BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — A secure and stable energy future depends on an innovative coalition of partners. Join the Kern Community College District, Bakersfield College, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the County of Kern, and others for a presentation and discussion on innovative strategies and workforce development opportunities for the region on Oct. 7 at 10 a.m. via Zoom.
Pre-registration is required and is available now on the Bakersfield College website.
This partnership aims to look closer at Kern County’s unique geography to identify and develop new energy opportunities throughout the region while training the energy workforce for the future.
Kern County Supervisors Mike Maggard and Zack Scrivener have both issued statements of support for BC’s newly established Energy Technology Transfer and Workforce Development program, outlining how the work of this partnership is crucial for securing prosperity and economic vitality in the region.
“The Kern Community College District has a long history of successful work in this arena and has a proven record of success in supporting our workers, employers, and the community as a whole,” said Leticia Perez of Kern County’s Board of Supervisors. She continued, “The County of Kern endorses the Energy TT & WO project in alignment with our Strategic Initiatives to enhance the quality of life for residents, be a model of excellence, and foster a culture of innovation.”
The conference will feature a variety of industry and community leaders, including:
● David Mooney, Executive Director, Institutional Planning and Development of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory
● Leticia Perez, Chair of Kern County Board of Supervisors
● Kevin McCarthy, U.S. House of Representatives, CA 23rd District
● Thomas J. Burke, Chancellor of Kern Community College District
● Sonya Christian, President of Bakersfield College
● Cathy Reheis-Boyd, President of Western States Petroleum Association
● Lorelei Oviatt, Director of Kern County Planning and Natural Resources
● Sarah Kurtz, Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, UC Merced
● Richard Chapman, President/CEO of Kern Economic Development Corporation
“Kern County is now known, around the world, as a place to site and permit innovative green projects. This exciting collaboration between energy research and education will expand our connection to attract talented start- up companies who want to put their ideas into practice,” said Kern County Planning and Natural Resources director, Lorelei Oviatt.
The webinar is free and open to the public.
