May 14, 2026

Continuing & Professional Education Marks Banner Year

MPC Continuing and Professional Education Program Marks Banner Year of Workforce Training and Community Partnerships

MONTEREY, Calif. — Monterey Peninsula College Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) continues to expand its impact across the region through workforce training, youth enrichment, lifelong learning, and strategic community partnerships that create accessible pathways to education and career advancement.

This spring, CPE saw enrollment increase over the fall semester by 31%. The strongest growth occurred in youth programming and personal enrichment courses, reflecting rising community demand for flexible, high-quality learning opportunities.

“This growth demonstrates the community’s enthusiasm for accessible and meaningful educational experiences,” said Alexis Bollin, Director of Continuing and Professional Education at MPC. “Our programs support learners of all ages while helping connect families and students to future opportunities at MPC.”

This year, CPE also expanded efforts to provide summer camp scholarships for local families, helping ensure equitable access to enrichment opportunities for children across the community.

Summer youth programming will include six sessions of LEGO Camp, Football Camp in partnership with Head Football Coach Adrian Gallegos, Musical Theatre Camp, Culinary Camps hosted in MPC’s Hospitality kitchen, and a new Jewelry and Metalwork Camp. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences while introducing students to future educational pathways at Monterey Peninsula College.

Career training remained a major focus this year. CPE launched a new Phlebotomy Technician Training cohort at Monterey Adult School as part of the College’s partnership to expand educational access. The 10-month program prepares students to earn the CPT-1 license required for employment in California, and employers continue to praise graduates’ professionalism and job readiness.

CPE also partnered with Central Coast High School to deliver a six-week Irrigation Installation course through the school’s Expanded and Enriched Learning Opportunities program. Students gained hands-on technical training along with communication and customer service skills aligned with workforce needs.

Throughout the year, CPE strengthened outreach through participation in regional events, including the Summer Camp Expo, Career Fair, Monterey County Fair, and events hosted at the Mission Trails ROP Center.

“Continuing and Professional Education reflects Monterey Peninsula College’s commitment to serving our community through accessible and responsive programming,” said Dr. Marshall T. Fulbright III, MPC Superintendent/President. “These partnerships and enrollment gains highlight the important role CPE plays in workforce development and lifelong learning throughout the region.”

Through its community-centered approach, MPC’s Continuing and Professional Education continues to strengthen educational access, workforce preparation, and lifelong learning opportunities across the Monterey Peninsula.

Monterey Peninsula College -  Established in 1947     

Monterey Peninsula College, part of California’s public community college system, is an open-access institution committed to fostering student learning and success by providing excellence in instructional programs, facilities, and services to support the goals of students pursuing transfer, career, basic skills, and lifelong learning opportunities.

In addition to the scenic Monterey campus located on 90+ acres, MPC’s district includes the Public Safety Training Center in Seaside and the Education Center at Marina. As a comprehensive community college, MPC responds to the educational and cultural needs of its diverse community and is distinguished for its outstanding academic programs and strong commitment to student success. To learn more about Monterey Peninsula College, please visit www.mpc.edu and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.