Have you heard of Mountain-Desert Career Pathways? This innovative public education and private business partnership aims to prepare our students for high-paying career opportunities right here in the High Desert.

“We have a consortium of nine school districts that focus on career pathways for students in the High Desert,” said Matt Wells, director of Mountain-Desert Career Pathways. “I appreciate all of our industry partners who are so enthusiastic about bringing students out to visit. So many of them grew up in this area and just want to share that passion and excitement."

Participating districts include Apple Valley USD, Barstow USD, Hesperia USD, Lucerne Valley USD, Silver Valley USD and Victor Valley UHSD.

According to recent labor market reports, manufacturing is one of our area’s leading industries. Local employers include Cal Portland, Liberty Utilities, Mitsubishi Cement, Rio Tinto, and Southwest Gas.

Mountain-Desert Career Pathways cites local salaries in the manufacturing industry at between $37,200-$64,075 annually. Additional perks include health insurance, retirement, paid time off, career development, and educational opportunities.

Thanks to the increased growth at Southern California Logistics Airport, the High Desert has a high demand for aviation careers. Local employers include ComAv, DYNCorp International, Boeing, Exquadrum, General Atomics, and GE Aviation.

Additional high-demand sectors include education, healthcare, transportation and business/finance.

To learn more about local employers, in-demand industries and career opportunities, click here.