Oxnard College has launched its new Logistics Certificate program, made possible through a key partnership with the U.S. Navy and the Port of Hueneme. The new program will help train Ventura County residents to meet workforce needs at Naval Base Ventura County and the Port of Hueneme.
Oxnard College’s Logistics Certificate program includes four core courses designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills in logistics. The 12-unit curriculum covers a range of topics including logistics systems, supply chain management, transportation systems and imports and exports. Graduates of the program will be qualified for potential employment in logistics at the Port and Naval Base Ventura County, among other logistics-related employers.
“We are thrilled to partner with Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division (NSWC PHD), and the Port of Hueneme on this important initiative for Ventura County’s residents,” shared Dr. Roberto Gonzalez, president of Oxnard College. “Through careful collaboration, we have partnered with the Port and NSWC PHD to train local workers, meet employers’ needs, and provide good-paying careers right here in our community.”
The global logistics market is booming, valued at $10.32 billion in 2017 and projected to reach $12.68 billion by 2023. This growth is driven by increased global trade, advancements in technology and the rise of e-commerce. The U.S. remains a key player, ranking among the top ten logistics markets worldwide. With a growing economy and increasing demand for efficient supply chains, the need for skilled logisticians is higher than ever.
“Community is so important to us at NSWC PHD, and cultivating the next generation of our workforce is critical to ensure our fleet support mission is sustained,” said Bagrat Minasian, NSWC PHD business director. “Logistics is a specific skill set that is essential to the success of our command and the U.S. Navy. We are thrilled to partner with Oxnard College and cannot wait to meet the future logistics graduates of this program.”
The logistics industry is a cornerstone of the global economy, with a projected 18% job growth from 2022 to 2032. This expansion, driven by increasing e-commerce and global trade, creates numerous opportunities for logisticians. In the U.S., third-party logistics providers are a significant market segment, expected to rise from $168.4 billion in 2017 to $266.1 billion by 2027.
In addition to the certificate program, Oxnard College is planning to offer an associate degree in Logistics. The degree is anticipated to be available starting in Fall 2025 and will involve researching transfer pathways, exploring articulation agreements with local universities and preparing necessary documentation for curriculum development. The eventual associate degree will help graduates transfer to four-year universities and advance their careers.
“The Port of Hueneme is one of the most productive and efficient commercial trade gateways for niche cargo on the West Coast. Port operations support the community by bringing $2.8 billion in economic activity and creating approximately 25,000 trade-related jobs. The Port of Hueneme is proud to partner with regional leaders like Oxnard College and Navy Base Ventura County to create the Oxnard College Logistics Program. This collaborative initiative helps ensure the local logistics workforce of tomorrow is properly trained today,” said Kristin Decas, Port of Hueneme CEO & Port Director.
For more information about the Logistics Certificate program at Oxnard College, visit oxnardcollege.edu/logistics or contact Dr. Isaac Rodriguez Lupercio at irodriguezlupercio@vcccd.edu.
