A group of 20 recent immigrants to the Sacramento region were the first graduates of a unique state-funded program preparing them for jobs working with electric vehicles.

The “Ideal Zev” program will train 100 Sacramento residents to work in the fast-growing clean vehicle industry. 

Funded by the California Energy Commission, the program involves several nonprofits, led by the Community Resource Project. 

“The challenges of this program are many, including language barriers, trainer availability, translators, trust, transportation, childcare, and job placement, to name a few,” said Luis Sanchez, CEO of Community Resource Project. “Nevertheless, we have successfully provided the training using both virtual reality and hands-on instruction,” 

The first graduating class of this unique pilot program was awarded certificates and will now receive job placement assistance. The first class was populated with recent immigrants from Afghanistan and Russia. The second-class group, which is also underway, targets women.

Clean Start is spearheading participant recruitment. Click here for more information. 

The program starts with classroom instruction and hands-on training at the California Mobility Center (CMC). 

The instruction uses a cutting-edge approach that leverages virtual reality apps developed by Aura Planning to simulate electric vehicle exploration, EV battery replacement, installing EV chargers, and high-voltage safety training. 

Once students complete the classroom training, they move on to the CMC’s hands-on training, working on actual electric vehicles and equipment offered at their site. Together, both models enhance understanding and the opportunities available for entry-level careers.

The program was funded by a $500,000 IDEAL ZEV (Inclusive, Diverse, Equitable, Accessible Zero Emission Vehicle) grant from the California Energy Commission.