Southeast Working Group Meeting: Meeting Summary: Opening Statement and Closing Remarks September 17, 2014

Transcription

1 Southeast Working Group Meeting: Meeting Summary: Opening Statement and Closing Remarks Call to Order, Introduction and Overview of Revitalizing the Southeast Community Facility (SECF): Programming and Design Innovations Opening Plenary Meeting Overview (Leamon Abrams, SEWG Facilitator) This objective of the sixth meeting of the Southeast Working Group (SEWG) is to obtain input on how the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) can revitalize the Southeast Community Facility in two ways: (1) exterior and interior design and aesthetic improvements, and (2) programmatic use of available space. The SFPUC is interested in how new potential uses can complement and leverage the existing activities/programs at the facility. This is one of the meetings planned to discuss this topic and the SFPUC is also interested in how the information is presented and to gather suggestions of future outreach. Because SEWG members expressed value in the type of small group discussions used in the August, this meeting will also employ small breakout group discussion followed by a plenary session to capture common themes, ideas and determine next steps. Introduction: Leapfrogging to Innovation and Opportunity in the Southeast (Juliet Ellis, AGM, External Affairs) AGM Juliet Ellis greeted the group and emphasized that the SFPUC is committed to making the Southeast Community Facility (SECF) a modern facility that meets the current and future needs of residents. The SFPUC wants to share some conceptual planning ideas and get input from community stakeholders on the proposed direction of the physical improvements and use of un-programmed space in the facility. Mrs. Ellis underscored the need for career pathways for community residents and cited unemployment statistics that indicates citywide unemployment at approximately 4.5%; while the rate in the southeast sector of the city is nearly 12%. She stated that Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) oriented careers are growing at twice the rate as non-stem jobs. The Bay Area is fast approaching a shortage of 1.3 million entry-level Information Technology (IT) workers so the need for career paths in this area is crucial. The concept is to use the un-programmed space to leverage what programs and services City College (as the anchor tenant) and the other building tenants are currently providing in a way that takes advantage of San Francisco s unique cluster of employers and industries. She expressed optimism about the potential for some type of technology hub, but reiterated that the concept would be discussed with community stakeholders, and this is an important first step in that process. Break-out Session Overview (Theodore Miller, Senior Advisor, SFPUC/Mayor s Office) In order to maximize participation and discussion, the structure of the meeting would allow everyone to visit four (4) small group stations and hear about (1) conceptual aesthetics/design elements and (2) technology-driven programming concepts for the renovated SECF. At each station, a subject matter expert would be present to discuss concepts, answer questions and receive input from the participants. At the end of the small group discussions, all would reassemble for a group discussion to share general reactions, observations, and issues not captured. 1

2 Southeast Working Group Meeting: Meeting Summary: Opening Statement and Closing Remarks Theo gave several examples of community-driven programs and opportunities where the community designs and participates in technology and entrepreneurship opportunities. Black Girls Code, Hack the Hood and Code Now were mentioned examples and potential models to build on in designing programs that provide access to people of color for careers in computer coding. A partnership between Thurgood Marshall High School, Galileo and Zynga was mentioned as a community-driven program that offers students the opportunity to learn about digital and mobile gaming, and inspires young people to consider careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). NewMe, an accelerator and small-business incubator founded by Angela Benton, was another example given of a communitydriven program where entrepreneurs of color receive coaching, access to seed funding, and are exposed to pathways to take their business from an idea to a viable entity. The subject matter experts for the meeting are: 1. Arts and Aesthetics - Shelby Campbell, Construction and Design Project Manager with SFPUC 2. Computer Coding Certification Programs Spencer Butterfield, Teacher/Trainer with Black Girls Code and the National Society of Black Engineers 3. Digital and Mobile Gaming - Elijah Butterfield, Teacher /Trainer with Black Girls Code, Hack the Hood and the National Society of Black Engineers 4. Technology-Driven Entrepreneur Linda Parker Pennington, Independent Consultant with emphasis in venture capital with a client list that includes: Google, Facebook and Apple Closing Plenary Shelby Campbell provided in overview of the design elements and treatments under consideration for the exterior and interior renovation of the SECF. She explained that there were several meetings and engagement activities that informed the conceptual design boards on display. In prior meetings, surveys and public input, the overwhelming response sentiment is that the building lacks energy and needs to be activated. From this feedback the following elements were conceptualized and illustrated in the design boards: A single access entrance that connects all nodes of the building; Direct all traffic flow through the lobby; Clear and open stair access to upper and lower floors; Replacing the atrium area with a public gathering pace (café or lounge space); Bringing the now exterior ADA ramp indoors with the ability to move to all wings of the building though indoor common spaces; Solving the heat gains on the south and west fronts of the buildings by installing vertical window awnings which would add an element of color to the building; Interior glazing to be able to see the activity happening in the building (e.g. the Alex Pitcher Room from the lobby) and Improving the acoustics in the Alex Pitcher Room with fabric banners and for the thermal comfort, removing the floor tiles and adding radiant heat floors. The facilitator experts were thanked for their contributions in leading the group discussions. Theo facilitated an open discussion to allow meeting attendees to give additional comments and feedback: Aesthetics Make the SECF a HUB for the Bayview 2

