to these valuable opportunities. By aligning education with regional economic needs, OC Pathways not only supports Orange County’s economic vitality but also attracts businesses. All of these pieces are interconnected.
Q: What is your organization’s favorite part about doing this kind of work in Orange County?
A: In Orange County, we’re well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of both students and the workforce. But what we value most at OC Pathways is seeing our students’ transformation and growth as they navigate our programs, reaching their full potential.
Our aim really goes beyond job preparation. We’re committed to instilling lifelong learning skills and adaptability in our students while inspiring innovation, enhancing problem-solving and encouraging community contributions. Building community is incredibly rewarding. Doing this work, here in Orange County, just brings a profound sense of purpose — knowing that every effort we make today helps shape a brighter, more equitable and innovative future for all.
