Program wins to date
68
companies identified key job competencies
57
regional EDUs named Verified Programs
10
talent demand reports published
175+
companies host paid interns
employer working groups
Each year, EDC convenes a diverse group of regional employers to address and communicate shared workforce needs. Through a data-driven, employer-led process, Employer Working Groups assess anticipated demand for critical jobs and map relevant skills and competencies to share with local training programs. This collaborative effort aims to effectively communicate overall demand trends and bolster the local pipeline of talent in San Diego, connecting employers with high-quality sources of talent. Insight from these working groups will be used to inform regional workforce development investments.
Participating companies are asked to identify one talent acquisition leader and one subject matter expert or hiring manager to attend meetings and complete two surveys over the course of three to six months.
In 2025, EDC will host Employer Working Groups focused on healthcare-related roles and is open to companies/institutions in San Diego County.
If you are interested in lending your insights, contact:
Taylor Dunne
Director, Talent Initiatives
Talent Demand Reports
The culmination of the information collected in Employer Working Groups is published in the form of EDC’s Talent Demand Reports. While data is aggregated and anonymized to protect the competitiveness of participating companies, the information shared in these reports is valuable for:
- Companies looking to understand how their needs compare to peers in the industry.
- Educators and training programs looking to update curriculum in alignment with regional industry needs.
- Job seekers and career counselors looking to understand hiring trends.
Engineering and Manufacturing
Computing
Healthcare
Life Sciences
Business
Life Sciences
Verified Programs
Verified Programs (formerly referred to as ‘Preferred Providers’) are recognized by employers for offering high-quality training suited to the most in-demand jobs across San Diego County. These education providers also have a track record of proven accessibility for San Diego students.
Every year, education programs with relevant curricula have the opportunity to apply for status as a Verified Program. The application is a combination of written and presented assessments where employers ‘grade’ program performance in five key areas:
- Technical skills: How well the curriculum addresses the technical skills necessary for entry-level roles.
- Employability skills: The program’s efforts to cultivate critical employability skills in students.
- Industry engagement: The extent of ongoing interaction between the program and the industry.
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion: The program’s track record of recruiting and serving a student body that reflects the population of San Diego, which is more than 50 percent people of color.
- Collaborative history: The program’s past collaborations with industry, local community organizations, and the Advancing San Diego program.
By upholding these rigorous standards, Verified Programs ensure consistent delivery of education that aligns with job market demands, and receive priority referral in EDC’s work with industry and talent.
Interested programs who have not previously been designated can apply now through September 26. Email Taylor Dunne for a unique application link. Recognized programs do not need to reapply to maintain their status.
Current Verified Programs can leverage the toolkit below to recognize their Advancing San Diego verification status.
Apply to be a Verified Program
Verified Programs marketing toolkit
MEET THE advancing san diego VERIFIED PROGRAMS
Below, explore the different industry tabs and program logos to learn more. If you would like to get in touch with a program, contact our team.
Able-Disabled Advocacy
Able-Disabled advocacy provides vocational skills training and educational advancement for youth, military veterans, adults with disabilities and others seeking employment. Able-Disabled Advocacy is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
This CompTIA certified academy and Cybersecurity Training Program received verification in entry-level IT support, informational security analyst, network and system administrators. It offers free comprehensive training in Information Technology, helping clients to upscale their skills toward a career in Tech.
California Institute of Applied Technology (CIAT)
California Institute of Applied Technology (CIAT) is a technical, vocational college, helping students transition into the workforce with the skills needed to succeed. Students utilize their training and developed skills to join companies across multiple sectors including government, retail, medical, hospitality, and more.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
California Institute of Applied Technology (CIAT) has received Advancing San Diego Verified Program status for their Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems and Associate’s of Applied Science in Business Data Analytics Programs. These programs equip students with the skills needed for entry-level IT support and software development roles.
