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Welcome to Imperial Valley College!

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.

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Lithium Industry Force Training

 

What is LIFT the Valley? 

LIFT the Valley is a one-year certificate program designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in exciting new career opportunities emerging in Imperial County.  With a focus on the developing Lithium Valley project, LIFT the Valley offers practical training in: 

  • Plant Operation: Learn to operate and monitor equipment in geothermal plants and mineral extraction facilities. (Available Now!) 
  • Chemical Lab Technician: Gain hands-on experience in laboratory testing and analysis related to lithium extraction and processing. (Available Now!) 
  • Instrumentation Technician: Develop expertise in maintaining and calibrating industrial instruments. (Coming Fall 2025!) 

 

 

How to Apply 

Follow these three easy steps to apply and Enroll at IVC!

Apply to IVC Here!

Choose one of the following options:

  • For new students: Click Create an Account.
  • For returning students: Click Sign In.
  • To retrieve account information: Click Forgot my password.
  • After signing in, select Start a New Application for the appropriate semester.

To meet with an Admissions Representative over Zoom between 2p.m. – 4p.m.
Contact Admissions & Records via Zoom

Within 2 hours of submitting your application, you will receive an email with your admission status and Student I.D. number (G#)

Having problems with your email or G#?

Contact usApplied but didn't get a G#

After you have applied & received a G # then you are ready to see a counselor!

Contact Maria Neely to Schedule a Counseling Appointment.
Maria Neely, CTE Counselor
maria.neely@imperial.edu | 760-355-6335

For program specific questions contact: Dr. April Mazon, Program Manager at april.mazon@imperial.edu | 760-355-5719

Chemical Lab Technician Program

 

Why Choose LIFT?

Fast-Track Your Career: Complete your certificate in just one year (two semesters) and be ready to join the workforce quickly. 

Hands-On Learning: Our program emphasizes practical skills through state-of-the-art equipment, lab exercises, and internship opportunities. 

Industry-Recognized Credentials: Earn certifications aligned with industry standards, such as SACA and NC3, making you a highly competitive candidate. 

Experienced Faculty: Learn from our dedicated instructors with expertise in geothermal and mineral extraction technologies. 

Local Focus, Global Impact: LIFT prepares you for rewarding careers in Imperial County's thriving Lithium Valley project, while also equipping you with transferable skills for broader opportunities. 

 


Ready to Take the First Step? 

  • Plant Operator Program: Registration is open now! Classes begin August 12th, 2024. 
  • Chemical Lab Technician Program: Registration is open now! Classes begin August 12th, 2024.  
  • Instrumentation Technician: Applications open Fall 2025. Stay tuned for updates! 

Contact Us Today! 

For more information about the LIFT program, please contact: 
Maria Neely, CTE Counselor: maria.neely@imperial.edu | 760-355-6335 
April Mazon, Program Manager: april.mazon@imperial.edu 
 
 

Join LIFT the Valley and become part of the future of Imperial Valley!

This program is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Manufacturing and Supply Chains. 

This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Manufacturing and Supply Chains (MESC) Award Number DE-MS0000049. 

This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States Government. Neither the United States Government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government or any agency thereof. 

Sign Our Interest Form To Learn More

 

Gain essential skills with our Plant Operator course, offering basic instruction in plant operations. This course covers critical areas including safety protocols (OSHA), environmental awareness (EPA), and distributed control systems. 
The Plant Operator Program is designed as a one-year short-term certificate program taking the following courses: 

 

Fall Winter Spring
BLDC 015 PLNT 085 CIS 120 OR CIS 124
CIS 120 OR CIS 124   PLNT 90
PLNT 080   WE 220
WT 105    

 

Enhance your scientific skills with our Chemical Lab Technician course, providing basic instruction in scientific methods. This course covers key aspects including hypothesis development, experimentation, and data interpretation. 

FALL COURSES - 9 Units 

CHEM 082 (4 units) WT 105 or Math 105 (3 units) CIS 124 (1 unit) WE 201 (1 unit) 

SPRING COURSES - 11 units 

CHEM 085 (4 units) WT 110 (4 units) BLDC 015 (1 unit) CIS 120 (1 unit) WE 220 (1 unit) 

Chemical Technician Press Classes Presentation 2024

 

 

Develop your technical expertise with our Instrumentation Technician course, offering basic instruction in connected field devices. This course covers essential topics including transmitters, valve actuators, and motor controls. More information coming soon!