Training

Workforce Training Program for Oakland Residents

Lifers Leaving a Legacy (LIFERS) is proud to announce a new workforce training opportunity designed to open doors to strong, sustainable careers for Oakland residents.

Through a recently awarded workforce development grant, 60 Oakland residents will have the opportunity to participate in a comprehensive training experience that prepares them for employment across multiple industries. This program brings together commercial driving training, HAZMAT certification, and Urban Forestry education into one integrated learning experience designed to broaden job opportunities for participants.

At Lifers, we believe that changing economic opportunity helps change the conditions people live in. When individuals gain access to stable employment and the ability to earn a decent living, families strengthen and communities begin to thrive.

Program Overview

A Comprehensive Training Experience

Rather than focusing on a single skill, this program provides participants with a combination of practical certifications and industry-relevant training that can lead to a variety of employment pathways.

Participants will receive training that includes:

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Preparation
Training designed to help participants qualify for commercial driving opportunities in transportation and logistics—industries that keep goods moving throughout the region.

HAZMAT Certification Training
Participants will gain the knowledge necessary to pursue Hazardous Materials certification, expanding employment opportunities and increasing earning potential in the transportation sector.

Urban Forestry Training
Participants will also receive hands-on education in urban forestry, preparing them for work that supports tree care, environmental stewardship, and community infrastructure.

Together, these components create a well-rounded workforce preparation experience that equips participants with practical skills and industry-recognized credentials.

Strong Partnerships Creating Opportunity

This program is made possible through collaboration between organizations committed to expanding opportunity for Oakland residents:

Port of Oakland – Supporting workforce development connected to the region’s transportation and logistics industries
Performing Solutions – Providing CDL and HAZMAT training expertise
Common Vision – Delivering Urban Forestry training and education
Lifers Leaving a Legacy – Connecting residents to opportunity and supporting participants throughout the program

Changing Conditions Through Opportunity

This program is about more than job training—it is about helping residents access meaningful work that can change their circumstances. When people have the opportunity to earn stable wages, they can improve their living conditions, support their families, and contribute to stronger neighborhoods.

Lifers is proud to help create pathways where opportunity replaces limitation and possibility replaces barriers.

Learn More

If you are an Oakland resident interested in participating or learning more, we invite you to complete the form below.

A member of the Lifers team will follow up with additional information about the program, eligibility requirements, and upcoming enrollment opportunities.

Complete the form below to receive more information about this workforce training opportunity.

By combining these resources, the program helps ensure participants are prepared for a broad range of job opportunities across transportation, logistics, infrastructure, and community improvement sectors.