California State University San Marcos
California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) serves 17,000 students in north county San Diego, the majority of whom are from San Diego. A designated Hispanic Service Institution, CSUSM is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing, engineering, and business.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Engineering Talent
Computing Talent
CSUSM is recognized as a Verified Program of computing for providing quality training for entry-level software developers, IT support technicians, network and systems administrators, and information security analysts. Their Computer Science and Information Systems program consists of four different bachelor’s degrees, three certification programs, two master’s degree, and one minor all offering a key mix of innovative computer science courses.
Engineering Talent
CSUSM’s Physics and Electrical Engineering program is verified for preparing students to fill entry-level roles as assemblers, engineering technicians, or general engineers. This department offers a bachelor’s degree that teaches techniques, skills, and modern tools necessary for a career in electrical engineering.
Business Talent
CSUSM is recognized as a Verified Program of business talent for providing quality training for entry-level internal-facing and accounting, bookkeeping and auditing business roles. The College of Business Administration at California State University San Marcos offers leading bachelor’s programs, which are shaped by market-driven curriculum and world-class faculty. Its Professional Mentoring Program is improving the professional and soft skill development areas that area employers have identified as a critical need. In addition, the college has established a new mandatory Business Professional Development Program for sophomores and transfer students, guided by volunteer Executives in Residence.
Center for Employment Training
CET’s job training programs teach marketable skills to people of all educational levels and backgrounds, even if there are barriers to overcome. In addition to teaching trade skills in growing fields, we provide supportive services and job placement assistance. The Center for Employment Training is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of healthcare talent.
Verified Programs
- Healthcare Talent
Healthcare Talent
Through the Medical Assistant Program, the Center for Employment Training provides hands-on healthcare job training program, provides students with the skills they need to start their career as a medical assistant. Learning in work setting, such as, perform administrative and clinical duties, including taking and recording vital signs and medical histories, drawing blood, scheduling, and preparing patients for examination.
Concorde Career College
Concorde Career Colleges, Inc. prepares America’s next generation of health care and dental professionals through career-focused, hands-on training, and teaching. Concorde incorporated in 1988, many of their campuses have been serving their local communities for 50+ years. The Concorde Career Colleges is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of healthcare talent.
Verified Programs
- Healthcare Talent
Healthcare Talent
The Medical Assistant program at Concorde Career College prepares students for a diploma with hands-on classes and externships that teach you skills such as scheduling and receiving patients, preparing and maintaining medical records, infection control and much more. The Medical Assistant program is offered at all 16 Concorde campuses.
Cuyamaca College
Cuyamaca College, located in Rancho San Diego, California, is a publicly funded community college. It is affiliated with the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District and is part of the broader California Community Colleges System. Together with Grossmont College, Cuyamaca College caters to the educational needs of the eastern suburbs within the San Diego region. Cuyamaca College is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
The Computer and Information Science department prepares students to be entry-level software developers, IT support technicians, network and systems administrators, and information security analysts through its offerings of internal and external certificates, associates degrees, and associate degrees for transfer.
General Assembly
Since 2011, General Assembly has assisted over 100,000 alumni globally in initiating careers in the technology sector through their acclaimed tech bootcamps. Additionally, they have collaborated with numerous leading companies to establish inclusive and expandable pipelines for tech talent, including adaptable training to meet individual employer needs. General Assembly is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
Designed by industry experts, General Assembly’s Software Engineering bootcamp is verified to train entry-level software developers by teaching modern programming languages, frameworks, and tools to meet industry demand.
Grossmont College
Grossmont College is newly recognized by employers, and serves a diverse learning community, drawing primarily from suburban locations in East County San Diego, as well as surrounding neighborhoods and locations across the state, the nation, and over 50 countries worldwide. Grossmont College is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
The Computer Science and Information Systems program is verified to train entry-level software developers, IT support technicians, network and systems administrators, and information security analysts. It combines computer science and information systems, teaching students to work with and within company IT systems to solve operations issues.
Health Occupations Center
The Health Occupations Center is to provide affordable quality education for those interested in employment preparation, skill advancement, and/or personal fulfillment in health-related fields. Grossmont Adult Education is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The Health Occupation Center is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of healthcare talent.
