Willie Atkinson

The Panel discussed funding strategies and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year, including recommendations for priority industries, project caps, and reimbursement rates. Action items included the approval of an apprenticeship funding model and the adoption of revised medical skills training guidelines. Additionally, the Panel reviewed several single and multiple employer funding proposals, including those for various businesses and chambers of commerce, and addressed legislative updates concerning workforce development and workplace rights training. Discussions also covered grant awardees for the Social Entrepreneurs for Economic Development (SEED) program.

This Strategic Plan outlines the direction for The California Employment Training Panel from 2024 to 2027, serving as a roadmap to create and retain high-wage jobs with equitable access to training for career advancement. The plan focuses on five core goals: supporting California's workforce with sustainable jobs and career pathways, bolstering small businesses through private-public partnerships, contributing to the state's overall economic growth, enhancing internal operations through improved communication and engagement, and demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation in technology and data. The overarching vision is to be the premier resource for workforce training, promoting high wages and career progression, with a steadfast focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for all workers.

The meeting agenda includes executive, legislative, budget, and policy committee reports. Key action items involve the review and approval of numerous funding proposals for various organizations and companies. Additionally, the panel will hear a presentation on medical skills guidelines, a report on Social Entrepreneurs for Economic Development grant awardees, and a review of Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program fund guidelines.

The committee discussed updates to the Medical Skills Guidelines, including proposed revisions such as removing the 50% cap on CBT training and expanding eligibility to include Community Health occupations. Additionally, the committee evaluated potential name changes for training delivery methods, specifically E-Learning and Computer-Based Training, ultimately deciding to maintain current terminology. The meeting also addressed revisions to the PE Demand List for MEC applications, resulting in the approval of requirements for notification of inclusion and industry selection, while excluding other proposed additions such as county designation and repeat employer indicators. Updates were also provided on the CNA to LVN Guidelines, and future discussion topics concerning the impact of AI on training and the implications of SB 464 were noted.

The Employment Training Panel discussed its legislative report, including pending bills AB534 and SB1059, and provided technology updates regarding improvements to the application process for the upcoming fiscal year, such as the elimination of duplicative questions and the integration of new data fields. Funding priorities and limitations for the annual strategy review were addressed, and a specific funding model for apprenticeship programs was presented. The panel also reviewed and approved funding proposals for Aero Environment, Inc. and Balfour Beatty Construction LLC to support workforce training and business expansion.