In a significant move to bolster Arizona’s construction workforce, Governor Katie Hobbs, in collaboration with the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO), has announced a $1 million investment in the BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative. This funding aims to equip Arizonans with essential skills for construction and trade jobs, focusing on recruiting women into these sectors.
Launched in 2023, BuildItAZ has already made notable strides toward the administration’s goal of doubling the number of registered construction and trade apprentices by 2026. The initiative enrolled over 1,000 new apprentices in its first year, reflecting a growing interest in these fields.
The newly allocated $1 million in federal workforce funds will support registered apprenticeship programs in several key areas:
- Enhancing efforts to attract new apprentices and retain those already enrolled.
- Providing wrap-around services such as childcare and transportation ensures apprentices can fully participate in their training.
- Launching public information campaigns to encourage more Arizonans, especially women, to pursue careers in construction and trades.
“We are continuing to build a strong construction talent pipeline to meet the demands of our growing state,” said Governor Hobbs. “Apprenticeships open up economic opportunities for Arizonans, are jobs from day one, pay good wages, and teach people valuable skills that pave the way to family-supporting careers.”
The initial phase of BuildItAZ invested approximately $650,000, assisting five organizations in expanding registered apprenticeship training opportunities. This funding directly supported over 500 apprentices by providing essential resources such as tools, boots, books, tuition, and program support, including training equipment and instructors.
“The grant has improved our ability to provide high-quality electrical training,” said Shawn Hutchinson of the Phoenix Electrical JATC Apprenticeship Program, a BuildItAZ grantee. “We’ve enhanced our curriculum, integrating more hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology. This helps us produce the most qualified and safety-conscious electrical workers in the industry.”
The construction industry plays a pivotal role in Arizona’s economic development. By investing in apprenticeship programs, the state is addressing the immediate need for skilled labor and laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth. Apprenticeships allow individuals to earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials that lead to well-paying, stable careers.
Moreover, the focus on recruiting women into these programs is a significant step toward diversifying the workforce and promoting inclusivity within the industry. By providing support services such as childcare, the initiative aims to remove barriers that may have previously hindered participation from underrepresented groups.
As Arizona grows, the demand for a skilled construction workforce becomes increasingly critical. The BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative represents a proactive approach to meeting this demand, ensuring the state’s infrastructure development keeps pace with its economic expansion.
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