Governor Newsom visits MJC to Announce the Master Plan for Career Education

Modesto Junior College hosted Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday, April 2nd for the announcement of his Master Plan for Career Education. The press conference took place at the Regional Fire Training Center where MJC Fire Academy and EMT courses and hands-on training activities are held. Officials from Modesto Junior College, City of Modesto, Stanislaus State, UC Merced, Merced College, Stanislaus County Office of Education, Northern San Joaquin K-16 Collaborative, CA State Assembly and more were invited to a round table discussion on career pathways in career technical education. The Governor's plan is focused on creating easier access points to education for students in CTE fields, providing college credit for professional experience and achievement, and allowing high school students to explore technical career paths through dual enrollment opportunities.

California's economy is built on industries from healthcare to advanced manufacturing and information technology. The California Community Colleges is comprised of 116 colleges and serves more than 2 million students in rural, urban and suburban communities. As discussed by Governor Newsom during the workforce panel discussion, colleges are innovating education through Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, and employer connections. All of these career pathways open doors for all Californians and are key to achieving the goals of the state's Masterplan for Career Education.

Modesto Junior College fire academy student, Mason Manly, provided his perspective to the discussion panel that included Governor Newsom, on the student experience and his career plans for the future. His first-hand perspective provides important insight for government, educational and industry leaders, and will help ensure that the implementation of Governor's Master Plan for Career Education meets the needs and goals of students. Modesto Junior College stands ready to provide learners the skills they need to achieve their career goals, contribute to a highly skilled local workforce through relevant and innovative education, and to grow our state's economy.