Verified Programs
- Healthcare Talent
Healthcare Talent
Health Occupations Center is recognized as a Verified Program of Healthcare talent for providing quality training for entry level medical assistants. The Health Occupations Center’s Medical Assistant Program is designed to teach students clinical skills such as preparing the patient for exams, giving injections, and performing basic lab tests. As well as be cross trained in front office procedures, and 150 hours of required internship at the end of the course gives students hands-on experience in the field.
Imperial Valley College
Imperial Valley College (IVC), established in 1962, is a public community college situated in Imperial County, California, with an annual enrollment of approximately 7,000 students, its primary campus spanning 160 acres in the city of Imperial, complemented by additional campuses in El Centro and Brawley. Imperial Valley College is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
IVC’s Computer Information Technology, Networking, and Cybersecurity program was verified to properly train entry-level IT support technicians, network and systems administrators, and information security analysists. This program teaches skills such as application programming, networking, systems administration, system security, computer hardware and software, and operating systems.
MiraCosta College
MiraCosta College is a public community college serving 17,000 students in North County San Diego. MiraCosta is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing, business, healthcare, and life sciences.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Healthcare Talent
- Life Sciences Talent
Computing Talent
The MiraCosta’s Computer Science program is verified for training entry-level software developers. It offers a variety of specialized associate degrees and certificates, as well as one associate degree for transfer. Students in the program learn basic programming, data structures and architecture.
Business Talent
MiraCosta is recognized as a Verified Program of business talent at the general level for providing quality training for entry level business jobs and internships. Whether students are planning to transfer as a business major or obtain immediate workplace advancement, MiraCosta’s Business Administration program is poised to teach students the skills they need.
Healthcare Talent
MiraCosta is recognized as a Verified Program of Healthcare talent for providing quality training for medical assistant jobs. The Medical Assistant Program prepares students for employment as a medical assistant under the direction of a physician or registered nurse in a clinical or office setting. The curriculum is designed to provide training in administrative (front office) and clinical (back office medical assisting skills). Instruction is given in basic medical office procedures, assisting with examinations, laboratory procedures, electrocardiography, and patient advocacy.
Life Sciences Talent
MiraCosta College’s Research & Development (Certificate/AS) is designed to meet the increasing need for entry-level laboratory technicians. Technicians in this field must be proficient in the application of the scientific methodology to solve problems. They must learn and implement laboratory procedures and use specialized laboratory equipment. Competency in organizational, computational, and communication skills is required. This program is designed to give students the theoretical background and practical experience necessary to be a bench-level scientists in both academic and industrial settings. Graduates of this biotechnology program can expect to be employed in various capacities, including quality control, applied research, product development, analytical testing, and academic (basic) research.
MiraCosta College’s Biomanufacturing Bachelor’s Degree develops the skills, abilities, and knowledge students need to work in the unique environment of biological production. It emphasizes the applied, quantitative analysis of biomanufacturing process design and performance to prepare students for employment in technical or quality positions in the manufacturing sector of the biotechnology industry, which includes biotherapeutics, diagnostics, supplies and services, and industrial products. Students gain hands-on experience with laboratory-scale equipment for the genetic manipulation of cells, culture of microbial and mammalian cells, purification of proteins, and evaluation of products via assay design and deployment. Students also gain experience with Design of Experiments, as well as data trending.
MiraCosta College – Technology Career Institute
MiraCosta College’s Technology Career Institute (TCI) is part of MiraCosta College’s Community Education & Workforce Development department. It offers our local community members the opportunity to enhance their lives and careers with low cost, hassle-free classes, workshops and programs. MiraCosta TCI is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of engineering and manufacturing.
MiraCosta is also recognized as a Verified Program for Business programs, producing graduates with the skills needed to succeed in internal and external facing business roles.