3 Southeast Working Group Meeting: Meeting Summary: Opening Statement and Closing Remarks Develop opportunities for shared space Assist the SECF to be self-sufficient while also providing career opportunities for residents Programming General Inspirational Go big or go home (i.e. put adequate investment to make the effort successful) Important to have CCSF partnership open dialogue with Dean, create synergies with current tenants Create a HUB and a safe haven Stay on the cutting edge and give students, and community, increased opportunities It is important for training programs to have a direct path to jobs Create opportunities for on the job training programs Identify partnerships with companies/corporations Offer basic computer skills to help residents build a technical foundation Create trainings that integrate basic skills learning that are directly tied to the program Build the foundation for a variety of opportunities not just tech- maintenance, marketing etc. Focus on basics- computer skills & business skills Replicate successful models- bring in people to help build capacity, but focus on creating specialized programs just for the Bayview Process/ Acknowledge past conversations with the community and past uses of space Dedicated meetings and time for further in-depth conversations Connect with youth and other CBOs on needs and wants for the space Execute focus groups with people who will actually be using the facility Open conversations about programming More partnership with the Mayor s office and OEWD Increased transparency on what is coming into the community Decisions: how does the public get involved & support the development of criteria for making decisions Following up on the incredibly helpful conversation at the Southeast Working Group a few weeks ago, we anticipate further community conversations around tech-driven pathways at the SECF over the next several months. If you would like to receive invitations to any of the below outreach events, please let Art know and we will be in touch as dates are finalized. Please also let us know if you have any additional outreach suggestions or particular organizations that you believe should be included in this engagement and community conversation. Youth-Centered Engagement and Outreach o Participation and Conversation with high school students at SFUSD BSU Summit (10/16 at California State Building) o Presentation and Surveys/Outreach at Tech Diversity Forum (in partnership w/ MOAD Vanguard) o Participation and Focus Groups at Elementary/Middle School Youth Innovation Summit, Next Is Now o Community Town Hall and Youth Forum (likely in partnership with the Youth Commission, Old Skool Café and 100% College Prep) 3

4 Southeast Working Group Meeting: Meeting Summary: Opening Statement and Closing Remarks o Surveying of City College Students and prospects (with possible focus groups) Community Stakeholder Conversations o Presentation to the Bayview CAC at Bayview Library o Meetings and Presentations to the SECF Facility Sub Committee o Meeting and Presentation to SF Chapter of NAACP o Meeting and Presentation to SF Interfaith Council SECF Commission - Meeting and Presentation of Findings SFPUC Commission - Meeting and Presentation of Findings 4

