Employment Training Panel approves $3M funding for multiple projects

The Employment Training Panel (ETP) meeting held on April 25, 2025, focused on significant funding decisions aimed at enhancing workforce training across California. The panel approved a total of $3 million in funding, which includes six delegation orders and several project proposals that promise to impact local communities positively.

One of the key highlights was the approval of 15 projects, which are expected to create or enhance training opportunities for hundreds of workers. Among these, Structure Therapeutics received $189,000 to train 90 employees in South San Francisco, while the Olive Oil Factory secured $110,880 to train 99 workers in Fairfield. Both companies emphasized their commitment to effective training and employee development, with the Olive Oil Factory noting improvements in their HR capacity since their last contract.

The panel also discussed the Electronic Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP), which is designed to support applicants under the CALI grant system. This initiative aims to bolster the state's workforce in the growing electric vehicle sector, reflecting California's commitment to sustainable energy and job creation.

In addition to funding approvals, the meeting addressed the demand for training programs, with 222 applications currently in the pipeline, representing a total estimated value of over $110 million. This demand underscores the ongoing need for workforce development in various sectors, including small businesses and apprenticeships.

The ETP's policy committee also met prior to the panel meeting, discussing revisions to guidelines for veterans and justice-involved youth, which are set to be presented for full approval in upcoming meetings. These revisions aim to enhance support for these specific groups, aligning with broader community goals of inclusivity and opportunity.

As the panel moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that training programs are tailored to meet the evolving needs of California's workforce, ultimately fostering economic growth and stability in the region. The next steps will involve monitoring the implementation of approved projects and continuing to address the training demands of the state's diverse industries.