Registration is now open for a free job training program that prepares local residents for high-paying careers in industrial facilities.
For more than 40 years, the Regional Occupational Program, which is funded by the Chevron Richmond Refinery, and implemented by the Contra Costa County Office of Education, has launched hundreds of successful careers in the fuels and petrochemicals industries, including many Chevron employees.
Those interested in joining the five-month-long Process Plant Operator (PPO) and Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (IMM) programs can sign up here by 5 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 13. Interested students should attend an information session on Tuesday, Jan. 14, at Chevron 91 Gate.
The PPO class is offered Mon-Thurs., 1-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. The IMM class is offered Mon.-Thurs., 1-5 p.m. and 6-10 p.m. Both classes start on Jan. 20 and are held at the Chevron Hensley Campus in Richmond.
The PPO course prepares students for entry level jobs operating refinery equipment, such as heating, lubrication and refining systems. The IMM program prepares students for entry level maintenance/mechanic jobs, such as welder/pipefitter, electrician and machinist.
Students will learn technical skills such as mechanics, mathematics and chemistry, along with communication and analytical skills, safety practices and how to work independently and as part of a team. They are also provided job interview training.
While students are encouraged to consider open positions at the Richmond Refinery, graduates are eligible for industrial jobs at many other companies. Students in the program often form strong bonds with their peers and Chevron trainers, who often track their students’ career progression after they’ve moved on from the program.
To be eligible for either program, students must be at least age 18, possess a high school diploma or GED, pass a basic math and reading comprehension assessment, and have a valid California driver’s license.
