Imperial County announces new lithium training program

The program is set to begin in Fall 2023 and aims to provide employment opportunities to the Valley

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - The Lithium Industry Force Training (LIFT) program is aimed to equip the local workforce with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the geothermal energy and mineral extraction industries.

Imperial Valley College (IVC), the County of Imperial, and representatives from EnergySource Minerals, BHE Renewables, and Controlled Thermal Resources announced the program on Wednesday, May 24.

As Lithium Valley continues to grow and develop, the LIFT program will help give the Imperial County community employment opportunities.

There is a growing need for a skilled workforce to work in the geothermal energy and mineral extraction industries and this program can help with training.

Priscilla Lopez, Imperial County Director of Workforce and Economic Development says it's focused on giving job seekers and local business owners tools they need to succeed.

"We want to make sure that our community is trained and ready for all these industries that are coming into the county through lithium," says Lopez. "We want to make sure they have a good skill set, that they understand what they are getting themselves into, and more than anything to see that future ahead of them."

The LIFT program will offer one-year short-term certificate programs and be lithium focused but will also be applicable to other industrial applications.

Students will be able to access state-of-the-art equipment, hands-on training, and internships.

Such programs provided include Plant Operator, Instrumentation Technician, and Chemical Lab Technician; and are connected to Smart Automation Certification Alliance and National Coalition of Certification Centers industry certifications.

"They'll be learning electronic components, machinery, rules and regulations, all of that good stuff," explains Lopez. "And there's always little components that are particular to the industry, which is what makes it industry recognized."

IVC faculty members who are experienced in geothermal energy and mineral extraction will lead the program.

The Instrumentation and Chemical Lab Technician Programs will begin in Fall 2024.

"We're going to be able to see good paying jobs, companies that are responsible and that are going to offer long-term employment to our local residents. Training and they'll be able to grow with this industry, which is great," says Lopez.

If you would like more information about the LIFT program, you can visit HERE. And for information about Lithium Valley, you can visit HERE.