CAREER PATHWAYS
What are Career Pathways? What are Career Pathways?
Message from President Pamela Ralston
I am thrilled that you have picked up our booklet to learn about Los Medanos College (LMC) and career pathways. Our courses are designed to lead you into a career you love, and one that will set you up for a lifetime of higher earnings. We are proud that students in programs featured here report an average 70% increase in wages – just two years after graduation!
LMC serves our community by providing high-quality, cutting-edge education and training. This year, we acquired a new fire truck for Fire Academy students to train on the same equipment they will use once they are in the field. We recently invested about $500,000 in our auto technology lab so students can learn to work on electrical and conventional vehicles, and we boast a one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art process technology lab for training future technicians to operate manufacturing, food processing, utility and other industrial plants.
Our Career & Technical Education Division delivers courses that prepare students with the training, experience, and professional knowledge to step into a job and quickly build a successful career. LMC collaborates with employers and industry experts to design courses aimed at giving students the competitive edge they need to enter high-demand and emerging jobs – whether you choose one of traditional programs, like Nursing or Welding, or new Drone Piloting program.
LMC offers courses for everyone – from first-time college students to working professionals seeking career advancement. Our programs lead to short-term certificates, two-year degrees, and transfer opportunities. We offer classes during the day, in the evening, online, and in person at the Pittsburg Campus and Brentwood Center. Our expert counselors will assist you with academic and career planning, financial aid, and scholarships, all to help you succeed. Full-time students can even attend tuition-free!
I look forward to welcoming you to LMC!
Pamela Ralston, Ph.D. President
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS @ LMC
Administration of Justice
The Administration of Justice Program prepares students for entry-level positions in criminal justice and for transfer to the California State Universities. There are three components in administration of justice: law enforcement, the court system and corrections. Our instructors, many of whom are current or retired law enforcement officers, bring real-world experience into the classroom as they instruct students in criminal investigation, criminal law, corrections and the American justice system.
Business
The Associate in Science in Business Administration for Transfer degree is designed for students desiring advanced degrees in business administration. The LMC business administration courses meet lower division transfer requirements for business degrees such as accounting, marketing, management, international business or finance. The curriculum includes the first-and second-year requirements for transfer to a four-year institution. LMC offers certificates in accounting, office administration, retail management and small business operations.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS @ LMC
automotive technology
At LMC, students receive hands-on instruction and in-depth state-of-the-art training in the rapidly evolving field of automotive technology, which includes: emission control, engine diagnosis, electrical and body communication, tune-up, brakes, suspension systems, and hybrid. The program maintains up-to-date, technologically advanced training equipment and facilities through the continued support of industry manufacturers and local dealers. This comprehensive training prepares students to become Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified auto service technicians.
Computer Science/Computer Networking
The Associate of Science in Computer Science for Transfer provides the foundational courses needed by the higherlevel courses offered at the CSUs. Enrolling and completing LMC’s program allows computer science majors to advance directly through the industry-recognized sequence of courses. Upon graduation, students can obtain highly successful jobs in engineering tech, computer networking, computer security, video game design, artificial intelligence, virtual reality and cyber security.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS @ LMC
Construction Pre-apprenticeship Noncredit
If you want to work with your hands, work outside, and work as part of a team, then a career in construction may be for you. The Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program uses the MultiCraft Core Curriculum (MC3) developed by North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU). You’ll learn the basics of several skilled trades and explore which you like best. During this 16-week program, you’ll receive 176 hours of classroom instruction and 96 hours of hands-on training in framing, electrical, plumbing, sheet metal, masonry, and blueprint reading. Graduates earn certification in MC3, OSHA-10 Safety for Construction, and First Aid/CPR, all of which can go on your resume. You’ll be qualified to work immediately for nonunion contractors or to pass union apprenticeship entrance exams. Noncredit programs have zero tuition fees and no grades.
Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education program prepares students to become early childhood educators, caregivers, and administrators of infant, preschool, school age, and special needs program. LMC’s accredited Child Study Center offers students hands-on learning, while providing a child care service to staff and students. An early childhood education major allows students the option of transferring to a four-year institution with a solid background in child development and early childhood education, in preparation for an Elementary Education Teaching Credential or a bachelor’s degree in child development.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS @ LMC
Drone Piloting Noncredit
The Basic Drone Piloting certificate prepares students to take and pass the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License exam, which is required to fly drones for commercial purposes. From day 1 of this 16-week program, you’ll be flying three levels of commercial drones. You’ll also learn the ethics and regulations for safe, effective piloting of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Learn to use photo, video, and infrared cameras for fun and profit, either as part of another job or as a career of its own. Noncredit programs have zero tuition fees and no grades.
