Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Education, Training & Community Services
Proteus is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering farmworking families and diverse communities through comprehensive education, workforce training, and support services. Since 1967, we have evolved to meet the dynamic needs of the Central San Joaquin Valley, offering over 50 programs across 25 locations. Our services include career counseling, job placement, vocational training, energy conservation initiatives, foster family services, and youth programs. We operate two Mobile Employment Centers and maintain a strong commitment to improving quality of life through our mission-driven approach.Our team of experienced professionals delivers tailored solutions, emphasizing self-sufficiency and community impact. Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Council on Occupational Education, we uphold rigorous standards in education and service delivery. Our partnerships with local governments, businesses, and agencies ensure we address both immediate and long-term needs of underserved populations.
Services
Job Placement
Vocational Training
Energy Assistance
Foster Family Services
Scholarships
Youth Programs
GED Preparation
Truck Driving Classes
ESL Courses
Career Counseling
Details
- Year established: 1967
Highlights and features
- 50+ years of experience serving Central Valley communities
- Accredited educational programs with industry-recognized certifications
- Comprehensive support from job training to emergency assistance
- Specialized services for farmworkers and migrant populations
- Proven success in workforce development and placement
Associations and certifications
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- Council on Occupational Education
What people say
Life-changing training
Supportive staff
Career advancement
Community-focused programs
Accredited courses
Services
Vocational Training
Our accredited vocational programs prepare students for in-demand careers through hands-on instruction. Courses include truck driving, HVAC fundamentals, forklift certification, and sustainable energy practices. Training combines classroom learning with practical experience to develop job-ready skills for immediate employment.
Farmworker Support
We provide specialized assistance to migrant and seasonal farmworkers through career counseling, job placement, and skills development. Our programs include emergency support, ESL classes, and occupational training tailored to agricultural workers' unique needs and schedules.
Energy Assistance
Our Energy Division offers home assessments and energy-saving improvements through state and federal programs. Services include appliance replacement, weatherization, and enrollment in utility discount plans to help low-income households reduce energy costs.
Foster Family Services
We provide therapeutic foster care placements focusing on children's educational, social, and psychological needs. Our program includes family screening, placement support, and long-term reunification planning while ensuring safe, nurturing environments for foster children.
Adult Education
Our William M. Maguy School of Education offers GED preparation, ESL courses, and adult basic education. Accredited programs help students improve literacy, obtain high school equivalency, and develop foundational skills for career advancement or further education.
People
Michelle Engel-Silva
Chief Executive Officer
Leading Proteus with over 25 years of nonprofit management experience, Michelle drives strategic initiatives to expand services across California's Central Valley while maintaining organizational excellence.
Shawna Rodriguez
Director of Operations
Shawna oversees daily operations and program implementation, ensuring efficient delivery of services across multiple counties while maintaining compliance with funding requirements.
Patty Mullalley
Chief Financial Officer
Patty manages financial operations and resource allocation, bringing 20+ years of experience in nonprofit financial management to ensure fiscal sustainability.
Questions
What populations does Proteus serve?
We specialize in serving farmworkers, migrant populations, low-income families, and individuals seeking workforce development in California's Central Valley.
Are your educational programs accredited?
Yes, our William M. Maguy School of Education holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Council on Occupational Education.
How do I qualify for job training programs?
Eligibility depends on income guidelines, residency, and specific program requirements. Contact us for detailed qualification criteria.
Do you offer online learning options?
We primarily offer in-person training but provide some hybrid components and career counseling services online.
What energy assistance programs are available?
Our Energy Division provides home assessments, appliance replacements, and utility bill assistance through state and federal programs.
How can I apply for scholarships?
Scholarship applications are available online with specific deadlines. We offer multiple opportunities for eligible students from farmworker families.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Demetria Rhodes
Apr 28, 2019
Report
PROTEUSInc.org Proteus 661-674-4051 Lancaster, CA Office closed in early 2018 Edison Leads can not get through to office, I was cut off CARE program because of the and I am disabled.
Rigo Aguirre
Nov 09, 2017
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Without warning fired the whole Lancaster office. Dedicated employees of decades, there way of livelihood gone like we are worthless individuals. No dignity spared.
Marilyn J.
Mar 21, 2014
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I just wanted to thank everyone at Proteus for helping me with my outdated air conditioning/furnace, swamp cooler and last but not least, the water heater that just went out, not only are they professional, do quality work, but they are kind and considerate. When the water heater broke on a Wednesday, they cut through all the red tape and got me up and running again by Monday, I couldn't be more appreciative.
A special thanks to Hector, Eric and Salvatore, and all the rest of the crew, and the nice ladies in the office! I am a single retired woman, trying to live on a social security check, which doesn't go far, so this has been a blessing I still can't believe! Thank you so much!
A special thanks to Hector, Eric and Salvatore, and all the rest of the crew, and the nice ladies in the office! I am a single retired woman, trying to live on a social security check, which doesn't go far, so this has been a blessing I still can't believe! Thank you so much!
