Empowering Futures Through Technology: UC San Diego’s New Grant-Funded Initiative

UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies is excited to receive the generous grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation, marking a significant step forward in technology and engineering education, two years in a row. With an impressive allocation of $25,000, this funding will enhance the Wireless Communications Technologist Certificate program, which is specifically designed to empower 13 individuals who don’t currently have a college degree and/or are ready to start their career in STEM.

This initiative aims to bridge educational gaps and provide participants with invaluable skills and hands-on experience, creating a meaningful pathway to sustainable employment in the ever-evolving engineering industry.

Bridging the Gap Through Education

At UC San Diego Extended Studies, our heartfelt mission centers around meeting individuals' and the broader community's essential lifelong learning and skill development needs. As barriers to accessing STEM education continue to rise—particularly for under-resourced populations—we remain steadfastly committed to providing practical educational opportunities tailored to those who need them the most.

The Wireless Communications Technologist Certificate is an innovative nine-month program that engages students through exciting, hands-on activities, including wireless, public safety, broadband, and microwave technologies used in emergency management and consumer day-to-day communication. Participating in this program at no cost will give students access to vital vocational skills and workforce placement opportunities in flourishing fields such as wireless and antenna engineering. Importantly, the program has been designed to be widely accessible, requiring no prior STEM experience or education beyond high school.

In today's world, where careers in STEM are more critical than ever, a growing wage disparity between degree holders and high school graduates is notable. In 2023, individuals aged 25 and over with a bachelor's degree had median annual earnings of $59,000, compared to $41,800 for those with only a high school diploma—a difference of $17,200 annually. This wage gap underscores the importance of education in accessing higher-paying, in-demand careers.

For instance, professionals in the communications technology field, which encompasses roles like wireless communications technologists, had a median annual wage of $55,000 in 2023–demonstrating that specialized education in this area can lead to competitive salaries and career advancement opportunities.

Furthermore, we recognize that access to education is just one piece of the puzzle. The generous grant from Motorola Solutions Foundation will cover the costs associated with the courses and allow Extended Studies to implement comprehensive mentorship and internship opportunities in collaboration with local businesses. These internships will provide participants with essential real-world experience, which is critical for securing employment in today's competitive job market.

"We are inspired by the impactful work of UC San Diego Extended Studies within their community,” said Wesley Barden Touhy, executive director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation. "The Motorola Solutions Foundation is proud to champion their efforts as they continue to grow and make a positive difference."

Collaborating to Serve and Innovate

This collaboration aligns seamlessly with our priorities of reaching under-resourced populations and establishing strong partnerships with nonprofit organizations that foster innovation in education and technology. Motorola Solutions' unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation of innovators helps ensure that this initiative will create a lasting impact for both participants and the communities they represent.

Each instructor involved in this program brings a wealth of industry experience into the classroom, helping ensure that participants receive a top-tier education. Offering a blend of in-person and online learning opportunities, the program offers the accessibility and flexibility that UC San Diego Extended Studies is known for while also providing accountability and opportunities to connect with fellow learners. With 90 instructional hours and the potential for credit through internships, our students will emerge well-prepared and certified.

The division is excited to welcome community stakeholders to join in amplifying the impact of this initiative. Whether through mentorship, contributing internship opportunities, or helping to spread the word about the program, regional involvement can significantly contribute to fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce in STEM fields.

Visit the UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies website for more information about the Wireless Communications Technologist Certificate program and to explore ways to get involved.

About the Motorola Solutions Foundation

As the charitable and philanthropic arm of Motorola Solutions, the Motorola Solutions Foundation partners with organizations around the world to build safer cities and thriving communities. We focus on giving back through strategic grants, employee volunteerism and other community investment initiatives.

Our strategic grants program supports organizations that offer first responder programming and technology and engineering education, and align to our values of accountability, innovation, impact and inclusion. The Foundation is one of the many ways in which the company is innovating for a safer future. For more information on the Foundation, visit: www.motorolasolutions.com/foundation.