Verified Programs
- Engineering Talent
- Manufacturing Talent
Engineering Talent
MiraCosta TCI’s Engineering Technician program is Verified to train entry-level engineering technicians. This 592-hour training program is 75 percent hands-on and trains students in the areas that companies have requested, including OSHA and LEAN certification along with industry exposure.
Manufacturing Talent
MiraCosta is recognized as a Verified Program of Manufacturing talent for providing quality training for entry-level engineering technician and machinist jobs. The Technology Career Institute’s Machinist Technology Program is designed to prepare students with skills to shape metal parts on machines such as lathes, grinders, drill presses, milling machines, and shapers.
The Engineering Technician Program integrates theory and application in mechanical, electrical and electronic systems, fluid power, automation, robotics and computer software. Students will experience an accelerated program designed to prepare them with the skill sets to qualify for immediate entry into positions with local industry.
National Foundation for Autism Research
Since 2015, NFARs signature vocational training programs have been providing comprehensive, autism-specific training for high-demand jobs of the 21st century. NFAR also partners with companies across a wide range of industries to open the doors to employment for more people with autism, and helps to ensure a higher probability of long-term employment success.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
The NFAR Cyber program is comprehensive vocational training program specifically designed to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum for entry-level jobs in cybersecurity, IT support, and systems and network administration. The program attracts and recruits’ individuals who have a strong interest in technical applications.
National University
Founded in 1971, National University is the second-largest private, nonprofit institution of higher learning in California and 12th-largest in the nation. It was among the first to recognize and focus on the unique needs of nontraditional learners. Its distinctive and intensive one-course-per-month format, multiple locations, and onsite and online programs enable students to complete graduate and undergraduate degrees in an accelerated time frame while maintaining family and work responsibilities. National University is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of business, computing, and engineering.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Engineering Talent
Engineering Talent
National University’s Electrical and Computer Engineering degree is verified for training entry-level general engineers. National University hosts the only 100 percent online ABET-accredited electrical and computer engineering program in the United States.
Business Talent
National University is recognized as a Verified Program of business talent at the general level for providing quality training for entry-level business jobs and internships. The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree prepares students for career opportunities and advancement in business and industry.
Computing Talent
National University’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program prepares students to become top security analysts, network defenders, and computer incident responders with coursework that gives them a comprehensive understanding of information technology management and security processes. Our curriculum is taught by expert faculty with real-world experience so you can gain the competencies needed in the field. Each course is only four weeks long and the program can be completed in a shorter time frame than a traditional bachelor’s degree.
Palomar College
Palomar College is a public two-year community college located in San Marcos, California. Palomar enrolls approximately 30,000 full-time and part-time students. At Palomar, students may choose from over 200 associate degree and certificate programs, complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree, or enjoy personal enrichment classes for lifelong learning. Palomar College is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of business, computing, and manufacturing.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Manufacturing Talent
Computing Talent
Palomar is recognized as a Verified Program of computing for providing quality training to entry level information security analysts through its A.S. Cybersecurity. The program focuses on fostering proficiency in computer, network, and application security to guarantee the safeguarding of enterprise computing and information systems infrastructure.
Palomar is also verified for educating entry level software developers in its Computer Science program. This department offers an associate degree and a certificate, both teaching design of algorithms, languages, hardware architectures, systems software, applications software, and tools.
Manufacturing Talent
Palomar is recognized as a Verified Program of manufacturing talent for providing quality training for entry level machinist jobs. The Machining Technology Program will provide a foundation of design and manufacturing skills using Computer-Aided Manufacturing software, programming CNC machinery using MasterCAM, and the setup and operations of CNC Lathes, CNC Mills, and 5-Axis CNC Mills. Upon completion of this program, students will be qualified for an entry-level position in Machining and Manufacturing.
Business Talent
Palomar College’s Business programs, including, Accounting, Business and Advertising, Marketing and Social Media are producing graduates who are ready to fill internal and external-facing business roles along with accounting bookkeeping and auditing entry-level positions. Program graduates can earn an associate of science, associates of business, or an associate’s degree for transfer. They can also stack additional certifications such as a bookkeeping certification.
