High-speed rail training center boosts jobs and skills in California's Central Valley

The Central Valley Training Center, opened in 2020, has trained 223 students for jobs related to California's high-speed rail project. The program aims to provide skills to local residents, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and has created 14,000 construction jobs. Despite skepticism about the high-speed rail, the project has generated $18 billion in economic output. Local officials view it as a chance to connect the Central Valley to larger economies and improve job opportunities in a region historically affected by poverty. Graduates of the training program have found success in various trades, with over 70% securing jobs related to their training. The center focuses on hands-on learning and offers support to graduates in their job search.