Students participating in the El Monte Police Department’s T.O.R.C.H. program recently visited El Monte-Rosemead Adult School (EMRAS) for an in-depth look at its Career Technical Education (CTE) offerings. The visit reflects a growing collaboration between public safety and educational institutions designed to empower local youth through exposure to professional pathways and hands-on learning.

Career Technical Education Pathways Provide Real-World Skills

Career technical education programs equip students with practical skills for high-demand industries. At EMRAS, students explored programs in automotive technology, culinary arts, and healthcare, all of which are aligned with workforce needs in the San Gabriel Valley. These programs not only prepare individuals for immediate employment but also serve as stepping stones to advanced education and certifications.

EMRAS has served as a vital hub for adult and youth education in the region. Through its CTE courses, the school helps close the skills gap by training future professionals who often continue to live and work within the local community. Programs are structured to simulate real-world job environments, giving students early exposure to expectations and best practices in various fields.

T.O.R.C.H. Connects Education to Opportunity

The T.O.R.C.H. program—Teaching Obedience, Responsibility, Courage, and Honor—is a youth mentorship initiative led by the El Monte Police Department. Participants receive guidance from officers and engage in educational outings that promote leadership, discipline, and career exploration. The recent visit to EMRAS allowed students to interact directly with instructors and try their hand at activities typical in career settings.

By linking at-risk or underserved youth with mentors and community partners, the T.O.R.C.H. program helps reinforce positive choices and encourages long-term planning. Students gain a deeper understanding of how their interests can translate into tangible careers, reinforcing the value of persistence in school and community involvement.

Community Gains from Workforce Education

CTE programs have a measurable impact on communities like El Monte. As more students complete vocational training, the region benefits from a larger pool of skilled workers ready to contribute to local industries. These programs also play a role in reducing dropout rates and increasing postsecondary enrollment, particularly when paired with mentorship and outreach initiatives like T.O.R.C.H.

The continued collaboration between EMRAS and the El Monte Police Department highlights how cross-sector partnerships can drive both individual success and community development. By making education accessible and relevant, these efforts help foster a more engaged, capable, and resilient youth population.

As El Monte prepares future professionals through career technical education, initiatives like T.O.R.C.H. ensure that the pathway to success is inclusive, guided, and grounded in community values.