Pima Medical Institute
Pima Medical Institute has proudly served the San Diego community at our San Marcos campus since 1998. The Pima Medical Institute is recognized by employers as a Verified Programs of healthcare talent.
Verified Programs
- Healthcare Talent
Healthcare Talent
Pima Medical Institute is recognized as a Verified Program of Healthcare talent for providing quality training for medical assistant jobs. The Medical Assisting Program provides students with knowledge of anatomy and physiology, routine laboratory procedures and patient care procedures commonly performed in medical offices. Pima Medical Institute prepares its students to begin their careers upon earning their medical assistant certificate.
Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is a Christian liberal arts institution serving 3,179 students in Point Loma. PLNU is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing, engineering, and life sciences.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
- Engineering Talent
- Life Sciences Talent
Computing Talent
Point Loma Nazarene University’s Computer Information Technology program is verified by employers for teaching entry-level IT support technicians and network and systems administrators. This hybrid bachelor’s degree program equips students with the skills required to link businesses and individuals with IT solutions in a practical manner.
PLNU’s Computer Science bachelor’s program in Cyber Security, Software Engineering, and Technical Applications are verified for teaching entry level software developers and network and systems administrators. These bachelor’s degree focused on software engineering teaches students about the functioning of computers, ranging from the fundamental hardware to the utilization of advanced application programs.
Engineering Talent
Point Loma Nazarene University’ Engineering degree is verified for training entry-level general engineers. Providing a general engineering education, this bachelor’s degree intertwines traditional and contemporary principles of physics, chemistry, and mathematics with engineering.
Life Sciences Talent
Point Loma Nazarene University’s Biology-Chemistry, B.S. combines the study of matter (chemistry) with the study of life (biology). This joint major between PLNU’s Biology Department and Chemistry Department is designed to study and understand life at the molecular level. Through courses in cell biology, organic chemistry, immunology, and more, as well as hands-on research labs, students work to uncover how chemical structures, reactions, and interactions affect living things. Students gain the foundation and skills to engage in scientific investigation and become prepared for work or research in industries like pharmacology, biotechnology, biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, and many others.
Poway Adult School
Established in 1965, Poway Adult School serves more than 10,000 students and 12,000 enrollees annually.
Our Mission
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
Business Talent
Poway Adult School has received Advancing San Diego Verified Program status for their Accounting Level I program. Students completing the program have the skills needed to succeed in accounting, bookkeeping, and auditing entry-level business roles.
San Diego City College
San Diego City College is a multicultural institution committed to providing open access to all who can benefit from instruction and to meeting the diverse and ever-changing educational, cultural, and economic needs of the urban core and surrounding communities of San Diego. City College is recognized as a Verified Program for computing and manufacturing talent.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
- Manufacturing Talent
Manufacturing Talent
City College is recognized as a Verified Program of manufacturing talent for providing quality training for entry level engineering technician and machinist jobs. The Manufacturing Engineering Technology (MFET) Program provides students the opportunity to acquire highly valued skills in an innovative, hands-on learning environment. The program features integrating experiences through which students participate in all aspects of a manufacturing enterprise, from materials and processes to safety, design, automation, maintenance, Six Sigma quality, and lean manufacturing.
The Machine Technology (MACT) Program prepares students for CNC machining and is also ideal for students who need to upgrade prior machine shop training to comply with the current needs of industry. This program provides students with hands-on learning using state-of-the-art equipment and latest software such as Mastercam.
Computing Talent
City College is recognized as a Verified program for their Cyber Defense & Analysis, Cybersecurity, and IT Management programs. They train students with the skills necessary for entry-level IT support and cybersecurity roles.
San Diego College of Continuing Education
San Diego College of Continuing Education (SDCCE) is the adult education division of the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD). As the largest provider of noncredit education in California, SDCCE’s mission is to provide accessible, equitable, and innovative quality education and career training to adult students. SDCCE has offered free career training and classes continuously for more than 100 years. SDCCE is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of business and computing.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
The College of Continuing Education, Information Technology department offers short, focused programs that result in certificates.
