Bakersfield College Foundation Partners with Amazon

Friday, March 21, 2025

The Bakersfield College Foundation has committed $1.37 million to expand workforce training through a powerful partnership with Amazon. As one of just five institutions nationwide selected to offer Amazon’s Mechatronic Robotic Apprenticeship (MRA) program, Bakersfield College is set to strengthen career education and workforce development in Kern County.

“At the Bakersfield College Foundation, our mission is to support initiatives that create real opportunities for students and strengthen our local workforce," said Cheryl Scott, Executive Director of the Bakersfield College Foundation. "This partnership with Amazon is a perfect example of how strategic investments in education can transform lives and industries.”

The MRA program will provide students with industry-recognized certifications and direct career pathways in advanced industrial maintenance, meeting the growing demand for skilled workers in Kern County’s expanding industrial sector. “By working alongside Amazon, we’re ensuring students gain the skills needed to thrive in today’s workforce,” said Rozanne Hernandez, Bakersfield College’s Dean of Career Technical Education.

“This is what career technical education should be—effective, and directly connected to industry needs,” said Dr. Jerry E. Fliger, President of Bakersfield College. “Working together with industry leaders like Amazon bridges education and workforce development. Because of this collaboration, BC will provide individuals with real skills that lead to high-paying, in-demand jobs.”

This shared vision goes beyond education—it’s an investment in Kern County’s economic future, ensuring local talent can stay in the region while securing competitive wages in an evolving industry.

For more information about Bakersfield College’s career technical education programs, visit the Career Education page on the Bakersfield College website.