Achieving Equity header

Upcoming Events

5/14 CEA Webinar: Wage & Hour Update

Stay ahead of California's complex wage-and-hour laws in this NO-COST virtual webinar hosted by the California Employers Association.


Gain valuable insights on key issues employers should know and discover essential tools and tips to stay compliant.

REGISTER TODAY

5/29 West Contra Costa Career Fair

Unite with top employers from diverse industries at the West Contra Costa Career Fair on May 29, presented by the Bay Front Chamber of Commerce and WDBCCC.


Discover exciting job prospects and network with peers at the Hercules Community Center.


Whether you're an experienced professional or starting your career journey, explore fresh job openings and elevate your career trajectory.


Pre-register by 5/28 for a chance to win a gift card!

LEARN MORE

Info Sessions for 10-Week Marine Trades Skills Trainings

Marine Industry Skills Labor Shortage!


Work on the Water & Waterfronts!


Learn skills and train for an exciting career in the Maritime Industry.


Join our upcoming info sessions:


Wed. 5/14, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

America's Job Center Concord (AJCC)


Wed. 5/22 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

San Pablo Community Center

SIGN UP NOW

Business Resources

East Bay EDA has published its new and updated Business Resource Map. Explore over 400 resources that include Access to Capital, Local Chambers, Education & Workforce Development, and more. Connect with business resources that match your need and submit your own resources if not included in the directory.

CalOSBA is providing resources for small businesses through the Technical Assistance for Capital Readiness Program. The program is backed by funding from the U.S. Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative. SSBCI is designed to spur investment to businesses with 1-9 employees, small manufacturing companies, and businesses operated by owners from underserved communities.

Richmond Inclusivity Project Capital Summit at CoBiz Richmond

CoBiz Richmond hosted The Inclusivity Project Capital Summit on February 29th, featuring three panels of speakers representing local, state, and federal contracting and funding opportunities. Charles Brown III, WDBCCC Business Services Representative (pictured right, with Wesley Alexander, CEO of CoBiz Richmond), along with other Contra Costa and East Bay regional stakeholders were in attendance.


The Inclusivity Project provides no-cost business development assistance, training, mentoring, and resource referrals to its members. The Project is designed as a one-stop shop for Northern California’s black entrepreneurs looking to start, purchase, or grow a business, and who are serious about investing in themselves, their businesses, and their communities.

Leadership Contra Costa Panelist

Workforce Development Board’s Administrator Maureen Nelson participated as a panelist for Leadership Contra Costa. This program trains citizens on how to lead in various areas, including arts and education, business and economic development, sustainability, health and human services, as well as government and political processes.


Maureen presented on the WDB’s business services alongside Nayab Siddiqi of SCORE East Bay, Tatiana Hermeston of Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, and Nancy Mangold of East Bay Small Business Development Center.

East Bay EDA Innovation Awards

The 11th annual East Bay Innovation Awards celebrates and honors remarkable organizations and people that contribute to the legacy of pioneering advancements.


The event was held on March 28 at the Oakland Scottish Rite Center with over 500 attendees, including our Executive Director Tamia Brown (center) and Workforce Service Specialists staff.


Click here to learn more about the Awards Finalists and Legacy Awardee!

Career & Internship Fair a Success!

Over 250 students, community members, faculty, and staff attended the Contra Costa Career & Internship Fair on April 3, connecting with 65+ employers! Over 70 students received free professional clothing from the Comet Career Closet, a new campus resource.


The event, held at Contra Costa College in San Pablo, was made possible through a partnership between the Workforce Development Boards of Contra Costa County and Richmond, along with sponsorships from Lao Family Community Development and the Antioch Community Foundation.

 

“As a faculty member, I found this profoundly fruitful and appreciate the networking opportunities it provided… Awesome event!”

Aurelio Gears Up for Trucking Success: Rubicon Programs Success Story

Aurelio Cardona arrived at the Brentwood, CA Rubicon, WIOA office with one goal in mind: to get his life in order and become a Class A truck driver.


Despite facing numerous obstacles, including probation resulting from his recent involvement with the justice system and immigration uncertainties, Aurelio remained hopeful for a brighter future.


His career coach, Diana Bonilla, supported him diligently, keeping track of his court obligations and immigration matters. Finally, Aurelio received the long-awaited news - his visa status was declared in good standing.


This news lifted a significant weight off his shoulders, enabling him to continue his journey toward a self-sufficient and prosperous future. Now, the only bumps on his road were the potholes on the interstates he would be traversing in his big rig!



Though the justice system left its mark, Aurelio refused to be defined by it. Excelling in his Class A truck driver course, he's expected to complete the training this month. For him, truck driving represents more than just a job; it's an opportunity to navigate the open road and forge a path paved with possibilities.


Expressing gratitude for Diana's unwavering support, Aurelio acknowledges her pivotal role in his journey: “Before, I felt lost without any opportunities. Now, I have a second chance at life! Without my coach, Diana, I honestly feel like none of this would have been possible. She was constantly there, checking in on me, encouraging me, and opening so many doors I previously felt I could never walk through. WIOA is such an amazing program - I’m proof of that!”

Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

In celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Contra Costa County Library is hosting several great events and cultural experiences for people of all ages. Check out their events calendar to find an opportunity for you and your family.

VIEW EVENTS CALENDAR

Jobseeker Events in May

Looking to change careers this year? Check out EastBay Works' events, where you can gain certifications and other job-training skills. This month's events include:



* Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) Information Session Tue. May 14, 10:00 a.m.


* On-Site Recruitment - Aloha Staffing: Thur. May 16, 11:00 a.m.


* Marketing Yourself: Resumes and Applications Thurs. May 23, 10:00 a.m.

VIEW MORE EVENTS

Labor Market Update

Contra Costa County's unemployment rate was 4.7 percent in March 2024. That's down from 5.0 percent in February 2024. Read the most recent state labor report for the Oakland-Hayward-Berkeley Metropolitan Division.

READ THE LABOR MARKET UPDATE

Stay In-the-Know

Want to stay updated on WDBCCC news and upcoming events in Contra Costa County? Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Facebook  Linkedin  Instagram

If this email was forwarded to you, quickly sign up to receive future editions of this newsletter and other communications.