The Almanor Foundation reports that after focusing on housing for the past three years, it will turn its attention to workforce development with emphasis on career and technical education. “As a small but dedicated board, we know we can’t solve every challenge our region faces — but we can lean in where we’re needed most,” said TAF. “That’s why our next initiative will focus on something equally vital to our community’s future.”

What is CTE?

Career and technical education prepares students for high-wage, high-growth careers through hands-on learning, industry-aligned training and real-world experience, said TAF. “From health care to hospitality, agriculture to digital media, CTE equips learners with the skills they need to thrive — and helps rural economies like ours stay relevant and resilient.”

Why now?

California’s community colleges, with leadership from the Chancellor’s Office, are investing in proven workforce training models that prioritize access, inclusion and employer engagement. These investments aim to

  • Expand “learn and earn” programs like internships and apprenticeships
  • Partner with community-based organizations — like TAF — to provide wraparound support
  • Recognize prior learning, such as military experience, for college credit
  • Teach 21st century digital skills and literacy
  • Make data-informed regional investments in priority sectors

Priority industry sectors 

Priority industry sectors are defined as specific industry groups that are vital for the state’s economic growth and workforce development. These designations are used to target investment, training funds and support programs to foster growth and job creation in key areas. For Plumas County, priority industry sectors include

  • Agriculture
  • Business and entrepreneurship
  • Health care
  • Information and communications technology, digital media
  • Retail, hospitality and tourism

How does TAF fit in?

TAF reports that the group is in the early stages of listening, learning and exploring how to support this work. In October, TAF directors toured Chester Junior-Senior High School’s CTE programs in health (dental assisting), graphic design and agricultural welding. Directors were joined by K14 Strong Workforce pathway coordinators for the Far North Region Lisa Kelly, who serves Plumas County, and Kaitlyn Thorne, who serves Lassen County. Kelly is also a TAF director (see below). Rachel Molsee, CTE manager for Plumas Unified School District, joined the group as well. 

Rachel Molsee, left, career technical education manager for Plumas Unified School District, shares details of the agricultural welding program at Chester Junior-Senior High School with Lisa Kelly, The Almanor Foundation director and local K14 Strong Workforce pathway coordinator.

TAF said additional tours are planned at high schools and charter schools in both Lassen and Plumas counties, as well as at Feather River College and Lassen Community College. These visits will help identify CTE programs designed to launch students into living-wage careers — whether through community college, certification programs or directly after high school.

“By identifying the existing programs and partnerships that are already preparing our emerging workforce, TAF can offer targeted support in a multitude of capacities: mentorship, work-based learning opportunities, advisory committees and other collaborative efforts,” said organizers.

TAF reiterates its commitment to becoming a collaborative partner in this effort — supporting the educators, coordinators and employers who are opening doors for youth and young adults across the county. “Because when we invest in opportunity, we invest in the future of Plumas County,” said TAF. “Together, we can keep our communities alive and well.”

Lisa Kelly

Lisa Kelly

TAF directors announce that Lisa Kelly has joined the board, bringing an extensive background and experience in education to the role of foundation liaison for the CTE initiative.

“I have been following the foundation since they started and am so impressed with their commitment and what they have accomplished, particularly with the workforce housing initiative,” said Kelly. “I am pleased to be a part of this organization that is making an impact in  Plumas County.”

TAF points out that Kelly is well-versed as an educator, administrator and community leader with a diverse background spanning higher education, K12 classroom proficiency, workforce development, hospitality management and nonprofit service. Kelly currently serves as a K14 Strong Workforce Program pathway coordinator for Feather River College and Lake Tahoe Community College districts, supporting schools in developing career-focused educational pathways that lead to high-wage careers in priority industry sectors.

Beyond academia, Kelly also brings private-sector know-how, having owned and operated Moon’s Restaurant in Quincy and serving as general manager/director of sales and marketing for Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch. A dedicated community contributor, Kelly has held numerous board positions and has led or supported a wide range of regional initiatives, events and youth programs.

She holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction and a master’s degree in hospitality management from Purdue University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Humboldt State University. “Our board welcomes her enthusiasm and commitment to the foundation’s goals,” said TAF.

The Almanor Foundation also serves as the fiscal sponsor for The Plumas Sun.

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