PHX Reporter

As Community College Month progresses, Maricopa Community Colleges are emphasizing their role in bolstering Arizona's workforce through various program offerings and collaborations with industry leaders. College officials, local lawmakers, and business executives gathered this week to spotlight training programs and workforce initiatives in demand.

These events underscore the importance of community colleges as key pathways to higher education and career opportunities. Maricopa Community Colleges, a ten-college system, provides accessible learning and hands-on training, connecting with businesses to create programs that meet the state's labor needs.

On April 16, Congressman Greg Stanton toured Mesa Community College's nursing facilities and automation labs, highlighting the educational system's contribution to Arizona's essential workforce and advanced manufacturing industries.

Maricopa Community Colleges, as the state's largest integrated healthcare education system, offer over 70 Health Sciences programs and produce nearly one-third of Arizona's nurses. Students can pursue an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing at eight colleges within the system. Those with an AAS can transfer to GateWay Community College for a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN).

The Automated Industrial Technology (AIT) program at Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) and Mesa Community College prepares students for careers in advanced manufacturing, collaborating with companies like Boeing and Raytheon. Graduates can enter the workforce within weeks or pursue an associate degree.

On April 17, leaders from EMCC and Rio Salado College announced new apprenticeships with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) alongside Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. Arizona's semiconductor sector requires a skilled workforce, and Maricopa Community Colleges offer 31 related certificate and degree programs.

Through the Semiconductor Technician Quick Start, students can train for entry-level positions in 10 days at various colleges, with plans to expand the program supported by Natcast funding. The Future48 Workforce Accelerator will enhance training with a full-size mock clean room.

Arizona's workforce is projected to grow by 115,000 jobs by 2030, with significant earning potential. Maricopa Community Colleges remain central to regional workforce development through continued industry collaboration and educational offerings. More information can be found at maricopa.edu/indstry.