Workforce Development

Large group at Downey's City of STEM event
Article Local Works By Juddy Montenegro

The city behind LA County’s biggest STEM initiative

Downey’s City of STEM inspires thousands of kids of all ages every day in April to create, experiment, explore, and have fun. The program targets youth traditionally underrepresented in STEM learning, bringing providers to them to create dialogues and raise awareness about related careers and activities. 

Article Local Works By Brian Mohan

Moreno Valley program builds connections and careers

Roughly half of Moreno Valley residents leave the area for work each day. Early results from the MoVal Apprenticeship Hub suggest that trends might be reversing. The program connects local employers to a pipeline of trained talent and provides residents with paid, hands-on apprenticeship opportunities. 

Article News from the Institute for Local Government By Amanda Hirschmann

Can apprenticeships be the answer to California’s local government workforce challenges?

 When most people hear “apprenticeship,” they think of electricians or plumbers. But California has expanded apprenticeships into non-traditional areas, including administrative roles in local government. 

Article California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence by Judith Franco

Vacaville’s Summer at City Hall builds generational bridges

Summer at City Hall equips Vacaville youth with job readiness skills and a deeper understanding of local government. But city officials say the four-week program is more than just preparing students for jobs. It’s also about building community and giving them confidence.

Article California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence By Brian Mohan

Hire MoVal shortens commutes, boosts jobs and income levels

In bustling Moreno Valley, the daily commute isn’t just a routine — it’s a formidable challenge. Spending several hours a week on the road to get to and from work can negatively affect people’s finances and health — and a city’s economy. 

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government By Christy Jewell and Rafael Aguilera

What is keeping public sector hiring pools low?

Unclear career pathways, inflexible scheduling, and complicated hiring processes can exacerbate workforce challenges. Many cities are turning to strategies used by private sector employers, like skills-based hiring and registered apprenticeships, to meet their workforce needs.

Article Special to Cal Cities By Vanessa Luna

Opinion: Why cities should consider taking on an ACC AmeriCorps Member like me

“I couldn’t find anything that inspired me here in California, where I was rooted and wanted to stay,” writes Vanessa Luna, a former American Connection Corps AmeriCorps Member with the city of Santa Paula. “That all changed when ACC gave me an opportunity to serve right here in the town where I grew up.”

Article Local Works By Christine Jones

San Diego is driving change through an arts workforce program

The city of San Diego is leading Far South/Border North, a regional initiative for artists and cultural practitioners. The program provided grant funding to 78 recipients for outreach and awareness campaigns focused on everything from public health to civic engagement.