$4M Grant to Support Displaced Oil & Gas Workers in Contra Costa County

We're thrilled to announce that WDBCCC has been selected as one of only four organizations to receive a grant to aid displaced oil and gas workers throughout the region.

Supported by the State of California's General funds, this grant will enable us to spearhead new initiatives to guide these workers toward new job opportunities and career paths. Our focus will be on five high-growth sectors: transportation, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, energy, and construction.

"We are excited about the opportunity to help our region's skilled oil and gas workers transition into sustainable careers for the future green economy," said Tamia Brown, executive director of WDBCCC.

The grant is poised to make a significant impact by providing training, upskilling, or placement opportunities to at least 200 participants in quality jobs with sustainable wages.

Marine Trades Career Opportunities

Interested in a career in the growing maritime industry? We offer hands-on training for Marine Trades and Water Transportation careers.

For more information, visit the link below, or contact us:



Veronica: (925) 671-4538 | vramos1@ehsd.cccounty.us

Patricia: (925) 671-4552 | pconley@ehsd.cccounty.us

Working Waterfront Coalition (WWC) is hiring part-time Marine Trades Instructors.

WWC is still accepting applications, the training program is scheduled to begin Spring of 2024.

If you are interested, please submit your resume to Sal Vaca, Project Director: s.vaca@comcast.net



Upcoming Partner Events

HR Department of 1, Strategies for Success

Thur. March 21, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. (Zoom Webinar)

Hosted by HR expert Trisha Zulic, discover strategies for success in managing HR departments, even when you're a one-person show. Gain insights on becoming a strategic ally within your management team, and ways to help leadership understand, believe in, and support the HR role in your organization.

This event is presented by our partner, the Contra Costa County Employer Advisory Council.

East Bay Leadership Series

Tues. April 9, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m. (In-Person Event)

The East Bay Leadership Council presents the third and final event in their 2024 series, featuring Tani Cantil-Sakauye, CEO of the Public Policy Institute of California and former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of California.

Attendees will gain insights into polling, election dynamics, California law, and politics. WDBCCC is a proud contributing sponsor of this event.

AMBayArea Summit

Tues. April 23, 1:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The AMBayArea Summit, an annual event, offers Bay Area manufacturing leaders an opportunity to glean insights from subject matter experts, reestablish connections with colleagues, and forge new relationships.

WDB Service Awards

Congratulations to two Workforce Development Board (WDB) Staff Members for earning the Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) Service Awards! 

KaSandra Knox, Employment Placement Counselor, was honored with the award for 20 years of service, with WDB Executive Director Tamia Brown attending the ceremony.

Byron Devera, Lead Clerk Specialist was honored with the award for 10 years of service.

Maureen Nelson, WDB Administrator, and Tamia Brown, WDB Executive Director attended the ceremony.

Jobseeker Success Story

Luissaidee Limon, a dedicated mother of two, found her path with the WIOA program through Rubicon Programs.

Initially uncertain about her career path and with little familial support, Luissaidee found inspiration and guidance from her dedicated Career Coach, Diana Bonilla.

Juggling parenthood, Luissaidee carved out hours to study in the evenings. She never missed a day of class at Contra Costa Medical Career College, and graduated from the Phlebotomy program at the top of her class!

Luissaidee was the only student from her class to secure an externship at Kaiser Permanente. On her final day, her site supervisor exclaimed, "I better see your application on my desk!"

With unwavering determination, Luissaidee landed her dream job as a Lab Assistant II at Kaiser Permanente, Pleasanton, California, on the very first attempt! Not only did she achieve her initial goal of becoming a Phlebotomist, but she surpassed it, securing a position that pays $36.09 an hour.

Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, and she hopes it inspires others to pursue their own ambitions with unwavering confidence.

"I am thankful for everything, for the WIOA program," says Luissaidee. She is especially grateful for her Career Coach Diana Bonilla: "She was someone to explain everything with patience to me and be there for me, and that was the main difference...she was my cheerleader!"

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:

* Loaves and Fish Culinary Arts Program Information: Tue. March 12, 1:00 p.m.

*Department of Rehabilitation on Site: Thur. March 21, 9:00 a.m.

* Lunch and Learn: Understanding and Building Your Credit: Thur. March 28, 12:00 p.m.

NOTE: AJCC Concord's Typing Certification, Resume Review, and Career Assessment Schedule has changed to every first and third Tuesday of the month from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Stay In-the-Know

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

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