PHX Reporter

The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), in association with Pinal County, Central Arizona College, Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), and LG Energy Solution, recently announced the opening of the Future48 Workforce Accelerator in Pinal County, Arizona. This new facility is dedicated to advancing workforce training in the battery industry, supporting LG Energy Solution’s commitment to U.S. electrification and growth in the state’s battery manufacturing sector.

The opening event saw participation from Arizona Commerce Authority President and CEO Sandra Watson, Pinal County Supervisors, Central Arizona College’s President and CEO Dr. Jackie Elliott, and representatives from LG Energy Solution. Key government officials, like Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley, were also in attendance, alongside figures from various architectural and construction firms.

During the event, LG Energy Solution shared updates on their ongoing battery manufacturing facility in Queen Creek. This site will provide employment opportunities to the regional workforce trained through the new accelerator program. As the first cylindrical battery plant of its kind in the U.S., the facility plans to produce cutting-edge 46-Series cylindrical batteries for the automotive industry, offering new high-quality job opportunities.

Governor Katie Hobbs emphasized the role of workforce development in fulfilling the "Arizona Promise", highlighting the collaborative nature of the Future48 Workforce Accelerators in equipping residents with crucial skills for economic advancement. Dr. Jackie Elliott noted that the accelerator will broaden training opportunities and enhance educational outcomes for students in battery manufacturing technology in collaboration with Central Arizona College.

The Accelerator, located at Central Arizona College's Superstition Mountain Campus, covers 19,850 square feet and focuses on the training of cylindrical battery manufacturing for electric vehicles and other uses. Participants aim to transition into roles at LG Energy Solution’s Queen Creek facility post-training. The program includes specialized hands-on instruction and simulations to ensure comprehensive personnel readiness.

Pinal County District 5 Supervisor Jeff Serdy acknowledged the regional need for quality employment, emphasizing the significance of the training center for local residents. Future48 represents the second collaborative training initiative between Central Arizona College and Pinal County, following the 2021 Drive48 launch in Coolidge, targeting the automotive segment.

In addition to the creation of 1,500 new jobs by 2027 as stated by Richard Ra, President of LG Energy Solution Arizona, the accelerator is integral to the state's developing status as a hub for advanced manufacturing. Sandra Watson, CEO of the ACA, highlighted the critical impact of the battery-focused accelerator on preparing students for emerging job opportunities in Arizona.

The Future48 Workforce Accelerators are underpinned by a $30 million investment from the ACA. The initiative aims to develop an extensive network of advanced manufacturing training facilities in cooperation with local community colleges, targeting diverse industries including automotive, battery, and semiconductors.