What is a Regional Occupational Center?

Southern California Regional Occupational Center (SoCal ROC) is an incredible educational gem designed to prepare students for the workforce with practical, hands-on training opportunities for high school and adult students and is a part of the California public school system.

Regional Occupational Centers focus on career and technical education (CTE), offering a wide array of programs that span various industries from construction trades to healthcare to creative media and more. Each program is carefully crafted to meet the demands of the local job market, ensuring that students gain relevant skills that can lead directly to employment or further education.

What sets ROCs apart is their commitment to providing a real-world learning experience. Imagine walking into a classroom that resembles a professional workshop more than a traditional lecture hall. You'll find students engaging in activities like fixing engines, using game design software, or even performing mock medical procedures. This immersive approach not only makes learning more engaging and enjoyable but also builds confidence and competence. Instructors are often industry professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights, further enriching the learning experience.

For many, a Regional Occupational Center serves as a bridge between the classroom and the career world. High school students, adults seeking new skills, and individuals looking to change careers can all benefit from the specialized training offered. With strong ties to local businesses and community organizations, ROCs provide externship opportunities, industry certifications, and career counseling. In essence, an ROC is not just an educational institution; it's a launchpad for success, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive job market.

They're not only about gaining knowledge; they're about applying what you learn in real-world scenarios. This hands-on approach ensures that you gain valuable experience, making you job-ready the moment you complete your course. Plus, our experienced instructors are industry professionals who care deeply about your success and are there to guide you every step of the way. From current high school students to recent graduates and stay-at-home parents to veterans and retirees, the programs are designed to accommodate a wide range of backgrounds and career aspirations.

Who can attend?

Any high school student, grades 9-12 and adults interested in retraining, moving up in their career, or changing careers regardless of geographic residence may enroll at the Center. However, SoCal ROC partners with El Segundo USD, Inglewood USD, Manhattan Beach USD, Palos Verdes Peninsula USD, Redondo Beach USD, and Torrance USD, under the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) and Public Charter High School, Options for Youth to provide free courses for the Fall and Spring semesters; for details, contact your Career Guidance Specialist. Please note transportation is provided for JPA high school students attending the 1:15 or 4:15pm class sessions.

Out-of-District students and adults are certainly welcome to attend and take advantage of our hands-on courses. There is a designated fee for each course offered that adults and parents/guardians of out-of-district high school students are required to pay as part of the enrollment process. For financial support contact our partners South Bay Workforce Investment Board and Department of Rehabilitation.

MISSION

The mission of SoCal ROC is to provide all students through industry-linked programs, the skills and knowledge necessary to attain their career goals in order to become economically self-sufficient and be a successful contributor to society and a global economy. 

Our belief system and foundation is focused on our Schoolwide Learner Outcomes (SLOs): 

SCHOOLWIDE LEARNER OUTCOMES

Students will develop and execute a multi-year career plan by:
  • Understanding Career Pathways
  • Identifying a career area of focus
  • Enrolling in a course within a Career Pathway
  • Demonstrating job specific skills/competencies necessary to attain a course certificate
  • Developing job readiness skills
  • Pursuing training to advance in a Career Pathway
  • Demonstrating knowledge of future career options
Students will demonstrate professional behavior in the workplace by:
  • Communicating effectively
  • Demonstrating leadership qualities that contribute to the organization
  • Effectively managing time
  • Building relationships through collaboration and teamwork
  • Thinking critically/solving problems
  • Dressing appropriately for a career
  • Demonstrating flexibility, resiliency, and perseverance
Students will anticipate and adjust to ongoing economic and workforce trends by:
  • Demonstrating entrepreneurial characteristics
  • Demonstrating technological literacy
  • Being resourceful and innovative
  • Using resources to acquire knowledge
  • Setting priorities and adapting as priorities change
  • Taking courses that are aligned with current industry standards
Students will understand and demonstrate ethical and legal behavior by:
  • Understanding and complying with all school rules and workplace regulation
  • Treating all people with respect
  • Demonstrating appreciation for cultural diversity
  • Demonstrating honesty and integrity
  • Demonstrating responsibility and accountability in fulfilling community and workplace roles
  • Demonstrating appropriate customer service skills

our VISIOn

All students will have the opportunity to participate in a high-quality, rigorous, and relevant course of study made up of Career Technical Education (CTE) courses aligned to CTE Standards and academic standards. Courses shall be reviewed on an annual basis with industry partners so as to meet industry standards and expectations ensuring that skills and theory taught will prepare students for further study and preparation for high skilled, high wage, and technologically “green” focused career areas of today and tomorrow.