Pasadena City College Launches Summer Construction Career Program

On a hot, bright Tuesday morning, Pasadena City College (PCC) opened the doors of its first Summer Construction Career Program, welcoming high school students ready to build—not just structures, but their community’s future.

The program is part of Skills to Rebuild, PCC’s initiative to equip young people with skills essential for recovery in a region still healing from the Eaton Fire. Through a partnership with Harbor Freight Tools for Schools and the L.A. County Skilled Trades Summers, students receive hands-on training in welding, electrical work, building inspection, and industrial fabrication—while earning pay and industry-recognized credentials.

Many students in the inaugural class have experienced the fire’s devastation firsthand. Some lost homes, others saw neighborhoods transformed. Now, they are learning how to restore what was lost.

“I want to take a moment to recognize something truly special happening right here in our community,” said Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo during the program’s opening showcase. “You’ve taken time—your summer—to build skills, to learn, and to serve your community. That’s no small thing. That’s the kind of leadership our future depends on.”

City officials, educators, and community leaders—including PCC President José A. Gómez, Vice President Laura Ramirez, and CTE Dean Armine Derdiarian—attended the showcase. Belen Vargas from Harbor Freight Tools for Schools joined them in touring classrooms and meeting students and instructors.

“This program doesn’t just teach trades,” Gordo added. “It opens doors. It builds pathways to good careers, strong communities, and brighter futures.”

PCC plans to construct a new regional Career Technical Education (CTE) Training Center at its Colorado Boulevard campus.

According to officials, the facility will become a long-term hub for workforce development in high-demand industries like construction and electrical systems—fields crucial for wildfire recovery and climate resilience.

Gordo also acknowledged support from Harbor Freight Tools for Schools, the Ballmer Foundation, the United Way of Greater Los Angeles, and the PCC Foundation, thanking them for “believing in these students and investing in their future.”

As students demonstrated arc welds, circuit boards, and project plans, many voiced hopes of returning to rebuild their neighborhoods or to pursue further training at PCC. For them, the summer was more than just a class—it was a chance to act.

“You’re not just learning a trade,” Gordo told them. “You’re shaping the future of Pasadena and Altadena. For that, we are all proud. Thank you—and keep building.”