PHX Reporter

Maricopa County Community College District's pitch team, led by Dr. Caron Sada from Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC), achieved second place at the 2024 Ratcliff Pitch for Skilled Trades competition in Minneapolis, MN. The team presented an innovative proposal titled "Community of Hats," which earned them a $25,000 prize. The competition was hosted by the Ratcliffe Foundation and the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE).

The "Community of Hats" initiative integrates art, theatre, and other disciplines to equip students with real-world skills applicable to trades such as 3D printing and artificial intelligence. This aligns with PVCC's focus on fostering well-rounded individuals ready for today's workforce.

The event highlighted PVCC's collaborative efforts involving faculty and leaders across the district, including Dr. Kishore Dash, Dr. Steven Crawford, Dr. Bruce McHenry, Dr. Bruce Balfour, and Dr. Elizabeth Cantu.

Dr. Sada remarked on the teamwork behind the project: “All of us who pitched wanted to support the exemplary work of a multi-disciplinary set of PVCC teams including Frank Krevens (Ceramics), Ryan Wentzel (Theater), David Bradley (Ceramics), Lisa Tolentino (Game Design), Paula Crossman (Library), and Jim Sizemore (Engineering).”

Dr. Dash added: “This cross-college collaboration underscores the shared commitment among Maricopa Community Colleges to supporting student success through teamwork, dedication, and a shared passion for innovation.”

The Ratcliff Pitch competition is known for highlighting community college students' entrepreneurial skills and creative problem-solving abilities.

PVCC emphasizes entrepreneurship education through its Entrepreneurship Education Center (EEC). The center provides resources like mentorship and networking opportunities aimed at fostering entrepreneurial growth among students.

To learn more about PVCC's programs or contact Dr. Dash for further information.