KCSOS’s Future Readiness Center Opens New Pathways for Kern Students

In classrooms across Kern County, students dare to imagine their futures — and KCSOS is helping ensure they have the tools to reach them. In the fall, KCSOS opened the Future Readiness Center, expanding access to college and career readiness resources for students countywide.

As college admissions and workforce demands continue to evolve, the Future Readiness Center is designed to ensure students aren’t navigating these challenges alone. Created by KCSOS’s College & Career Programs Department, the center serves as a centralized hub offering individualized, no-cost support tailored to each student’s goals.

Through workshops and the center’s Pizza with Professionals series, students connect directly with experts in the fields they hope to pursue. Whether they need help with applications, want to explore career options, or are seeking feedback on admission essays, students can access one-on-one guidance and practical advice.

Stephanie Baltazar, Coordinator for College and Career Readiness, described the center as a natural extension of the department’s mission to support students across Kern County.

“It allows us to offer free services students may not otherwise get, or to supplement what their school is already providing,” Baltazar said. “We’re also expanding opportunities connected to Kern County’s priority sectors where workforce needs are high.”

Students and families are already seeing the impact. One student shared that a connection made through a center event led to insights they didn’t realize they needed, while another professional helped them identify potential career paths. Parents are encouraged to take an active role as well, and participation has been strong, with families attending workshops together.

“I love this workshop, because I always feel lost as a parent,” one parent said.

Creating a safe, welcoming environment is central to the center’s work. 

“We’re working to create a space where parents feel comfortable and supported,” Baltazar said. “It’s been wonderful to see families going through this process together.”

While the Future Readiness Center is based in downtown Bakersfield — in a leased space inside the historic Bakersfield Californian building on Eye Street — its work is not limited to one location. Staff have already taken services on the road, hosting college application workshops in Taft, Mojave, and McFarland.

“Our goal is to take opportunities directly to students,” Baltazar said. “As demand grows, we’re also exploring transportation support.”

Throughout 2026, the center plans to expand evening workshops focused on career readiness, including résumé building, interview skills, internship exploration, and industry Q&A events. Connecting students with local industries remains a priority as Kern County continues building pipelines into high-demand fields.

Ultimately, the Future Readiness Center aims to strengthen community ties, expand equitable access to guidance, and empower students with the tools they need to pursue meaningful careers — in Kern County.

“We want students to understand the career opportunities available right here at home. Whatever path they choose, we want them to see that they can build their future,” Baltazar said. aims to strengthen community ties, expand equitable access to guidance, and empower students with the tools they need to pursue meaningful careers — in Kern County.