Employers designated the Desktop Technician Certificate as verified for training entry-level IT support technicians. This certificate program teaches the skills necessary to manage and secure computers and basic network infrastructures.
The Network Technician and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) programs are verified for training entry-level network and systems administrators. These are two different information technology certificate programs that elevate an individual’s skillset in systems and network administration.
It offers a Security Essentials program that is verified to train entry-level information security analysts. This is an 18 weeklong certificate program providing students with the knowledge and skills required to manage and secure network infrastructures.
Business Talent
The College of Continuing Education, Business, Accounting and Entrepreneurship department offers programs that prepare students for Internal and external-facing entry level business roles with program graduates earning internal and external certifications.
San Diego Futures Foundation
San Diego Futures Foundation (SDFF) is proud to offer interns seeking a career in the IT field the opportunity for hands-on training and certification preparation through their basic IT programs. The majority of our participants are referred to or are participants of the San Diego Workforce Partnership, Able-Disabled Advocacy, San Diego Continuing College of Education, and other potential pathways to prepare with SDFF for career success. SDFF is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of Computing.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
San Diego Futures Foundation is verified for training entry-level IT support technicians through its Basic Computer Refurbishing and Repair program. This program is intended to help each individual construct a knowledge base of the skills that are necessary to be a successful entry level IT technician and computer repair skills included in the CompTIA A+ exams.
San Diego Mesa College
Part of the San Diego community college district, San Diego Mesa College serves nearly 25,000 students in central San Diego. A designated Hispanic Service Institution, San Diego Mesa College is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing, business, and healthcare talent.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Healthcare Talent
Computing Talent
San Diego Mesa College’s Computer Information Science program is verified for training entry-level software developers. This program offers multiple certificates, two associate degrees, and an associate degree for transfer, all emphasizing work-based learning along with traditional learning.
Healthcare Talent
San Diego Mesa College is recognized as a Verified Program of Healthcare talent in the medical assistant specialization for providing quality training for healthcare internships. The Medical Assisting Program provides specialized training for employment in medical offices, clinics, hospitals, and other organizations requiring a background in medical office procedures. This program offers a certificate alongside an associate of science degree in Medical Assisting. Training courses ensure technical competence when assisting with exams, lab tests, injections, office bookkeeping, scheduling, maintaining records, and completing insurance forms.
Business Talent
The Business Department at San Diego Mesa College offers a variety of business courses leading to degrees in Business Administration, Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship, and Business Management. These programs are intended for students who wish to plan a program in preparation for a business occupational area of their choice. Flexible course selection is emphasized to enable students to achieve their specific educational, vocational, and personal goals.
San Diego Miramar College
San Diego Miramar College is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. They offer flexible schedules and certificates and degrees, or degrees for transfer in a variety of programs. Miramar college is being recognized as an Advancing San Diego Verified Program for Computing.
Verified Programs
- Computing Talent
Computing Talent
San Diego Miramar College is graduating students with the skills required to succeed in entry-level software development roles. They offer an associate of science, or associate’s degree for Transfer in Computer and Information Sciences.
San Diego State University
San Diego State University (SDSU) is San Diego’s oldest university and serves 33,870 students in central San Diego. A designated Hispanic Service Institution, SDSU is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of business, life sciences, computing, and engineering talent.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Engineering Talent
- Life Sciences Talent
Computing Talent
San Diego State University’s Computer Science program is verified for training entry-level software developers. This department provides a variety of minors, majors, and master’s programs in the field, all touching on essential skills in computer science including how to store and call upon information and mastery of programming languages.
SDSU’s Management Information Systems program is verified for training entry-level network and systems administrators. This program offers certificates, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence (AI), advanced analytics, cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), digital innovation, and transformation.
Business Talent
San Diego State is recognized as a Verified Program of business talent at the general level, in addition to the operations and engagement specializations for providing quality training for entry-level business jobs and internships. Students can earn the following credentials upon completion: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, General Business (BSBA), Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS), and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Marketing (BSBA).
