(July 28, 2025) MARYSVILLE, Calif. – Yuba College has been awarded a $300,000 Fire and Forestry Pathway Grant to strengthen the region’s workforce in wildland fire response and forest management.
The funding, awarded in June 2025 and running through June 2028, will support the expansion of the college’s Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. Key areas of focus include increasing enrollment in basic wildland fire training, watershed courses and the Forest Management Resilience Certificate program.
The grant will enable Yuba College to develop new courses that address the growing need for skilled professionals in fire prevention, suppression and forest health. Topics will include fire behavior, suppression tactics, forest ecology, fuels management and climate resilience. The courses will complement existing curriculum and provide hands-on, industry-relevant training designed to prepare students for immediate employment in high-demand fields.
The initiative will also support outreach efforts aimed at attracting new students, especially those from underrepresented populations, while funding instructional equipment, materials and faculty development. In addition, the grant will help Yuba College create or expand regional partnerships with other colleges, employers,The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and related agencies. These collaborations will support broader efforts to build comprehensive workforce training pathways and increase the number of learners advancing into fire and forestry careers.
“This grant is a significant investment in our students and our community,” said Yuba College Dean of Career Technical Education and Workforce Development, Dr. W. Alan Dixon, Sr. “By expanding our fire and forestry programs, we’re not only helping students build meaningful careers, but also contributing to the safety and sustainability of our region’s natural resources.”
Yuba College’s efforts align with California’s goals to enhance wildfire preparedness and forest resilience through education and workforce development. The college remains committed to leading the way in preparing the next generation of fire and forestry professionals.
For more information about the Forest Management Resilience Certificate and upcoming course offerings, visit www.yubacollege.edu or contact the Career Technical Education office at (530) 741-6700.
About Yuba College
Yuba College is committed to providing equitable student learning and success. We offer degree and certificate programs leading to career and transfer opportunities for our diverse communities. It is our vision to provide innovative and student-centered educational opportunities and services that are equitable and that empower students to become transformative and productive members of our communities.