POSSIBLE CAREERS:
Jordan Coats started taking classes at Los Medanos College in Automotive Technology and Computer Science. However, after taking a short break from school, he returned and decided to take an introductory Child Development course. Jordan was encouraged by his instructor to apply for an internship, which felt like the right path and led him to graduate from LMC with an associate in science degree in Early Childhood Education and a state-issued Master Teacher Certificate.
“You have a diverse group of students at LMC who are at various stages in life, and making connections is so valuable. LMC has an atmosphere that supports that.” – Jordan Coats www.losmedanos.edu/successtories
Are you ready to find your path and transform your life? Join Jordan and Get Started Today at Los Medanos College.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS @ LMC
Electrical/Instrumentation Technology
The electrical technician specialization is designed to train electricians to maintain complex electrical automation systems used in the manufacturing and power generation industry. The instrumentation technician specialization is designed to train instrument technicians to maintain the process measurement and control systems used in refineries, chemical plants, biotech plants, pharmaceutical plants, and water & wastewater treatment plants.
Fire Technology
Firefighting can be a rewarding career. You have an opportunity to serve your community and make a difference in people’s lives. The Fire Technology Program provides an education in fire protection, as well as fire prevention. LMC’s courses will help to prepare you for a future in the fire service. Completing this program can help you get a job in the forestry or conservation service, fire prevention, fire or building inspection, or as a fire investigator.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS @ LMC
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) LMC’s EMS Program is one of the highest quality programs in the East Bay. An emergency medical technician (EMT) is a professional health-care provider who renders emergency care to sick and injured patients. EMTs are trained at LMC to provide basic life support at the scene of an emergency, treat patients during transport, and monitor patients during inter-facility transfer within an organized EMS system. Completion of the one semester EMT course qualifies you to take the national certification exam administered by the National Registry of EMTs.
POSSIBLE CAREERS:
Dave Haynes, Jr. is a 2017 Los Medanos College alumnus who now works as a local firefighter and LMC assistant instructor. He initially explored the field of criminal justice, switched to EMT training, and then brought his interests together at the LMC Fire Academy. Haynes credits the program with preparing him to succeed in his job with Contra Costa County Fire.
Having the foundational skills and knowledge from the LMC college academy prior to stepping into the paid fire department helped me more than anything,” Haynes said. “I was already familiar with their way of doing things, with the equipment use – I was ready.”
– Dave Haynes, Jr. www.losmedanos.edu/careerfocus
Are you ready to find your path and transform your life? Join Dave and Get Started Today at Los Medanos College.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS
The study of graphic communications at LMC begins with thorough and rigorous training in the fundamentals. LMC’s foundation-level-courses – including art appreciation, 2D design, design drawing and photography – are designed to improve any skills you might already have, while providing you with the means to learn new skills and new ways to solve design and communication problems. Advanced-level courses offer focused instruction in design, layout, digital illustration and manipulation, and animation for print or online.
Nursing is a challenging and rewarding career for those seeking to make a difference in people’s lives. It requires good communication skills, critical thinking, decisionmaking, and knowledge of science technology. Nurses often work different shifts, including days, evenings, nights or per diem (on-call). LMC has programs for both Licensed Vocational Nursing and Registered Nursing.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS
Journalism
This two-year program of study can lead to an entry-level position with a community newspaper, or to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a journalism or communications major. The program provides practical training, leading to careers in print journalism, broadcasting, advertising and public relations. Students also have the opportunity to work on LMC’s newspaper, The Experience.
Technology
Process technicians are skilled plant operators who work for chemical, refining, oil and gas production/refining, power generation, water, waste management, food manufacturing and related manufacturing companies. The process technicians who run these plants work with stateof-the-art computer control systems, work outside taking process samples and monitoring the equipment, and solve problems in a team environment. No two days are exactly alike. LMC is the only college in Northern California to offer this program.
Career PATHWAYS @ LMC Career PATHWAYS @ LMC
RECORDING ARTS
There are many opportunities for the trained recording arts professional in the field of producing, sound reinforcement, independent audio engineering, forensic audio, hardware and software development, equipment maintenance and repair, bio-acoustic research, theatre sound, and many more. The industry has undergone a major paradigm shift in recent years. “Studio jobs” continue to exist, but major studios are becoming scarce. The current model calls for entrepreneurs and independent contractors, trained to operate in a more “freelance” environment.
Welding Technology
LMC’s program in welding technology offers instruction in the principles and practices of welding processes. Successful completion of the program provides sufficient training for entry level into the field of production-type welding. Students have access to the latest instructional and practical experiences in a spacious, modern shop facility. Courses range from basic to advanced welding of ferrous and non-ferrous metals on sheet metal, plate and pipe in all positions using the oxyacetylene, shielded-metal arc, gas-tungsten arc, gas-metal arc, and flux-corded arc welding processes.
