The San Joaquin Regional Conservation Corps (SJRCC) accepted a $20,000 check from Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) on Feb. 26 for a Career Development Pilot Program aimed to help Corpsmembers build job skills. The pilot program will help Corpsmembers develop soft skills, build resumes, provide mock interviews, provide job searching tools and resources, and improve customer service skills.
Steve Kieffer, SJRCC career developer and recycling supervisor, said that the SJRCC is excited to develop the anticipated piece to the Corps to Career Program.
“Career development is an essential part of our service to our Corpsmembers,” he said. “When an individual exits the program it is important to us that that they transition into a full-time job or higher education.”
PG&E Director Nick Glero presented the check to SJRCC Coordinator Nicholas Mueller and Kieffer, as well as County Superintendent of Schools James Mousalimas during an open house event that invited potential Corpsmembers and community members to learn more about the SJRCC program.
“We are grateful to PG&E for giving us the opportunity and resources to provide the additional support our Corpsmembers need as they enter the workforce. The program is a much needed asset that will help Corpsmembers be career-ready and successful in 21st century jobs,” Mousalimas said.
The SJRCC serves local youth and young adults, ages 18 to 25, in San Joaquin County. On average SJRCC serves 51 participants annually. Participants are referred to as Corpsmembers. The goal of SJRCC is to provide valuable career and vocational training and the opportunity for Corpsmembers to transform and improve their lives.
“We are pleased to support the San Joaquin County Office of Education and Regional Conservation Corps in this pilot program. The participating Corpsmembers will gain valuable experience that will help them chart a path to future career success. Programs like this benefit individuals and communities by increasing employment opportunity,” said Glero.
Employees in this San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) program actively work to improve the community by taking part in recycling, graffiti removal, litter abatement, and natural resource projects while earning $10- $11.50 an hour. Individuals interested in becoming a Corpsmember need to be 18 to 25 years old and have a high school diploma or GED, or be enrolled in a high school diploma or GED program.
The SJRCC plans to host another open house later this spring. For more information about the SJRCC, visit http://www.sanjoaquinrcc.org.
To view an informational video click here: https://youtu.be/SvjOtU9CUl4