Students at the Center for Employment Training (CET) Santa Maria training facility had the opportunity to meet with Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) while the senator toured the facility on April 22.
Jackson discussed the importance of workforce development opportunities for youth and adults in Northern Santa Barbara County. The visit also gave Jackson personal insight into the various career pathways and vocational courses CET offers. Jackson took the time to meet one-on-one with the students, who shared their aspirations and their challenges as single mothers and as members of low-income to no-income families. Student Angela Barriga said in a press release, “Inspiring, how great it is, that a woman can reach and accomplish so much! I’m so glad I got to meet her.”
Jackson shared her work at the state level for improving wages for women, discussed the need for a trained workforce, and for developing strong partnerships with local employers in Santa Barbara County.
Jackson stated that she would like to help CET continue its longevity of quality workforce development services by connecting us with a broader base of employers and trade unions to promote employment opportunities for CET graduates, according to the press release. The discussion concluded with the importance of keeping training and supportive services funds flowing to the community, especially for those most in need in Northern Santa Barbara County.
To learn more, visit cetweb.org and locate CET Santa Maria or call 928-1737.
This article appears in May 5-12, 2016.