As time goes by, we are becoming more aware of how climate change can impact our lives. In California, the most prominent issues are the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires and the long-term risks to our water supply.
Fortunately, there are solutions available to address these challenges, allowing us to shift our focus from reacting to natural disasters to preventing them. The longer we delay taking action, the more severe the consequences and costs will be.
Proposition 4, which will be on the Nov. 5 ballot, represents a strategic investment in California’s environment, economy, and people. The $10 billion bond measure allocates $1.5 billion to prevent wildfires and smoke by creating fire breaks near communities, improving forest health, supporting specialized firefighting equipment, and implementing early detection and response systems. To safeguard safe drinking water sources, it includes $3.8 billion for treating groundwater contaminants, replenishing aquifers, upgrading deteriorating water infrastructure, and rehabilitating watersheds.
Moreover, Proposition 4 presents an exciting opportunity for California’s community colleges and their students. If approved, the measure will generate significant job opportunities in the evolving green economy. The key question is how we can equip the workforce needed for the upcoming tasks.
California’s Community Colleges are in a prime position to ensure that Proposition 4 funds are maximized to cultivate this new workforce. If passed, students will have access to new opportunities in career technical education programs that align with industry demands. These include:
Expansion of clean energy training programs: Proposition 4 could support initiatives in solar energy installation, wind turbine maintenance, and battery storage technology. By providing students with these skills, community colleges can prepare them for in-demand positions in the renewable energy sector, which is expected to expand as California enhances its clean energy infrastructure.
Green construction and sustainable building techniques: The bond could offer resources to enhance programs in sustainable construction, teaching students energy-efficient building methods and retrofitting techniques. These skills are crucial as California intensifies its efforts to construct climate-resilient infrastructure, opening up job opportunities for students in green construction.
Water management and conservation technology: With the state grappling with ongoing water issues, Proposition 4 could assist community colleges in developing programs focused on water conservation and management. Students trained in operating water technologies and wastewater treatment will be highly sought after in various sectors, particularly agriculture and public utilities.
Electric vehicle (EV) maintenance and infrastructure: Given the rapid transition to electric vehicles, funding from Proposition 4 could be utilized to expand EV technology programs, preparing students to service EVs and maintain charging stations. This would align with the state’s initiative to phase out gasoline-powered vehicles, creating prospects for students in a burgeoning market.
Work-based learning and internships in climate projects: Proposition 4 could facilitate collaborations between community colleges and green industry employers to offer internships and hands-on experience. Students could engage in real-world projects related to renewable energy, water management, or green construction, equipping them with practical skills and a competitive edge in the job market.
By allocating a minimum of 40% of its investment to disadvantaged communities, Proposition 4 ensures that these communities are integral to the forthcoming work, not mere observers.
As an educator, I perceive this as a chance for growth. California’s 116 community colleges are spread across the state and deeply connected to their communities, particularly those in rural areas. When natural disasters occur, these communities seek refuge at their local community college campuses. Proposition 4 offers California the opportunity to efficiently expand its climate infrastructure by leveraging its community colleges in two ways: as sites for infrastructure deployment and for workforce development. By broadening access to green job training programs, Proposition 4 will enable individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in the climate jobs of the future.
Today’s community college students will be the architects, technicians, and leaders of tomorrow. Proposition 4, with its focus on climate resilience, presents an opportunity to support these students in acquiring the skills necessary to thrive in a changing job market while preventing wildfires, ensuring safe drinking water, safeguarding California’s natural heritage, and contributing to the state’s transition to clean energy. Investing in them now means investing in California’s future.
Sonya Christian is the chancellor of the California Community Colleges, which is the largest higher education system in the United States.
In conclusion, Proposition 4 not only addresses environmental and economic concerns but also offers a promising future for community college students by creating job opportunities in the green economy. It is a chance for California to build a skilled workforce that can tackle the challenges posed by climate change while contributing to a sustainable future.