5 Southeast Working Group Meeting Breakout Group Summary: Computer Coding OVERVIEW Computer coding skills are increasingly necessary across all major industries, even in nursing, criminal justice, communications or business. Computer code training generally refers to the programming used to provide a sequence of instructions that will automate the performance of a specific task or solve a given problem via a computational device. Coding is what makes it possible for to create computer software, apps and websites. Computer coding programs for entry-level information technology careers are intensive 4-6 month software training programs or boot camps. With a base of high school algebra, code training programs expose students to computer basics, programming fundamentals and language, html, javascript, programming theory, and mobile applications. DISCUSSION ISSUES Recurring Themes and Create partnerships with current technology companies to support coding programs Continue to engage and find synergies between training programs with current tenants, e.g. CCSF Code program training/certification needs to provide a direct pipeline to actual jobs The program training must be specialized with a focus on the needs of Southeast residents There is an urgent need for foundational computer skills training in the Bayview Initial Reactions from Participants Technical training was an original focus of the SECF and a welcome return Computer literacy is key to more than just technology jobs and more is needed in the SECF Coursework and programming offered should be directed to job opportunities in the Bay Area General computer skills learned through code training programs can be utilized in other employment opportunities Ways to Operationalize in Bayview/Southeast Look for companies who are willing to come to the facility and teach Establish relationships with technoogy firms and other companies to create pipelines from the SECF training programs to jobs Summary of Summer institute specialized accelerated programming outside of the school year Program success will occur when there is a solid connection to businesses and their commitment to hiring trainees Expand current CCSF programs to align with the Tech Hub programming concept Programming should also emphasis overall computer literacy and skills training Other Additional training and program ideas expressed: Medical technology Database Html: website boot camp UNIX Java Script Computer and server maintenance Contact Theodore Miller, TMiller@sfwater.org or

6 Southeast Working Group Meeting Summary Breakout Group: Arts and Aesthetics OVERVIEW Since its opening in 1986, the Southeast Community Facility (SECF) has not been significantly improved. In 2011, the SFPUC initiated a process to better understand potential uses and improvement needs. Based on this input, the SFPUC has completed Phase I of the physical renovations (improvements to the Phelps Wing with two new classrooms, a conference room and new administrative space) and is preparing to undertake Phase II, which will reflect possible new programming. The Phase II renovations will transform the building into a more welcoming, vibrant community-asset by among other things, improving way-finding, upgrading mechanical and building systems, acoustics, technological functionality and transforming common spaces in the building. Completion is scheduled for SEWG members were asked to provide input on two planned areas of improvements, art and aesthetics. Art displays are conceptualized for the renovation and will include the installation of permanent art pieces by artists selected by the Arts Commission; a rotating art space featuring local artists is also under consideration. For the aesthetics preliminary draft designs include new building entry, exterior and interior treatments, and energizing common areas through a potential café. The tenants recruited for the un-programmed space will have certain specification needs and the planning and design elements will address those needs. DISCUSSION ISSUES Recurring Themes and Summary of Improving the building s technology would be a great addition to the facility. Improving the lighting, acoustics, and temperature comfort in the building spaces would add to the welcoming feel desired for the facility. Art: Reactions to rotating gallery of local artist and permanent art installations was very positive Aesthetics: Reactions to the conceptual renderings was overwhelmingly positive specifically the stair case and the window shades Initial Reactions from Participants Use the Dog Patch Hub as a best practices model for the Bayview Tech Hub. If it has already been done, use what worked and what did not work during their hub development Identify a funding source for supporting and monitoring an accessible community computer lab Determine the process for deciding who the new tenants will be and engage a broader group of stakeholders in the vetting and decision-making process There original promises associated with the SECF that were made and should be delivered upon. E.g. Community was told that heat would be bio-generated by thermal from SEP if this is true it should be mentioned in the renovation outreach and engagement process. Ways to Operationalize in Bayview/Southeast Identify the elements used for the 525 Headquarter interior build-out and use similar elements on the Renovation of the SECF, for example: interior lighting elements, radiant heat flooring, photovoltaic ceiling, fresh paint, tile or manufactured wood for flooring and the use of glass and glazing to open up spaces. Improve technology: o o o Design space to accommodate access and use of the latest technology Conference Room and meeting space should have access to the latest technology (drop down screen/projector, smart boards) Focus on the visitor experience

7 Southeast Working Group Meeting Summary Breakout Group: Arts and Aesthetics Digital wall in lobby Ambient sounds/music Income generating spaces of space: o Common areas should have multiple uses for example: using common spaces for public classes, designing café or lounge to host public and private events o The Alex Pitcher Room needs to be more flexible space for public and private events. (more spaces to rent for income generating opportunities) o Expand grey water infrastructure installation the surrounding into neighborhood Connect existing grey water infrastructure to SECF o Have tours as a promotion of new SECF building model tour after 525 headquarter tours Tours can model green infrastructure building elements Tours can be used as a learning model for people entering and already in the building trades Further Feedback Possibilities o Create an outreach strategy to gathering additional feedback from younger and adult audiences in the community o Better define the role for community involvement in deciding future tenants and how they plan to use space in the facility o Assess interest in shared workspaces for new and existing tenants (similar to o Contractors Assistance Center) Identify third-party partners, (e.g. identify a funding source for the public computer lab If City College is the anchor institution, a strategy should be developed to engage the students on the design. Contact Shelby Campbell, scampbell@sftwater.org or (415)

