The vital role of workforce training in our community






At MiraCosta College, we are dedicated to meeting the needs of our region’s employers while providing meaningful educational opportunities for students of all ages. Our Community Education and Workforce Development programs play a crucial role in aligning education with industry demands, ensuring individuals and businesses can thrive in a rapidly changing world.

A key part of our workforce training initiatives is the Technology Career Institute (TCI) in Carlsbad, which exemplifies how education can meet the needs of local industries. Founded in 2013 and opening its doors in 2015, TCI offers hands-on, accelerated training in fields where employers face skill gaps.



From electronics and robotics to manufacturing and HVAC, TCI works closely with local businesses to develop programs tailored to the specific skills they require. One of the newest additions to TCI’s offerings is the Biomedical Device Technician Program, which addresses the growing need for highly skilled technicians in the booming medical device industry. This program equips students with the skills required to maintain and repair medical devices, ensuring they are prepared to meet the demands of healthcare providers and manufacturers alike.

By collaborating with local employers, such as Creative Electron in San Marcos, we are able to design programs that equip students with the most in-demand skills. This partnership has been highly successful, with over 60% of Creative Electron’s hires being job-ready TCI graduates who have applied real-world skills during their training. The result is a reliable pipeline of qualified candidates for local businesses. TCI’s immersive programs teach technical skills and develop critical soft skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and communication—skills employers highly value. Classes are structured to mirror the workplace, with students clocking in and out and receiving continuous feedback to ensure they meet industry standards. As a result, 93% of graduates secure employment after completing the program.

Thanks to generous support from organizations like the Lowe’s Foundation, which donated $500,000 in 2024 to fund new electrician and HVAC programs, TCI continues to grow and stay ahead of industry trends. Since its founding, TCI has received more than $13 million in grants, enabling it to expand and better serve the community. In addition to our workforce training programs, Community Education provides a wide range of non-credit courses designed to foster personal growth and enhance professional skills. These programs are available to individuals at every stage of life, offering opportunities for those looking to expand their knowledge or explore new career paths.

Whether through leadership development, personal finance workshops, or digital skills training, our Community Education offerings empower learners to gain valuable skills in a supportive and flexible environment. Building on this commitment to accessible education, we’re also excited to bring back College for Kids this summer. These weeklong camps for children aged 6-16, held at our Oceanside Campus, offer a variety of fun and educational experiences— from veterinary programs and comics/cartooning to culinary classes, wilderness skills, and science experiments. With such a broad range of subjects, there’s something for every young learner.

At MiraCosta College, we understand that education must be relevant, timely, and responsive to the needs of both students and employers. Our Community Education and Workforce Development programs, including TCI and the Biomedical Device Technician Program, exemplify how workforce training can drive economic growth, create opportunities, and meet the needs of local businesses. As we continue to grow, I look forward to how TCI and our other workforce development programs will evolve and contribute to building a strong, skilled workforce for the future. Whether you are a young learner or an adult seeking career training, MiraCosta College is here to help.