The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses has named San Bernardino Valley College the recipient of the 2026 HCSB Spheres of Sustainability Visionary Award, recognizing the college's leadership in preparing people and communities for a more sustainable future. The college will be honored at the 2026 HCSB Spheres of Sustainability Summit on April 22, 2026. Frank Montes, founding chair of HCSB, emphasized the organization's mission focuses on helping students, small business owners and entrepreneurs prepare for sustainable jobs and businesses that strengthen both economy and communities. The partnership with San Bernardino Valley College brings that mission to life by developing a workforce that keeps the Inland Empire moving forward.
The college prepares students for careers in clean energy, water and environmental systems, transportation and transit, aviation, logistics, skilled trades, technology and the businesses that support these industries. This translates into clear, affordable pathways from the classroom to meaningful careers where students earn industry-recognized credentials, gain hands-on experience and enter jobs that support their families while strengthening their communities. From maintaining transit and transportation systems to building sustainable infrastructure, managing water resources, powering clean energy and supporting these fields through technology and entrepreneurship, SBVC connects education directly to opportunity. Students learn in modern facilities and gain real-world experience through internships, apprenticeships and workforce partnerships that prepare them for jobs that matter.
Dr. Gilbert Contreras, president of San Bernardino Valley College, expressed honor at receiving this recognition and noted that together with HCSB, they are creating real opportunities for students while building a stronger, more sustainable region. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, San Bernardino Valley College mirrors the community around it with more than 72% of students identifying as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting the vibrant and diverse population of San Bernardino and the Inland Empire. The college demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through both academic programs and campus operations. As part of the San Bernardino Community College District's goal to achieve carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035, SBVC has invested in forward-looking, sustainable infrastructure.
This includes the Applied Technology Building, a 114,000-square-foot, all-electric, net-zero-ready facility completed in 2025 and tracking LEED Platinum certification. The building features passive cooling through solar thermal chimneys and extensive photovoltaic canopy and rooftop systems that provide nearly 70% of its energy. Additional information about the college's sustainability initiatives can be found at https://www.valleycollege.edu/sustainability. Looking ahead, the Career Pathways 2 Building, targeted for completion in 2027, is pursuing LEED Gold and Envision Sustainable certifications with a focus on water stewardship and resource conservation. Across the campus, SBVC has prioritized drought-tolerant landscaping and modular wetlands that capture and treat stormwater, reinforcing a comprehensive approach to environmental responsibility.
The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing small business communities by fostering collaboration among educators, students, entrepreneurs, government and industry partners. More details about their programs are available at https://www.hcsb.org/programs. This award highlights how educational institutions can serve as catalysts for regional economic development while addressing critical environmental challenges through workforce preparation and sustainable campus practices.
