[photo credit:: Gov. Gavin Newsom]Gov. Gavin Newsom visited Pasadena City College Friday to highlight a workforce training program aimed at preparing skilled trade workers to help speed Los Angeles’ recovery from recent wildfires.
The visit focused on Construction Trades Lab, which is supported by a $2.8 million philanthropic investment through the LA Rises initiative, which is helping expand training for jobs such as construction and welding, according to the governor’s office.
“Wildfires have changed the scale of what this region needs, not just in homes, but in people with the skills to rebuild them,” Newsom said in a statement.
“A career in skilled trades can open doors and help boost incomes. I am grateful for Pasadena City College and all of the community colleges across the state that are connecting Californians with new skills and a stronger future,” he added.
Mayor Victor Gordo thanked Newsom for the state’s assistance.
“Let me begin by thanking Governor Newsom for his continued support of this vital education and job training program. I also want to recognize the PCC Board of Trustees and our partners at the Orange County/Los Angeles County Building Trades Council for their commitment to this effort.”
“I’m proud that the City of Pasadena helped convene the partnership that first seeded this idea. But let’s be clear, under the leadership of PCC President Dr. José Gómez, that vision didn’t just stay on paper. It was elevated, expanded, and brought to life.”
“Through determination, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose, Dr. Gómez has taken a concept and turned it into a transformative program, one that will prepare members of our community for meaningful careers and help rebuild our community, and this is just the beginning.”
The Eaton Fire burned more than 14,000 acres, killed 19 people, and destroyed nearly 7,000 homes and businesses.
Officials said the program is part of a broader effort to expand apprenticeship and earn-and-learn opportunities across California, particularly for workers who may not pursue a traditional college degree.
Since 2019, the state has created more than 674,000 such opportunities, including nearly 245,000 registered apprenticeships, surpassing the governor’s goal of reaching 500,000 apprenticeships by 2029, the governor’s office said.
State labor officials said programs like the Pasadena City College lab provide hands-on training, industry-recognized skills and a direct pathway to employment.
“This model builds on the Governor’s Master Plan on Career Education, aligning education and industry so students can step into careers with both confidence and a paycheck,” said Stewart Knox, secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency.
Pasadena City College President José A. Gómez said the program plays a key role in rebuilding communities affected by disaster while creating long- term career opportunities for students.
The visit also highlighted additional state investments in workforce development, including $13.2 million in grants for youth apprenticeship programs and tens of millions more aimed at expanding training, creating jobs and addressing labor shortages across multiple industries, officials said.
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