By: Donna Duperron
As I entered the Southern California Regional Occupational Center (SoCal ROC) administration building, I was walking into an office that I was no stranger to. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with SoCal Roc on many programs and activities which benefit high school students and adults.
This visit, however, was different than those of the past. Today, I was meeting with Dr. Julian Rodriguez, Superintendent of SoCal Roc. Dr. Rodriguez assumed the superintendent position on July 1, 2023. Since that time, he has been meeting with cabinet members, employers, students, and community members to listen, to explore partnership possibilities and to learn how to adapt class offerings at SoCal Roc to meet the needs of a changing workforce.
Dr. Rodriguez’s career in public education spans 20 years as a classroom teacher, site administrator, and district office administrator. Since 2022, he has also served as an Adjunct Professor and curriculum writer for the Riverside Office of Education’s CET Teacher Credentialing Program. Dr. Rodriguez’s commitment to high-quality CTE programs was shaped by his own experience as an adult CTE student.
“I am most excited about the future and the opportunities that the future presents. We want to prepare both adults and high school students for opportunities that are around their corners. Our instructors are committed and care about the success of our programs, which ensures that SoCal Roc is the premier provider of Technical Education in the South Bay,’ exclaimed Dr. Rodriguez.
SoCal Roc is part of the California public school system that provides Career Technical Education opportunities for high school and adult students. SoCal ROC offers more than 50 different courses, each part of a sequential pathway, approved by the California Department of Education. SoCal Roc course offerings include art and design, engineering and design health sciences and public and consumer services. All instructors possess a valid California Teaching Credential in Designated Subjects.
Courses are open to high school students, grades 9-12 and adults interested in retraining, moving up in their career, or changing careers. High School students attending schools in El Segundo USD, Inglewood USD, Manhattan Beach USD, Palos Verdes Peninsula USD, Redondo Beach USD, and Torrance USD can attend free of charge and if needed can be provided transportation to our facility. However, any high school student regardless of geographic residence may enroll at the Center.
“One of the most popular courses offered is the School of Engineering and Design which offers affordable, hands-on, and project-based programs designed to develop qualified candidates for high-demand jobs in the engineering sector. Featured programs provide industry-standard facilities and equipment and consist of Automotive, General Electrician, HVAC, and Welding. Other popular course offerings include dental and medical patient care and cosmetology,” explained Rodriguez.
The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce extends appreciation to SoCal Roc for being a longtime chamber member and wishes Dr. Rodriguez much success in his new role. For further information on SoCal Roc, please visit www.socalroc.com