The Sonoma County Alliance has partnered with Tomorrow’s Leadership Today, the Sonoma County Office of Education, the Santa Rosa Junior College, and other supporters, after the formation of the Education Committee, which was itself created after the need to address workforce development was identified. This partnership has resulted in the creation of a Career Readiness Program, which is taking contributions to help students gain skills and career-ready practices that will prepare the young adults in our community to enter college and ultimately, the workforce.

The Career Readiness Program includes a 10-week skills course which leads to a certification, guest speakers, possible internships of up to 40 hours, and job shadowing. The pilot program was rolled out this fall, and included at least five students from each Santa Rosa High School. They will leave the program with an academic and career plan tailored to the individual.

The Sonoma County Alliance also holds an annual Education Day where local leaders that have really made an impact are acknowledged for their hard work and the lives they have influenced. Education is the foundation of the workforce in Sonoma County. Strong education leads to a strong workforce, so the SCA is an avid supporter of improving local education in any way possible.