GRID IE, CET, and Southern California Mountains Foundation Staff. Erik Rodriguez Cerda - Workforce Programs Coordinator (back), Christian Inzunza, Director of Development & Permitting at Dynamic Energy, and GRID IE Board member (blue shirt), and Cindy Corrales - Workforce Development Director (right)
GRID IE in partnership with the Center for Employment Training (CET) and the Southern California Mountains Foundation, hosted a successful Workforce Information Session at the Coachella Library on August 21, 2025. The event connected residents with opportunities to explore careers in clean energy, conservation, and the skilled trades, while highlighting the resources available through the Coachella Prospera program.
Community turnout was excellent, reflecting the strong local interest in workforce training and clean energy programs. GRID IE Board member Christian Inzunza, a Coachella Valley resident and active professional in the clean energy industry, also attended to show support for expanding these opportunities in the community.
“The Coachella Valley is full of talent and potential,” said Christian Inzunza, Director of Development & Permitting at Dynamic Energy, and GRID IE Board member, “Clean energy infrastructure and workforce programs like Coachella Prospera are vital for building a sustainable future while creating good local careers. I’m proud to support efforts that bring these opportunities directly to our community.”
The event featured:
- GRID IE, sharing solar installation training and clean energy career pathways.
- CET, a nationally recognized vocational training provider, which offers hands-on programs in skilled trades and essential job readiness skills to help residents build lasting careers.
- Southern California Mountains Foundation, which engages people in environmental stewardship and conservation projects that both protect natural resources and create jobs in sustainable outdoor industries.
This collaboration is part of Coachella Prospera, a Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) initiative that invests in community-led solutions to climate change in the City of Coachella. Coachella Prospera brings together residents, nonprofits, and local institutions to deliver projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while creating economic, environmental, and health benefits for disadvantaged communities. From solar installations and energy-efficiency upgrades to green job training and conservation projects, Coachella Prospera is designed to ensure that Coachella residents directly shape and benefit from the clean energy transition.
For many residents, the library session opened new doors. One participant at the event shared:
“I’ve applied for solar on my home, and I’m hoping to join the workforce training program here in Coachella." said Victor, Coachella resident. "I’ve gained experience with electrical work from setting up stages and lighting at the music festivals, and I’m excited to build on that background with skills that could lead to a career in clean energy.”
GRID IE is always inspired by the engagement and enthusiasm shown by Coachella residents. Events like these demonstrate the power of collaboration between partners and the community, and how the Coachella Prospera program is opening doors to both clean energy savings and meaningful career pathways.