Engineering Talent
San Diego State University’s Engineering department is verified for training entry-level general engineers. This department offers seven majors, one minor, and many master’s and joint-doctoral programs, all combining traditional engineering education with practical experience.
Life Sciences Talent
San Diego State University’s Biotechnology Certificate offers a rich variety of coursework in cellular and molecular biology, ecology, evolution, and related fields. In a typical semester, undergraduates have access to over 50 courses. Nearly all of these have class sizes less than 30 or have associated laboratory sections with less than 25 students. It has many laboratory and field-based courses compared with Biology departments at other institutions. Because of its emphasis on laboratory courses, hands-on activities, and research opportunities, its graduates are uniquely prepared for a career in biology.
Southwestern College
Southwestern College, the only public institution of higher education in southern San Diego County, provides services to a diverse community of students by providing a wide range of dynamic and high quality academic programs and comprehensive student services, including those offered through distance education. Southwestern College is recognized as a Verified Program of healthcare and engineering talent.
Verified Programs
- Engineering Talent
- Healthcare Talent
Engineering Talent
Southwestern College’s Engineering program is verified for training entry-level engineering technicians and general engineers. This program focuses on the application of scientific principles and knowledge of mathematics to create solutions for problems involving human, biological, and mechanical systems.
Healthcare Talent
Southwestern Community College is recognized as a Verified Program of Healthcare talent for providing quality training for medical assistant jobs. The Medical Assisting Program prepares students for careers through three certificates in specific areas of medical assisting, focused on administrative, clinical, and insurance training. This program also offers an Associate of Science Degree. After completion students are eligible to sit for the National Health career Association Allied Health certifications.
UC San Diego
UC San Diego is a globally recognized research university which serves nearly 40,000 students on the central coast of San Diego County. UC San Diego is recognized by employers as a Verified Program for business, computing, and engineering talent.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Engineering Talent
Computing Talent
UC San Diego’s Computer Science program, housed in the Jacob’s School of Engineering, is verified for training entry level network and systems administrators, software developers, and information security analysts. This program offers three specialized bachelor’s degree tracks along with one minor, introducing students to both traditional and cutting-edge topics in computer science.
Engineering Talent
UC San Diego’s Jacobs School of Engineering is verified for providing quality training for students to become entry-level general engineers and engineering technicians. This school offers a variety of engineering related degrees including those with a focus in structural, chemical, aerospace, electrical, and more in addition to several specialized masters and Ph.D. programs. The Jacobs School of Engineering is a top 9 engineering school in the nation, and all individual engineering departments rank in the top 20 of their field.
Business Talent
UC San Diego’s Rady School of Management is a verified program for equipping students to succeed in entry-level and beyond positions in business roles, including internal and external facing roles, as well as, accounting, bookkeeping and auditing. This program offers three undergraduate majors alongside seven minors. Additionally, it offers four Master programs and a Ph.D. in Business.
UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies
UC San Diego Extended Studies, the continuing education arm of UC San Diego, offers more than 4,700 courses and a wide range of certificates. UC San Diego Extended Studies is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of computing, engineering, and business.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
- Computing Talent
- Engineering Talent
Computing Talent
UC San Diego Extended Studies’ Cybersecurity program is verified for educating entry-level network and systems administrators and information security analysts. This bootcamp-style program adopts a multidisciplinary strategy to achieve expertise in IT, networking, and contemporary information security.
UC San Diego Extended Studies’ Linux System Administration certificate is verified for teaching entry-level IT support technicians and network and systems administrators. This specialized certificate teaches students to create and oversee Linux-based computing and infrastructure systems by offering innovative issue resolution, critical thinking, and advanced troubleshooting across a wide spectrum of secure computing systems and support tasks.
Engineering Talent
UC San Diego Extended Studies’ Embedded Engineering Systems certificate is verified for training entry-level general engineers. This professional certificate covers embedded systems hardware design, fundamental embedded C controller programming, embedded controller programming for real-time systems, and embedded real-time operating system (RTOS).
