The Ready Tech Go initiative is a partnership between employers at six community college districts in Arizona designed to help prepare students for careers in manufacturing.
The Automated Industrial Training program offers a short-term training that gives learners the skills to be ready to enter the workforce, all while advancing in their degree’s program. This initiative is all part of Arizona’s ultimate goal to attract more locals to the technology and robotics industries.
Mary Foote, Director of Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, joined “Arizona Horizon” to discuss the programs initiative and what’s next.
Through a grant, Foote says that the initiative will be expanded to more rural areas that have a need for advanced manufacturing.
The program includes focusing into areas such as mining, semiconductors and more. This short-term program is not just for students, but also for those looking to change careers.
“We have a lot of data that’s telling us, there’s going to be more than 200,000 jobs in advanced manufacturing by 2030. And so it’s a great opportunity for somebody looking for a sector that has growth opportunities,” Foote said.
Those in the training program can earn certifications in as soon as two weeks. They can then begin working while continuing to complete trainings so they can “earn while you learn”, according to Foote.
The community colleges involved in the program have established connections with companies such as TSMC and Raytheon. Foote shared a but about what these companies are sharing with the colleges.
“We’re hearing that they need employees, right? So really part of our goal is to ensure that we’re meeting the forecasted needs in advanced manufacturing. So we know that there is a demand and so what we can do to provide resources and empower colleges to get the curriculum and the people educated to meet that demand,” Foote said.