8 Southeast Working Group Meeting Breakout Group Summary: Digital and Mobile Gaming OVERVIEW Gaming is a generic term for any amusement or recreation using a stand-alone video game, desktop computer or the internet with one or more players. Digital and Mobile Gaming refers to the industry that creates digital games for mobile devices such as smart phones, ipads, tablet PC s, and portable media players. Advances in technology have seen a significant increase in the number of mobile devices with gaming capability. Video games are a near $30 billion industry in the US. Game designers work with a comprehensive team to develop and design digital and mobile games. The industry has a variety of career opportunities in the areas of: arts (digital and non-digital), business, computer programming, audio/visual, design, production, and quality assurance. While a bachelor degree in game design, computer engineering, or computer science are a norm in the industry, there are associate degree and certificate programs that allow entry level access into the field. DISCUSSION ISSUES Recurring Themes and Summary of Broad agreement that there are economic opportunities for the Southeast community in the gaming industry Suggested defining a clear pathway to employment for individuals undertaking Digital and Mobile Gaming training Underscored the current academic capacity and motivation of youth who might want to participate/engage in a gaming academy or preparation and the complementary support services needed to address barriers to entry Initial Reactions from Participants: Potential for a fast track to a high income career may be a selling point to residents in Bayview (i.e. careers without the need for a college degree) Programs must have clear and concrete pathways to paid experiences/employment opportunities after training Academic capacity of District 10 youth (particularly proficiency needed in math and science) may prevent access to technical education programming and ways to address this should be considered Challenges attracting low-income youth in technology program opportunities Engagement strategy for adults in the field of Gaming may be a challenge. Ways to Operationalize in Bayview/Southeast Community Based Organizations (CBOs) and educational institutions must be involved in helping residents with the basics needed for computer technology this will lay the ground work for entry into the Tech Hub Outreach and collaboration across organizations and programs can support the above Further Feedback Possibilities Engage organizations currently providing Tech Education programs and services to understand and adopt best practices Engage school district and other educators so that they can align their programming and support the proposed offerings at the SECF Contact Theodore Miller, TMiller@sfwater.org or

9 Southeast Working Group Meeting Breakout Group: Technology Entrepreneurship OVERVIEW Entrepreneurship by definition is creating a product or service to meet the demands of a targeted group of people. These products and services can be anything from designing a website to inventing a pill to cure a common ailment. In the technology industry, entrepreneurs are typically small business owners at the early proof of concept stage. Accelerators or incubators are enterprises that are set up to provide support with office space, equipment, mentoring and coaching, and capital to new start-up businesses. Companies that go through a business incubator stage generally have a much higher success rate than those that do not. For potential programming the SEWG members discussed the concept of technology focused entrepreneurship space. DISCUSSION ISSUES Recurring Themes and Summary of A comprehensive outreach strategy about technology-driven entrepreneurship opportunities targeted for youth is needed and could be undertaken through anchor institutions in the community. There are existing community partners with complementary expertise that the SFPUC should collaborate with. The path to technology-driven entrepreneurship will be a challenge for certain individuals (e.g. those with no high school diploma, criminal records, etc.), and support services to prepare individuals will be needed in these cases. Initial Reactions from Participants The proposed approach to technology-driven entrepreneurship opportunities is a great idea and long overdue for the Bayview community The agency should use a certification academy like Year Up as a model benchmark for setting up the Tech Hub An accelerator and/or incubator program may work; however the upfront investment needs to be appropriate in order to achieve program success To experience some initial success, begin the program on a small scale and ramp up as positive outcomes are experienced (Start with and incubator and grow to an accelerator) Ways to Operationalize in Bayview/Southeast A large scale, strategic outreach strategy is needed Create a safe neutral zone to engage Bayview residents Develop an outreach strategy targeted at o Middle school aged youth o Youth ages years old o Residents age years old with criminal records Take interested youth and residents on tours of technology office buildings and facilities so that they can see the production in action The technology used for training should be cutting edge and mirror the technological capabilities used on the job The entrepreneurship technology-driven program should provide the opportunity for community residents to invest (capital) in the start-up Tailor the program to the needs of the community meet them where they are at Further Feedback Possibilities Attend the 3 rd Thursdays (3 rd on Third) events and survey/gather input from residents

