In an effort to empower local youth and create career pathways, a joint initiative is underway to develop a Youth Workforce Pipeline in Lompoc.
The project’s goal is to provide Lompoc youth with the tools, training and resources they need to thrive in today’s workforce, ultimately building a bridge from education to employment.
The initiative is being spearheaded by Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann, and key community partners, including the Lompoc Teen Center, Goodwill Mission Services’ Youth Workforce Development Programs, and Partners in Education (Santa Barbara County Education Office).
The collaboration aims to offer work-based learning opportunities, mentorship, and job training that align with the needs of local industries, ensuring students are prepared for in-demand careers.
On a recent episode of KCBX’s Central Coast Voices podcast, Victor Alejandro Cortes of Lompoc Teen Center, Celest Mendoza of Goodwill Mission Services, and Hartmann discussed the importance of youth workforce development in Lompoc.
The episode highlights the impact of the project and the opportunities it creates for young people across the community.
Hear the full podcast at https://www.kcbx.org/podcast/central-coast-voices/2024-09-25/developing-lompocs-youth-workforce.
The project has roots in the All About YOUth initiative, an annual event hosted by the city of Lompoc Public Library, which brings together local organizations, students, and community leaders to discuss their concerns and goals for equitable economic opportunities in Lompoc.
For more on the event, visit https://www.cityoflompoc.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/6263/.
For more on the Youth Workforce Pipeline project or to get involved, email Cortes at victor@lompocteencenter.org
The Lompoc Teen Center provides a safe space for at-risk teens (in 7th-12th grades). Learn more at lompocteencenter.org.
Goodwill Mission Services offers no-cost programs designed to help youth gain the skills and training they need to build a successful future. Learn more at https://gwvsb.org/youth-services.