Guest Opinion | Dr. Edward C. Ortell: American workers today: Following the trends, training for jobs

Labor Day was born out of the struggles of American workers in the late 19th century. While Labor Day celebrations of the 21st Century look very different from those of the 1890s, the underlying theme is the same: honoring workers and their vital contributions to our way of life.

In California, the news generated by a gubernatorial recall effort and the lingering effects of COVID-19 on the job market have focused new attention on the importance of jobs. Following the state’s July 2021 jobs report, Governor Newsom observed that California is leading the nation in job creation. At the same time, his critics noted that California is home to the country’s second-highest unemployment rate. 

Leaving it to the pundits to sort out the controversy, one thing is clear: California needs more people trained and ready to enter the labor market in high demand fields of the future. Fortunately, local community colleges are ready to provide that training. Here are three employment trends and three possibilities for training programs from Citrus College:

Working from Home – Those seeking jobs they can do from home will need to demonstrate their technical proficiencies. The Computer Information Systems Program includes microcomputer applications and computer support of business organizations. That includes state-of-the-art training in the use of business application software and hardware. 

Healthcare Professionals – These occupations have been critical during the pandemic, and they are expected to grow in demand as baby boomers age and retire. These include various Nursing Programs, Home Health Care, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Dental and others. 

Water Technology – All of California is currently in some level of drought, and about 33 percent of the state is in “exceptional drought.” As the drought continues, employment in water technology fields is projected to grow. Citrus College’s Water Technology Program prepares students for entry-level employment or advancement in the public water sector. Employment opportunities include specialist in water supply, water efficiency, program conservation, natural resources and environmental protection.

Workers in the late 1800s fought for reasonable hours and safer workplaces, as well as greater recognition, respect and compensation. The results of their efforts are enjoyed today by workers across the country. The U.S. Department of Labor’s tribute to workers states in part, “… (these efforts have) brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy.”

Dr. Edward C. Ortell is Professor Emeritus at Pasadena City College and a community college textbook author. He has served as the Executive Director of the Pasadena Education Association and as a member of the California Community College Trustees (CCCT) state board of directors.