By Mike Aldax
Registration recently opened for the Chevron Regional Occupational Program (ROP), and instructor Jay Lloyd is poised to continue his notable win streak in prepping students for lucrative careers.
Since joining the free job training program at Chevron Richmond in 2021, 57 of Lloyd’s ROP students have been hired by Chevron. Other students went on to work at other industrial facilities like Phillips 66, Coca-Cola, Clean Harbors and local wastewater treatment plants.
Funded by the Chevron Richmond Refinery and implemented by the Contra Costa County Office of Education, ROP has launched hundreds of successful careers across a number of industries.
“This is about people coming to class, getting motivated and building confidence toward whatever career goals they have.”
The 18-week-long Plant Process Operator course prepares students for entry level jobs operating refinery equipment, such as heating, lubrication and refining systems. Students are also trained in communication and analytical skills, safety practices and how to work independently and as part of a team.
They are also provided support in crafting their resumes, and Chevron Richmond employees volunteer their time to provide them with mock interviews.
“I’ve had a young lady who came through my program looking forward to becoming an operator, but she performed so well during her mock interview that she was hired on to Chevron Richmond’s payroll department,” Lloyd said, noting that the employee who facilitated her mock interview is the human resources supervisor at Chevron Richmond.
Lloyd’s success isn’t necessarily in job placement. He focuses on preparing his students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, for success in life.
“This is about people coming to class, getting motivated and building confidence toward whatever career goals they have,” he said.
Lloyd said his job isn’t to make his students different people, “but to unlock the things that are already inside you.”
Those interested in joining ROP should click here to register. Classes start on Jan. 21 and take place at the Chevron Richmond Training Center. Registration closes Nov. 1.
To be eligible, 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.
For more information or questions, email: Jeff Brauning, Coordinator, College and Career Readiness, at [email protected].
