SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - San Diegans looking to switch careers or get back to work after coronavirus-caused layoffs have a way to get free job training this summer.
San Diego Continuing Education is offering free classes in 75 different areas, many of which are focused on high-demand jobs.
"During difficult economic times that we are about to enter, short term intensive career education is the way to get America back to work," said SDCE President Dr. Carlos Turner Cortez.
Anyone in San Diego is eligible to take the classes. SDCE offers training certificates in healthcare, welding, information technology, cybersecurity, culinary arts, clothing, automotives, and more.
For Richard Sanchez, who lost his job during the pandemic, it's a chance to start over after a layoff.
"I'm already 38 years old," Sanchez said. "To have this opportunity helps people out to get a new job and change your career."
According to a recent report by SANDAG, around 460,000 people in San Diego have lost their jobs since March 7. The report says unemployment could be as high as 30%.
Dr. Cortez said people who are looking for a job should look into continuing education first.
"It's incumbent on us to make sure that students who are coming through our program are developing the skills necessary to be successful in these career pathways," he said.
Classes begin on June 8. The summer session runs through August 22. In many cases, students can get a certificate in as little as 5-10 months.
For more information, go to www.sdce.edu.
