CORE Academy has opened its first-ever permanent training center, ushering in a new era for a free workforce training initiative that has rapidly evolved from courses in property management and maintenance into a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program.
The Hope through Housing program’s new headquarters spans 3,800 square feet at the historic d’Ellena Winery in Rancho Cucamonga, providing office space for program staff, training facilities for 18 students and technology that allows participants across three states to join classes remotely.
Angel Rogers, Hope through Housing’s senior training facilitator, said the value of the training center was apparent the moment classes began.
“The students have already said how much they love it and how bright it is,” Rogers said. “They have the space to ask questions, practice what they’re learning and build confidence in their skills.”
Participants can also join classes from community rooms at National CORE properties, giving them access to instruction without traveling to the winery.
“A permanent home gives CORE Academy the stability to deepen our impact, expand career options and create a lasting workforce development hub for residents, community members, partners and employers,” said Clarence Syndor, director of CORE Academy. “While our immediate focus is growing in Southern California, our long-term vision includes expanding to Texas and Florida through National CORE’s existing footprint.”
CORE Academy provides career training for residents and community members looking to enter a new field or strengthen their skills. Launched in 2022 in partnership with National CORE, the program’s foundational courses are in property management and maintenance.
Those foundational courses have since expanded beyond the Inland Empire, with onsite instruction now available in Orange, San Diego and Los Angeles counties.
In 2025, CORE Academy added internships in social media marketing, production studio management and broadcast production management. A hospitality track followed in 2026, and training in advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, is in development.
“When they’re done with these classes, they can actually go apply for a job in these industries and be able to say that they have a certificate of completion,” Rogers said.
