Congresswoman Simon Secures Federal Funding for Laney College and College of Alameda’s Fabrication Labs, Helping Bay Area Students Develop Practical Skills and Prepare for High[...]

OAKLAND, CA - Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) recently secured $250,000 in Community Project Funding (CPF) for the Peralta Community College District, specifically the Manufacturing and Fabrication Pathway Lab (FabLab) facilities at Laney College and the College of Alameda. The FabLabs serve as essential experiential learning spaces where students, local entrepreneurs, and makers utilize advanced technologies-such as 3D printers, CNC routers, laser cutters, and robotics tools-to bring their designs to life. This federal funding will be used to purchase new equipment and implement structured training programs for students to enhance their digital fabrication skills and prepare for high-demand careers in fields like manufacturing, construction, biomedical, and healthcare. The federal funding will expand educational and job training opportunities for Oakland's young people as they enter the local workforce and prepare to give back to their communities and the local economy.

Today, the Congresswoman announced the funding at Laney College alongside Peralta Community College District (PCCD) Chancellor Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson, Laney College President Rebecca Opsata, and College of Alameda President Melanie Dixon. She also toured the FabLab facilities at both colleges to discuss the planned facilities upgrades.

This Community Project Funding (CPF) is a part of the $11.2 million dollars that Congresswoman Simon secured for 15 projects across the East Bay in Fiscal Year 2026. Each fiscal year, members of Congress can submit Community Project Funding requests for consideration with the House Committee on Appropriations. You can read about the 15 projects that Congresswoman Simon secured funding for in her first year here.

"Education is one of the most important tools we can give our young people to set them on a path to success." said Congresswoman Simon. "It is critical our local colleges have adequate resources to provide students with the education they deserve. This funding will help prepare the next generation of Oaklanders for successful careers so they can continue to support themselves and their families and thrive in the city. I look forward to seeing the facilities and program upgrades this funding will support, and all the doors it will open for our students."

"We are incredibly thrilled about this investment in our students, faculty, and programs," said PCCD Chancellor Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson. "Congresswoman Simon's advocacy and support directly strengthen our ability to provide top-tier, accessible technical education. This funding underscores a shared commitment to building strong, equitable pathways to career success right here in our communities, and we are deeply grateful for her partnership."

"Laney College is honored to welcome Representative Simon to our campus to witness firsthand the innovative spirit of our students," said Laney College President Dr. Becky Opsata. "The Fab Lab is a cornerstone of our career technical education, allowing students to put their classroom learning to use by making things in the lab. This vital federal funding ensures our facility remains state-of-the-art and fully equipped to prepare students for the modern workforce."

"This funding represents a major boost for student access and technological literacy at the College of Alameda," said College of Alameda President Melanie Dixon. "By investing in our Fab Lab, Congresswoman Simon is helping us break down barriers to STEM and advanced manufacturing fields. We look forward to showing her how these resources will directly uplift our diverse student body and fuel economic mobility in the region."

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