10 Southeast Working Group Meeting Breakout Group: Technology Entrepreneurship Develop an outreach strategy to the faith-based community to engage them in the planning process Outreach to existing youth programs e.g. Coleman Advocates, Digital Action Club, BAYCAT, etc. Engage local celebrities to promote and support the programmatic approach (e.g. MC Hammer / Eric Moore) Outreach to John O Connell High School to gage student s interest in the Tech Hub concept Create a partnership with 5Keys Charter School and gage the interest of careers in technology with the population they serve Contact: Rene Willette, rwillette@sfwater.org or

11 Strongly Strongly Southeast Working Group Meeting Summary Survey Responses 1. Cre a ting tra ining p ro g ra ms ta rg e ting the te chno lo g y ind ustrie s fo r a va ila b le sp a ce in the SECF is a g o o d stra te g y to co nne ct So uthe a st 7. T he p ro p o se d p hysica l imp ro ve me nts to the Ale x Pitche r Room a nd the e ntrywa y lo b b y will he lp cre a te a mo re vib ra nt a nd we lco ming fe e l to the 56.3% 9 Strongly 56.3% % % 7 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 Strongly 0.0% 0 answered question 16 answered question 16 skipped question 0 skipped question 0 2. A co nso rtium o f te na nts tha t p ro vid e te chno lo g y-d rive n ca re e r p a thwa ys for Southeast residents would be an important resource for the community. Strongly Strongly 8. How like ly wo uld yo u use a ca fé sho uld o ne b e lo ca te d in the Southeast Community Facility? 31.3% 5 Very likely 56.3% % 11 Somewhat likely 31.3% 5 0.0% % 2 0.0% 0 Somewhat unlikely 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 Very unlikely 0.0% 0 answered question 16 answered question 16 skipped question 0 skipped question 0 3. Fo cusing o n te na nts with e xp e rtise in g a ming wo uld he lp a d d vib ra ncy to the SECF and connect residents to training opportunities. Strongly Strongly 9. Bring ing hig h sp e e d inte rne t a nd fre e W i-fi to the SECF is e xtre me ly imp o rta nt. 25.0% 4 Strongly 75.0% % % % 6 0.0% % 3 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 Strongly 0.0% 0 answered question 16 answered question 16 skipped question 0 skipped question 0 4. Fo cusing o n te na nts with e xp e rtise in co mp ute r co d ing wo uld he lp a d d vib ra ncy to the SECF a nd co nne ct re sid e nts to tra ining a nd ce rtifica tio n Strongly Strongly 10. How like ly wo uld yo u visit a ro ta ting a rts a nd culture e xhib it sp a ce, sho uld such a sp a ce b e cre a te d a t the SECF? 25.0% 4 Very likely 18.8% % 5 Somewhat likely 56.3% % 6 6.3% 1 6.3% 1 Somewhat unlikely 18.8% 3 0.0% 0 Very unlikely 0.0% 0 answered question 16 answered question 16 skipped question 0 skipped question 0 5. Fo cusing o n te na nts with e xp e rtise in te chno lo g y d rive n e ntre p re ne urship wo uld he lp a d d vib ra ncy to the SECF a nd co nne ct 11. Which range includes your age? Strongly 18.8% 3 Under % % % % % 0 6.3% % 3 Strongly 0.0% % 2 answered question % 8 skipped question % 2 65 or older 6.3% 1 Prefer not to answer 0.0% 0 6. T he e xte rio r o f the So uthe a st Co mmunity Fa cility is in ne e d o f answered question 16 improvements and revitalization. skipped question 0 Strongly 50.0% % 6 0.0% W ha t is yo ur g e nd e r? 12. W ha t is 12. W ha t is 12.5% 2 Answe r Op tio ns Strongly 0.0% 0 Male 43.8% 7 answered question 16 Female 56.3% 9 skipped question 0 Prefer not to answer 0.0% 0 answered question skipped question Fo llo wing this me e ting, I ha ve a b e tte r und e rsta nd ing o f the SFPUC s Strongly 31.3% % % 3 0.0% 0 Strongly 0.0% answered question skipped question