POSSIBLE CAREERS:
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HIGHLIGHTED PROGRAMS OF STUDY HIGHLIGHTED PROGRAMS OF STUDY
PROGRAMS OF STUDY
Administration of Justice
Basic Law Enforcement Academy Intensive
Criminal Investigations
Criminal Law
Graphic Communications
Automotive Technology
Air Conditioning Specialist
Chassis Specialist
Automotive Diesel Specialist
Automotive Certificate of General Maintenance
Advanced Performance Engine Builder
Powertrain Specialist
Smog Technician Specialist
Transmission Specialist
Automotive Maintenance, Detailing and Surface Enhancement
Business Accounting
Business Administration 2.0
Computer Science
of Completion (non-credit)
Computer Applications Support Specialist AS
Computer Applications Support Specialist (Advanced)
Computer Applications Support Specialist (Basic)
Foundation
Game Design
Information Technology AS
Information Technology (Advanced)
Information Technology (Basic)
Web Design
Construction Construction Pre-Apprenticeship
Early Childhood Education
Assistant Teacher Permit Coursework
Associate Teacher Permit Coursework
Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood Education Master Teacher • AS
Early Childhood Education Site Supervisor
Administration and Leadership Early Childhood Programs
Specialization - Curriculum in Early Childhood Education
Specialization - Infant Toddler Care
Specialization - Special Needs Early Care and Education
Trauma Informed Practitioner
Electrical/Instrumentation Technology
Electrical Technology • AS
Instrumentation Technology
Transit Electrical Technology
AS
https://www.losmedanos.edu/cte/programs.aspx
Note: This is a partial list of LMC’s degrees and certificates. For a complete list,visit: www.losmedanos.edu/degrees
the Los Medanos College Catalog for information on LMC program requirements.
career services career services career services
Career Services help students and alumni reach their career goals. We offer a variety of services, including career counseling, career exploration, assistance with job and internship search, resume and cover letter, and interviewing. Meet with a professional from Career Services to guide you with major choice, assist you with resume development, getting ready for a job search, and identifying career goals.
Discover Your Path
Understand your strengths and interests to find a career/major that is right for you.
Take a Career Assessment
Learn more about yourself and explore your interests. Discover majors and in-demand careers that match!
Join Career Exploration & Preparation Workshops
Join us to explore majors, skills, and interests, plus learn key strategies for successful resume writing, job searching, and interviewing.
Find a Job or Internship
LMC students and alumni search for a job or internship on Handshake.
Looking for a job on campus or off campus?
Start with Handshake is a modern, easy-to-use platform where employers can find students and alumni to fill full-time and part-time internships, jobs, and volunteer opportunities.
The mission of LMC Career Services is to provide comprehensive career planning and preparation services and resources to students, enhancing their ability to successfully identify and pursue their academic and career goals. Our core function is to meet students wherever they are in the career development continuum, and facilitate guided career awareness, exploration, preparation, and training. Our goal is to support LMC students in defining a career and educational vision and plan as they enter the college, and leave with a tool box of strategies, resources and skills.
For more information, visit: https://www.losmedanos.edu/studentservices/career
Financial Aid Financial Aid Financial Aid
Several forms of financial aid assistance are available to help students with fees, books, supplies, transportation, housing, and other related educational expenses. Students apply for financial aid assistance by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Students who complete a FAFSA can be eligible for Federal and State aid. Student who complete a CADAA can be eligible for state aid. Students should only complete one of the applications (not both), based on the citizenship criteria below:
Students are eligible to complete the FAFSA if they are a:
• U.S. Citizen
• permanent Resident
• eligible non-citizen
• T Visa holder
California College Promise Grant
(formerly Board of Governors [BOG] Waiver)
Offered to qualifying California residents by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors, this Promise Grant permits enrollment fees to be waived. It’s easy to apply!
Federal Pell Grant
Offers up to $7,395 for full-time undergraduate students pursuing a degree or certificate.
Cal Grants B and C
Offers between $1,094 and $1,648, respectively, for students taking 6 units or more. The application period is between October 1 and March 2. If you plan to attend LMC in the Fall, you have a second deadline of September 2; however, there are a limited number of competitive Cal Grant awards available in the Fall.
Chafee Grant
Offers up to $5,000 for current and former foster youth. www.chafee.ca.gov
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
Offers between $600 and $1,000 for students enrolled at least half-time (6 units), and is awarded to those who file by March 2 (priority deadline) and have the greatest need.
Students are eligible to complete the CADAA if they:
• are undocumented
• have a valid or expired DACA
• are U Visa holders
• have Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
• meet the non-resident exemption requirements under AB 540
Work-Study
Provides part-time jobs for undergraduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses
Student Loans
Loans for financing your education are available to help cover educational expenses. Eligibility is based on financial need.
Student Success Completion Grant
Offers between $2,595 and $8,000 annually to Cal Grant B and C recipients who are enrolled as full-time students (12 units).
