State initiative expands industrialized manufacturing training to rural Arizonans
May 28
A new partnership with community colleges and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs’ office is expanding to create more job opportunities for rural students.
The initiative called ReadyTechGo will help train students for jobs in the manufacturing sector. Participants can receive short-term training and education credits through the Automated Industrial Training (AIT) program offered at community colleges.
Students can be prepared for a new role in as little as two weeks through a fast-paced curriculum. Enrolled students also have the opportunity to obtain certifications in fields such as electric vehicles, semiconductors, medical devices and aerospace.
Additionally, students can complete a full program in two years, while obtaining an associates degree, depending on the area of study.
The goal of the partnership is to draw in more people into the robotics and automated technology industries to help fill thousands of positions at major tech companies.
Major employers such as TSMC, Boeing, Lucid Motors, LG Energy Solutions, Purina, and Raytheon are looking to fill positions.
More than 162,000 jobs across the state are provided by manufacturing companies across Phoenix and Tucson and the demand for employees continues to grow.
“ReadyTechGo is the latest of several statewide initiatives to boost advanced manufacturing jobs in our state. Thanks to key collaborations among leaders in government, industry, and education, Arizona has become a desirable location for large employers,” Hobbs said in a press release. ReadyTechGo will be instrumental in continuing that work and ensuring our workforce is ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow.
Which colleges partner with ReadyTechGo?
- Central Arizona College
- Coconino College
- Estrella Mountain Community College
- Mesa Community College
- Mohave College
- Pima Community College
- Yavapai College
Once students complete a certification within the AIT program at any of the participating colleges, it can open doors to a high-wage career in advanced manufacturing. The quick-paced program can save students time and money, while swiftly filling high-demand jobs.
The average salary of a robotics technician in Maricopa County is $75,000, according to the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity.
A key focus of the initiative is to give access to all Arizonans, specifically prospective students living in rural areas.
“At Coconino Community College, we see ReadyTechGo as a gateway for our local talent to access Arizona’s rapidly evolving technology sector,” Coconino Community College Vice President of Academic Affairs Sandra Tarbell said. “This initiative brings invaluable training opportunities to our community, giving students from traditional learners to working adults the practical skills required for today’s most in-demand manufacturing careers.”
Reporting by “Arizona Horizon” Education Solutions Reporter Roxanne De La Rosa. Her role is made possible through grant funding from the Arizona Local News Foundation’s Arizona Community Collaborative Fund and Report for America.
