Arizona QUEST program is helping people get back into the workforce as soon as possible

YUMA, Arizona (KYMA, KECY) – If you’ve lost your job due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Arizona Western College (AWC) has programs to help you find your next career.

Arizona Quality Jobs, Equity, Strategy, and Training (QUEST) prepares students for jobs in high-demand fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology.

AWC President Dr. Daniel Corr said he is proud to partner with ARIZONA@WORK to meet the needs of Yuma County residents.

“It’s great for Yuma County because being able to withdraw and sustain business and create a thriving community in Yuma depends on a well-trained workforce. , is an opportunity for people looking for upskilling or reskilling opportunities,” says Dr. Koh.

All tuition fees are covered once you are qualified and enrolled in the program.

“Regardless of the cost, 100% of it will be paid through this amazing grant opportunity,” continues Dr. Corr.

This is considered a Fast Track certification program.

Elaine Groggett, AWC’s Director of Curriculum, Assessment and Scheduling, says the length of the program depends on the job you want.

“The broadband fiber optic training is four weeks, and most of their book work is actually online, and they come to do the hands-on skills part,” says Groggett. “But we try to keep him between four to eight weeks to 12 weeks for him, and some last a little longer.”

AWC hopes this will help people get back to work sooner and achieve academic success.

“So we try to get them started, but a lot of these are academic courses, so you can always come back and get an associate’s degree,” Groggett says. said.

Individuals over the age of 18 are eligible and must provide evidence of being affected by the pandemic at the time of application.

This all came full circle after the Department of Labor awarded Arizona QUEST a $15 million grant in the fall of 2022.

In addition to Yuma County, five other counties have also benefited from the joint initiative: Cochise, Maricopa, Mojave/La Paz, Pima, and Yavapai.

Enrollment began this spring, but Dr. Corr says it can begin at any time. In most cases, you don’t have to wait for the next semester.

“We are a provider of workforce training in Yuma. Whether this grant is for you or not, we have something here. to take care of,” Dr. Koh adds. .

You can find details and how to register here.