Where we foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character, and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community.
04/23/2026
Imperial Valley College recently hosted its first LIFT Industry Showcase, an event that united students, faculty, and regional industry to highlight workforce training programs that are keys to the future of the valley.
The March 30 showcase focused on IVC’s specialized training in Plant Operations, Chemical Technology, Instrumentation Technology, and Industrial Automation. It was designed as more than just a demonstration of equipment by serving as a bridge between the classroom and the career field.
IVC’s educational pathway is also expanding to bring new opportunities to the Valley. While students can currently earn a LIFT Program Certificate or an Associate Degree in Industrial Automation Technology, IVC recently announced it will launch a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Automation in 2027.
“This event provided a valuable space for collaboration and dialogue with panels featuring students, faculty, and industry leaders who shared insights on career pathways, training alignment and opportunities for partnership, internships and employment,” said April Mazón, Ed.D., Interim Program Manager for LIFT the Valley.
During the student panel, participants included Plant Operator students Juan Gallardo and Rose Fernandez, who discussed how the LIFT curriculum transforms theoretical knowledge into professional confidence. Students emphasized that the combination of lab-based learning, field trips, and internships is what truly helps bridge the gap between textbook concepts and real-world industrial applications.
Faculty members echoed this sentiment, noting that the LIFT curriculum is industry-driven and continuously updated based on direct feedback from employers. Students currently train on modern equipment they will encounter on the job, including process control systems, instrumentation tools and pumps along with preparing to secure Industry-recognized certifications.
Representatives from BHE Renewables and CalEnergy participated in an Industry Panel to discuss the surging demand for plant operators and lab technicians. While technical skills are a baseline, industry leaders stressed that “soft skills” are often the deciding factor in hiring.
Panelists identified interview readiness as a critical area for student growth, urging candidates to focus on professional communication and researching company projects before applying. To facilitate deeper learning, industry partners recommended shifting toward longer internship models to allow students more hands-on experience within complex safety protocols.
The showcase also highlighted the progress of the Industrial Training and Assessment Center at IVC. As part of a national network, the center supports local small and medium-sized manufacturers with energy efficiency and process improvement solutions while giving students applied learning opportunities.
To ensure these opportunities are equitable, IVC has integrated Vocational English as a Second Language support. These courses are designed to help English learners master workplace communication and professional writing, ensuring the valley’s technical careers are accessible to all.
Dr. Mazón noted the college remains “excited to share... the strength of our workforce training programs” as they continue to lift the regional economy into a new era of industrial excellence.
LIFT programs are part of the Lithium Industry Force Training initiative, a nationally recognized model supported by the U.S. Department of Energy. It prepares students for careers in lithium extraction as well as geothermal energy, and advanced manufacturing.