UC San Diego Extended Studies’ Systems Engineering certificate is verified for training entry-level general engineers. This professional certificate teaches students how to leverage integrating engineering disciplines to resolve intricate challenges.
Business Talent
UC San Diego Extension is recognized as a Verified Program of business talent at the general level, in addition to the operations and engagement specializations for providing quality training for entry level business jobs and internships. The following certificate programs were designated Professional Certificate in Project Management, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt program, Certificate in Supply Management, Professional Certificate in Marketing, and Professional Certificate in Business Management.
University of San Diego
University of San Diego (USD) is a private, catholic university serving 9,100 students through its central San Diego campus. USD is recognized by employers as a Verified Program of life sciences talent.
Verified Programs
- Life Sciences Talent
Life Sciences Talent
University of San Diego’s Biochemistry B.A. offers comprehensive approaches to the disciplines and immersion in the process of inquiry. Critical research opportunities and well-equipped labs with the latest instrumentation, such as a confocal microscope, NMR, well-equipped instrument labs, and facilities for organismal experiments prepare students for graduate and professional schools, the biotechnology industry, and teaching in STEM. Small class sizes, numerous required laboratory courses, and a capstone research project mean students are exposed to the authentic process of conducting scientific research. Biology and Biochemistry at USD engage students in real-world ethical, social and environmental issues that impact the life sciences
Vista Adult School
Vista Adult School proudly serves approximately 3,000 adults each year. Offering convenient schedules to fit the needs and lifestyles of adult learners, and welcoming students 18 years of age and older from throughout Southern California.
Vision: Vista Adult School is committed to providing an exemplary education designed to engage, inspire and empower all students to achieve their goals.
Mission Statement: Vista Adult School prepares all students with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve their career, academic and personal goals in a high quality and accessible learning environment.
Verified Programs
- Business Talent
Business Talent
Vista Adult School has received Advancing San Diego Verified Program status for the Bookkeeping and Accounting Technician training program, with graduates completing with the skills necessary to fill entry-level accounting, bookkeeping, and auditing roles. Studies include the business terminology, principles and process that occur in the accounting cycle for a proprietorship and corporation, as well as overview of QuickBooks.
Workshops for Warriors
Workshops for Warriors is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit school that provides veterans and transitioning service members with industry-leading advanced manufacturing education and job placement assistance.
Verified Programs
- Manufacturing Talent
Manufacturing Talent
Workshops for Warriors is recognized as a Verified Program of manufacturing talent for providing quality training for entry level machinist jobs. The CNC Machining Program is designed to prepare veterans, transitioning service members, and other students to become well-rounded entry level CNC machinists with upward mobility potential. The curriculum is a combination of machining theory and extensive hands-on training. College credit is not awarded for this program, rather it is designed as an accelerated program of study culminating in industry recognized advanced manufacturing credentials which test the retention and application of the skills needed for a career in machining.
A Parent’s guide to san diego schools
For the first year ever, Voice of San Diego collaborated with EDC to include a new distinction in its widely read ‘A Parent’s Guide to San Diego Schools.’ The Labor Market Score for Career Technical Education (CTE) Programs is intended to give a sense of the labor market potential a given school’s programs offer. In a featured article, EDC’s Director of Talent Initiatives Taylor Dunne emphasizes the growing role of Career Technical Education (CTE) in preparing students for high-demand, quality jobs to strengthen the region’s talent pipeline.
Publicly funded education programs
Advancing San Diego is proud to partner with the Grossmont-Cuyamaca College Foundation and others on the Border Region Talent Pipeline K-16 Collaborative to support publicly-funded higher education programs. San Diego’s California State Universities, University of California campus, and community colleges are eligible to receive additional resources for curriculum alignment is pursuit of Verified Program status. If interested in learning more about these resources, please contact Heather Cavazos or visit the K-16 website.
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Taylor Dunne
Director, Talent Initiatives