“Investing in education is investing in our future.”
In a significant stride toward educational enhancement, Columbia College proudly announces the launch of the “Sierra K-16: Workforce Ready, Future Engaged” program. This initiative is a crucial part of a broader $72.5 million statewide effort unveiled by Governor Gavin Newsom, aimed at strengthening the bridge between education and career readiness.
About the Program:
Spanning seven counties—including Tuolumne, Calaveras, Amador, Alpine, Mariposa, Inyo, and Mono—the Sierra K-16 program, backed by an $18.1 million grant from the state, focuses on creating seamless educational-to-career pipelines. Our vision is clear: to forge pathways in education, healthcare, computer science, and engineering that mirror the future job market and current technological trends.
Columbia College’s Role:
As the lead agency, Columbia College, under the leadership of President Lena Tran, coordinates with a robust network of local school districts, higher education institutions, and employer groups. Our collective goal is to provide our students with access to enhanced educational opportunities and targeted career pathways, ensuring they are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.
Collaborative Efforts for a Brighter Future:
Our partners, including the University of California, Merced; California State University, Stanislaus; and numerous local organizations such as Adventist Health Sonora and Apple Inc., are integral to this initiative. Together, we are dedicated to developing training and transfer plans that align with regional employment needs, thus supporting our students in their journey from kindergarten through college.
Join Us in This Transformative Journey:
We invite you to learn more about the Sierra K-16 program and explore how you can contribute to shaping the future of our community. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our young people and ensure a prosperous future for the Eastern Sierra region.
On behalf of Columbia College, we acknowledge the land on which we stand today as the traditional home of the Central Sierra MeWuk Peoples. Without them, we would not have access to this gathering and to this dialog. We take this opportunity to thank the original caretakers of this land who are still here.