SALINAS VALLEY — Hartnell College has introduced the Climate and Environmental Resilience Ambassadors (CERA) Program, an innovative initiative designed to empower students as leaders in climate adaptation and environmental resilience.
Funded through a $2 million sub-award from California Marine Sanctuary Foundation, the program will equip students with essential skills and hands-on experience to address pressing climate challenges.
Hartnell’s work is part of a larger $71.1 million project called “Climate Resilient Monterey Bay,” sponsored by National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (NOAA) through the Climate Resilience Regional Challenge, and focused on bolstering climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Under the leadership of Jason Hough, professor at Hartnell College, the CERA Program will engage 175 students over the next five years in experiential learning, leadership development and climate policy advocacy. While enrolled in public speaking and argumentation courses, students will participate in guest speaker sessions, field trips and real-world climate adaptation projects, integrating key sustainability concepts into their academic and career paths.
Supporting Student Success
In addition to gaining valuable skills, students enrolled in the CERA Program will receive full funding for books, fees and tuition, removing financial barriers and making the program accessible to all interested participants.
The program is open to current and future Hartnell College students planning to enroll in fall 2025 for COM 1, Intro. to Public Speaking, and COM 2, Argumentation and Debate. (Students who have already earned credit for these courses are ineligible.)
“The CERA Program offers students a unique opportunity to engage directly in climate action while developing critical leadership and technical skills,” Hough said. “By providing real-world learning experiences, we are preparing the next generation of environmental leaders to tackle regional and global climate challenges.”
Workforce Development and Paid Internships
The CERA Program is a key initiative in Hartnell College’s broader efforts to support workforce development in climate resilience. Over the next five years, the college aims to engage more than 750 learners in no-cost, skill-based certificate programs, preparing them for careers in environmental science, sustainability and climate policy.
In addition, students will have access to paid internships ranging from 75 to 360 hours, offering hands-on experience in such areas as coastal restoration, non-native fuel reduction and habitat conservation.
Regional Impact and Collaboration
Hartnell College is a core partner in the Monterey Bay Climate Action Adaptation Network (MBCAAN) and Climate Resilience Monterey Bay (CRMB), regional collaborations of more than 30 agencies and organizations across Monterey and Santa Cruz counties.
Through these partnerships, students in the CERA Program will contribute directly to climate adaptation efforts, gaining exposure to real-world projects and industry connections that enhance their career readiness.
“This initiative reflects Hartnell College’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and student success,” said Shannon Bliss, director of agriculture innovation and technology. “Through this program, we are not only providing a valuable educational experience but also creating real-world opportunities for students to make a lasting impact in their communities.”
