new planted tree

Public Works

Building Skills. Strengthening Communities.

The best learning happens by doing. Through CSET’s Sequoia Community Corps Public Works Program, young adults gain hands-on training, industry-recognized skills, and real-world work experience while helping build and improve the communities where we live, work, and play.

Building a Better Future

At CSET, we believe career success starts with opportunity. The Sequoia Community Corps Public Works Program prepares young adults for rewarding careers in construction, public works, and the skilled trades through paid, hands-on training and meaningful community projects.

Corpsmembers work alongside experienced professionals on public works and industrial construction projects throughout the region, developing technical expertise, workplace readiness, leadership skills, and professional confidence.

By combining workforce development with community improvement, the program creates lasting benefits for both participants and the communities they serve. Many graduates go on to successful careers in construction, utilities, public works, and other high-demand industries.

What are Public Works projects?

Public works projects are infrastructure and community improvement initiatives funded by public resources and commissioned by government agencies. These projects enhance public safety, recreation, transportation, environmental sustainability, and overall quality of life while creating long-term benefits for local residents.

California General Contractor License #B766382

Fee-for-Service Construction Program

The Sequoia Community Corps also provides professional construction services through its Fee-for-Service Construction Program. This innovative social enterprise model expands training opportunities for corpsmembers while delivering high-quality construction services to public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private clients.

Our experienced crews perform a wide range of services, including:

  • Concrete flatwork

  • Site improvements

  • Facility rehabilitation

  • Landscape and irrigation installation

  • Solar energy projects

  • General construction

  • New construction and renovation

Every project serves a dual purpose—meeting client needs while providing valuable real-world training that prepares corpsmembers for future careers. Interested in partnering with us? Contact our team to learn how the Fee-for-Service Program can support your next project.

Contact Information

Randy McNutt

Public Works Manager

(559) 563-3775

Randy.McNutt@cset.org

two men planting a new tree

Featured Projects

KC Vista Park Improvements – Dinuba

In partnership with the City of Dinuba, the Sequoia Community Corps completed major improvements at KC Vista Park, creating new recreational opportunities while promoting environmental stewardship.

Project Highlights

  • Constructed approximately 1.5 miles of walking trails

  • Installed a butterfly garden to support pollinators and environmental education

  • Planted 120 trees to provide shade, improve air quality, and enhance the park

  • environment

  • Installed 65 solar-powered lights to improve safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency

  • This project provided valuable hands-on training while creating a lasting community asset that

  • encourages outdoor recreation, environmental awareness, and neighborhood engagement.

Murry Park Expansion Project – Porterville

Working in partnership with the City of Porterville Parks Department, the Sequoia Community Corps completed significant improvements to Murry Park focused on recreation, habitat restoration, and beautification.

Project Highlights

  • Removed dead trees and overgrown vegetation

  • Cleared and restored the ponding basin center island

  • Constructed a river rock waterway to support future fish habitat development

  • Installed a decomposed granite walking path to improve public access

  • Added drought-tolerant landscaping and drip irrigation systems along Putnam Avenue

These enhancements support environmental sustainability, recreational access, and long-term community enjoyment.

Training Opportunities

Solar Installation Project – Visalia

Corpsmembers successfully installed a 44-kilowatt solar energy system on the roof of CSET’s main office. After completing classroom instruction, participants logged more than 1,000 hours of hands-on training, gaining experience in:

  • Solar technology

  • Electrical systems

  • Wiring methods

  • Installation techniques

  • Jobsite safety practices

The project equipped participants with valuable skills in one of California’s fastest-growing industries.

Kings County Parks – Burris and Hickey Community Parks

Serving as the general contractor, Sequoia Community Corps is leading improvements at Burris and Hickey Community Parks in Kings County. Together, the parks encompass 110 acres of recreational space, including a dedicated 1-acre natural habitat area designed to support native trees, plants, and local wildlife.

Local youth are actively involved throughout the project, gaining hands-on experience in landscaping, habitat restoration, and park development while helping create lasting community assets.

Park Features

  • 110 acres of combined parkland

  • 1-acre natural habitat featuring native trees and plants

  • Planting of 300 trees throughout the parks

  • 1.5 miles of decomposed granite (DG) walking trail

  • Open recreational and green space

  • Shade and passive gathering areas

CSET oversees project planning, construction, installation, and quality assurance from start to finish, ensuring the successful development and long-term sustainability of these valuable community resources.

Pixley Community Campus – Pixley

The Corps completed the rehabilitation of a community facility that provides healthcare and support services to underserved residents.

Improvements Included:

  • Plumbing upgrades

  • Electrical improvements

  • Drywall repair

  • HVAC servicing

  • Interior and exterior painting

  • Finish and facility enhancements

The project improved access to essential community services while providing corpsmembers with valuable construction experience.


Corpsmembers receive hands-on training in a variety of construction trades and industry disciplines, including:

  • Concrete Construction

  • Framing

  • Electrical Systems

  • Plumbing

  • Finish Carpentry

  • Site Preparation

  • Landscaping and Irrigation

  • General Construction Practices

  • Solar Installation

  • Light Equipment Operation

  • And More

four men working on creating a new concrete path

Equipment Certifications


Participants have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications and equipment training that strengthen their employability and career readiness.

Available Certifications:

  • OSHA Safety Training

  • CPR/First Aid

  • Forklift Operation

  • Boom Lift Operation

  • Bobcat Operation

  • Backhoe Operation

These certifications help prepare corpsmembers for careers in construction, public works, transportation, utilities, maintenance, and other skilled-trades professions.

Building Stronger Communities. Creating Career Pathways.

The Sequoia Community Corps Public Works Program combines workforce development, hands-on training, and community service to prepare the next generation of skilled professionals. Every project completed helps improve local communities while creating opportunities for young adults to build rewarding careers and brighter futures.