On Thursday, Dec. 4, scholars of the LA Regional Cleantech Career Academy (Academy) celebrated their graduation at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, marking the completion of a transformative career-readiness journey. Fifty-seven students successfully completed the program, with 52 scholars in attendance to receive their certificates alongside peers, mentors and program leaders.

During the ceremony, students took center stage through a panel discussion reflecting on how the Academy prepared them for upcoming internships highlighting new technical skills, increased confidence and greater clarity about career pathways in the renewable energy sector. Scholars shared how the program strengthened their readiness for real-world work experiences and how the knowledge and exposure gained will carry forward into future roles, continued education and long-term career advancement.

The Academy centers student career awareness and hands-on exposure to high-growth, high-demand renewable energy careers, supporting economic mobility and equitable access to opportunities in California’s clean energy workforce.

Thank you to our special guest speakers:

• Tara Becnel, senior manager, Customer Operations, Southern California Edison and UNITE-LA board member
• Corey Matthews, vice president, Global Philanthropy, JPMorganChase
• Quintin Haynes, chief deputy director, Internal Services Department, County of Los Angeles
• Breonia Lindsey, assistant general manager, Customer and Community Equity Strategies, City of L.A. Department of Water & Power
• Denita Willoughby, founder and CEO, Big Energy Group, and former UNITE-LA board chair and member

To see photos from the event, visit our photo gallery from the night.