Full-Time Free Tuition Program (No Income Requirement)
Offers up to two years of free tuition to students enrolled as full-time students.
Students can apply to receive financial aid throughout the
Exemplary programs provide the key to success for many students at LMC.
MESA Math, Engineering & Science Achievement
This academic program is for under-represented students headed to transfer as calculus-based STEM majors.
HONORS
Join to gain a competitive edge through enhanced academic experiences for scholarships and transfer to a four-year institution.
PUENTE
This bridge program provides academic counseling and mentoring with a focus on Latinx themes for students seeking transfer to four-year institutions.
The Umoja Scholars Program fosters academic enrichment and experiences responsive to the legacy of African American and African Diaspora, with a focus on first-generation college students.
TRANSFER ACADEMY
This program helps students, especially the first in their families to attend college, navigate major/ career exploration and transition to a university.
Learn more and apply now at: www.losmedanos.edu/learningcommunities
Student Support Student Support Student Support
Welcome! Have a question? We are here to help!
Admissions & Records
(925) 473-7500
www.losmedanos.edu/admissions
Bookstore (925) 473-7543
www.lmcbookstore.net
Brentwood Center (925) 513-1625
www.losmedanos.edu/brentwood
CalWORKs (925) 473-7480
www.losmedanos.edu/calworks
Center For Academic Support (925) 473-7590
www.losmedanos.edu/core
Child Study Center (925) 473-7640
www.losmedanos.edu/childcare
Counseling (925) 473-7449
www.losmedanos.edu/counseling
Disabled Students Programs & Services (DSPS) (925) 473-7471
www.losmedanos.edu/dsps
EOPS/CARE (925) 473-7480
www.losmedanos.edu/ studentservices/eops
Information Desk (925) 473-7434
www.losmedanos.edu/welcome
Financial Aid (925) 473-7525
www.losmedanos.edu/financialaid
LMC Marketplace (925) 473-7412
www.losmedanos.edu/basicneeds
Placement (925) 473-7486
www.losmedanos.edu/placement
Police Services/Lost & Found (925) 473-7332
www.losmedanos.edu/safety
Student Life (925) 473-7554
www.losmedanos.edu/studentlife
Student Success Center (925) 473-7788
www.losmedanos.edu/ studentservices/engage
Transfer & Career Services (925) 473-7444
www.losmedanos.edu/transfercareer
UMOJA SCHOLARs
lmc marketplace lmc marketplace LMC Marketplace
The LMC Marketplace (formerly the LMC Food Pantry) was established in the Spring of 2017 with the mission of providing free supplemental food and resources to students during their time of need. In 2022, Los Medanos College received state Basic Needs funding. The Food Pantry was renamed the LMC Marketplace, and a clothes closet section was added to enable students to receive free food, clothes, and hygiene products in one stop.
In addition to facilitating weekly food distributions at the LMC Marketplace, the Basic Needs Coordinator and Student Life Associates provide Basic Needs services such as assistance with TimelyCare, CalFresh application, and referrals for housing and emergency grant assistance. Whether students forgot to make their lunch, are waiting for a financial aid award, or have an unexpected expense come up, the LMC Marketplace is here to help them overcome barriers.
Who is eligible?
• LMC Students (currently enrolled)
• LMC Employees What we provide?
• Free supplemental food
• Free personal care products
• CalFresh screening & application assistance
• Referrals to on and off campus community resources
Los Medanos College Statement of Nondiscrimination
It is the policy of the Contra Costa Community College District and Los Medanos College to provide an educational and employment environment in which no person shall be unlawfully subject to discrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, race, color, medical condition, ancestry, marital status or physical or mental disability or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating in educational programs and/or extracurricular activities. Unlawful harassment, discrimination or denial of access of any employee/student with regard to ethnic group identification, national origin, religion, age, sex, race, color, ancestry, sexual orientation, or physical or mental disability is strictly prohibited. The lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the college’s education programs.
Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures and requests for the elevation and addition of sports may be directed to Los Medanos College Title IX Officer and Section 504/ADA Coordinator:
Dr. Tanisha Maxwell
Vice President of Student Services (925) 473-7421
tmaxwell@losmedanos.edu
PITTSBURG CAMPUS
2700 East Leland Road, Pittsburg, CA 94565 (925) 439-2181
BRENTWOOD CENTER
1351 Pioneer Square, Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 513-1625 www.losmedanos.edu
Los Medanos College opened in Pittsburg in 1974 to serve east Contra Costa County. Over the past 50 years, LMC program offerings have grown to over 90, and the college has added the new state-of-the-art Brentwood Center. LMC has established itself as a cultural focal point for the community, and continues its legacy with alumni and students leading, innovating and shaping a sustainable and equitable future for generations to come.