Building on Success, Maritime Grants Program Expands to East Bay Region | | |
The Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County (WDBCCC)'s successful Marine Trades Skills Training (MTST) creates an enduring model that expands through our collaboration with Alameda County.
Supported by California's High Roads Training Partnership (HRTP), the Marine Trades and Waterfront Transportation Careers – our expansion into Oakland, Richmond, and other parts of Alameda County – is now underway. This continued investment in marine trades ensures that the region will maintain a pipeline for maritime workforce development using the infrastructure, curriculum, and partnerships cultivated under MTST.
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Addressing Workforce Gaps with Inclusive Recruitment
Awarded $500,000 from the California Workforce Development Board to introduce underserved populations to maritime career pathways, particularly in ship repair and maintenance, MTST achieved its core training goal, setting the stage for continuity and growth in the Bay Area.
MTST launched its Round 11 Initiative in June 2023, successfully enrolling 31 individuals, exceeding its participant goal. This 10-week curriculum centered on introductory shipboard trades. The program prioritized equity by recruiting individuals with barriers to employment, including justice-involved individuals, women, and people of color. Of the 31 participants:
- 83% were low-income,
- 77% identified as people of color,
- 20% were women.
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Building Skills and Delivering Results
Participants received hands-on training in shipboard welding, electrical work, machining, and marine painting, alongside OSHA 10 and First Aid/CPR certifications. In total:
- 29 individuals completed the training.
- All 29 earned industry-recognized credentials.
- $54,000 in stipends were distributed to support participants during training.
Since program completion in March 2025,12 participants secured employment, and WDBCCC continues to support job placement and provide services beyond the grant lifecycle.
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Partnerships that Powered the Program
Deep collaboration across industry, labor, and community partners enabled this program to flourish. Friends of the Port dba Working Waterfront Coalition led planning and convening efforts, as well as supporting curriculum development and training. Bay Ship & Yacht and Mare Island Dry Dock supported curriculum development and training. Rubicon Programs provided enrollment and case management services. WETA, American Navigation, Chevron, and the Inland Boatmen's Union each contributed essential resources, facilities, and program development expertise. An Industry Advisory Board guided the curriculum creation and helped identify instructors and training locations, including the historic Red Oak Victory ship used for hands-on learning.
For more information about this program or future training opportunities, please contact Patricia Conley, Program Manager:
Phone: (925) 655-3818
Email: pconley@ehsd.cccounty.us
| | Celebrating Juneteenth in Contra Costa County | | |
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States. Originating in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, it has grown into a nationwide celebration of freedom, heritage, and culture.
There are numerous Juneteenth celebrations happening in Contra Costa County this month. Click on the links for more information:
| | Support Services Workshop for Displaced Oil & Gas Workers in Contra Costa County | | | | |
Virtual Session
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Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025
- Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
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Location: Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 860 5737 3656
Passcode: 858042
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdLVCKIflL
In-Person Session
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Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
- Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- Location: Concord America's Job Center of California, 4071 Port Chicago Highway, Suite 250, Concord, 94520
| | WDBCCC Represented at CWA's WorkCon 2025 | | Director Brown represented the WDBCCC Bay Area Jobs First Region as a Steering Committee Member on the "Statewide Partnerships for Pathways to High Paying, Great Careers in California" panel at WorkCon 2025, discussing California's Jobs First Initiative. WorkCon is the California Workforce Association's annual conference. | | Pictured (L to R): Derek Kirk, Senior Advisor for Economic Policy, Go-Biz; Tamia Brown, Executive Director, WDBCCC; David Thoeny, Executive Director, Mother Lode Job Training; Kaina Pereira, Executive Director, California Workforce Development Board; Erick Serrato, Merced County Workforce Development Board; Anthony Cordova, Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development, California Community Colleges | | Pictured (L to R): Curtis Notssineh, California Workforce Association Executive Director; Tamia Brown, Executive Director, WDBCCC; Stuart Knox, Secretary of the California Labor & Workforce Development Agency; Kaina Pereira, Executive Director, California Workforce Development Board | | |
Tariffs on imported goods continue to impact both importers and exporters, presenting challenges for businesses operating in an increasingly complex global economy. WDBCCC is committed to equipping local businesses with the necessary tools and resources to stay competitive.
The Tariff Resource Guide, created by GO-Biz, offers valuable insights to help businesses proactively address tariff-related challenges. By mapping their product supply chains, businesses can better identify vulnerabilities to trade disruptions and make informed decisions regarding risk management.
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In a recent article, our partner EastBay EDA highlights California's investment in a forward-looking economic strategy, with manufacturing as a key driver. As national trends continue to evolve, the state is focusing on regional growth by supporting industries that foster innovation, create quality jobs, and strengthen communities.
The article highlights the East Bay’s vital role in this strategy, showcasing its diverse and dynamic manufacturing sector as well-equipped to take the lead. By aligning state investments with the real needs of manufacturers, California aims to enhance competitiveness, attract new businesses, and expand opportunities throughout the region.
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Are you a student, parent, teacher, or counselor, or do you know someone with school-aged kids in the Bay Area? This summer, take advantage of the many enriching opportunities offered through your local community colleges.
Bay Area community colleges are offering a wide range of summer camps and classes for K–12 students, including programs designed for elementary, middle, and high school youth. Whether your child is interested in science, music, health, computers, culinary arts, or manufacturing, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, most programs are free or low-cost, making them accessible to families throughout the region.
In addition to K–12 offerings, this resource includes links to regular community college courses for learners of all ages, both in-person and online. A statewide list of online classes is also available.
This is a great opportunity for students to explore new interests, build skills, and get a taste of college life.
Employers – consider sharing this resource with your staff to help working parents discover engaging summer options for their kids.
Let's get the word out and help Bay Area youth stay curious, creative, and connected this summer!
| | Explore a Career in Manufacturing - Free Summer Bootcamp Opportunity! | | | | |
The Machinists Institute is offering a FREE 4-Week "Introduction to Manufacturing" Boot Camp this summer for anyone curious about a career in manufacturing.
Whether you're a recent graduate, exploring career pathways, or looking to gain hands-on experience in a high-demand industry, this opportunity is for you!
Program Dates: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 – Thursday, July 10, 2025
Location: Heidenhain Connect Hub, Fremont, CA
Schedule: Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
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Participants will gain an overview of modern manufacturing, engage in hands-on learning, and connect with professionals in the field. It’s an excellent way to explore future opportunities in a sector known for innovation, stability, and upward mobility.
Spots are limited, early application is highly encouraged.
| | The WDBCCC has released its schedule for upcoming Board Meetings, which are open to the public. Please note that meeting dates are subject to change. | | |
• Business & Economic Development Committee, Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Full Board, Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m
• Executive Committee, Wednesday, August 13, 2025, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m
Please visit our website for the most up-to-date information.
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Contra Costa County's unemployment rate was 4.3 percent in April 2025. That's down from a revised 4.4 percent in March 2025. Read the most recent State Labor Report for the Oakland-Hayward-Berkeley Metropolitan Division.
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