The City of Parlier held a special meeting on November 7, 2024, where key discussions centered around workforce development initiatives in the region. The meeting featured a presentation by Marcia Danske from the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation, who introduced Danielle Dixon Oglesby, the workforce training coordinator.

Oglesby provided an overview of the Central Valley Training Center (CVTC), which has been operational since February 2020. The CVTC aims to address the shortage of skilled workers needed for the construction of the high-speed rail project. It serves as a workforce development center offering pre-apprenticeship classes and hands-on training for residents in the Central Valley, particularly targeting at-risk youth, minorities, and low-income populations across several counties, including Fresno, Kings, and Kern.

The program consists of two main components: technical training and soft skills development. Participants are introduced to over ten different trades, including bricklaying and carpentry. Upon completion, graduates earn various certifications, such as OSHA 30 and first aid CPR. The soft skills component focuses on cognitive behavioral training to enhance decision-making and work ethic, alongside job readiness workshops covering resume writing and interview skills.

Since its inception, the CVTC has graduated 223 participants across 15 cohorts, with 12 graduates from previous years currently employed. This initiative highlights the city's commitment to improving workforce readiness and supporting economic growth in the region.