BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Of the 43 total participants, 29 Bakersfield College students were selected to participate in this year's 5-session virtual program of the Energy and Ag Academy.
Session 1 launched with a lineup of presenters and speakers who covered various topics from fracking, produced water, dirty water, how energy gets to households, to how many jobs the energy industry creates.
To support this work, Bakersfield College and the Kern Community College District are joining the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the County of Kern, and the Kern Economic Development Corporation to launch the Energy: Technology Transfer and Workforce Development collaborative.
“We had over 50 applications this year from very passionate and dedicated students. It is great to see students not shy away from extracurricular, career-driven activities that will not only benefit them with a stipend at the end, but equip them with a more vibrant resume, important network connections, and a deeper understanding of the important issues within these industries over the next 10 years.” Jay Tamsi, president/CEO of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce says, “I am delighted to continue our tradition of providing the annual Energy and Agriculture Academy for students at BC and throughout our local communities. This program has been made possible by the generous contributions of Chevron, Kern Energy Festival, California Resources Corporation, Aera Energy, Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Business Education Foundation and other wonderful industry partners. With their support, these select students are given a priceless opportunity to learn directly from local employers and industry leaders about various careers and industry needs.”
Students participating in the academy will hear from industry professionals in energy and Agriculture, they will be eligible to receive financial scholarships and internship and leadership opportunities.
The Academy offers students the opportunity to become Student Ambassadors at the KCHCC and provides opportunities for volunteering in the community and meeting with elected officials.
Sessions will take place Fridays until Nov. 20 where the program will conclude with participant recognition and scholarships for students who successfully complete the academy.
