Palmdale, CA – A new training program is underway in the Antelope Valley.
The program is preparing job seekers for some of the thousands of positions that will be filled by Northrup Grumman in the coming years.
The company was awarded a multibillion dollar contract in October 2015 to create a new bomber, creating demand for many local technicians.
The new training program was made possible through a partnership between Northrup Grumman, the City of Palmdale, the South Valley Worksource Center, Antelope Valley College, and Goodwill.
Students accepted into the program spend 16 weeks in accelerated courses, learning about the structure of planes and how they work.
After graduation, students are invited to apply to work as a technician with Northrup Grumman.
Of the first 25 graduates, 19 have already been offered positions.
Steve Lockett is a recent graduate who begins work May 31st. He says the course boosted his confidence and is pushing him to be better. “"It’s a wonderful opportunity not only because we get to get a job afterwards, but also we have some momentum to finish school and get that associates or bachelors,” says Lockett.
Job seekers of all backgrounds are welcome to apply.
The next class will start in August. The screening process for that class will begin in the coming weeks. Job seekers are urged to contact the South Valley Worksource Center immediately at 661-265-7421 to begin the screening process.
Books, fees, and tuition costs approximately $1300. Many scholarships and grants will be offered to students in the upcoming class.