Yuma, Arizona (February 27, 2025) – today, Arizona Western Entrepreneurs University I broke the ground at Future48 Workforce Accelerator in Wellton, Arizona. The 5,600-square-foot multi-purpose training facility will be equipped at the Wellton Manufacturing Training Center. Arizona Western College (AWC) Provides training in electrical technology, advanced manufacturing, broadband optics, and solar power generation.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs celebrated the groundbreaking event by joining Dr. Daniel Cole, president of Arizona Western College, AWC Leadership, Arizona Director of Commerce, Local Government, Academic Leader and Accelerator Construction Partners.

“This groundbreaking marks an important step towards all bright futures in Yuma County and Arizona,” Gov. Katie Hobbs said. “I’m proud to be able to support initiatives like The Future48 Workforce Accelerator. By investing in our people through higher education, we not only strengthen our communities, but also promote innovation and economic growth throughout the state. ”

“We are pleased to announce that we are committed to providing a range of services to our team,” said Reetika Dhawan, CEO of Arizona Western Entrepreneurial College and Vice President of Arizona Western College’s Workforce and Healthcare Programs. “By strategically aligning with the aerospace and defense, advanced manufacturing and telecom industry, this initiative will acquire cutting-edge skills in local talent, attract new investments and strengthen Yuma County’s position as an innovation and technology hub. With education, industry collaboration and commitment to workforce development, the accelerator will not only empower individuals, but will boost the entire community and ensure the long-term prosperity of Arizona’s economy.”

Sandra Watson, president and CEO of Arizona’s Commerce Bureau, said: “Wellton’s Future48 Workforce Accelerator provides hands-on skills training to prepare students for careers in the region’s high-growth industry. We are grateful to Governor Hobbs, AWC President Dr. Col and Arizona Western College, as well as all industry partners for their continued collaboration and support in continuing to grow our employees.”

Specialized training and equipment will improve the skill level of the local workforce and prepare students for careers in the rapidly expanding high-tech industry throughout the Yuma region. Program development will be strategically customized to meet the needs of AWC industry partners such as Trax International, U.S. Army Yuma Certification Site, General Motor Certification Site, and Gowan Company, Allo Fiber, D&H Electric, Sunray Electric, and Yuma Electric.

Accelerators are supported by an investment of $3.6 million from Arizona Bureau of Commerce (ACA) Design, build and equip future manufacturing facilities. The building will be designed by local engineering company Sternco Engineers and constructed by Pilkington Construction Company.

“We are excited to complete this project and expand the Wellton Manufacturing Training Center!” Trax International MTTS manager Randy Polage said, “The facility will enhance the AWC’s ability to provide the critical skills needed for Yuma’s technical workers to stay competitive in the future and support the community and the military!”

Future48 Workforce Accelerators in Arizona, supported through a $30 million investment from the ACA, is working with local community colleges to build sophisticated manufacturing training facilities across the state. The Yuma Accelerator follows Mesa’s previously announced Aerospace and Defense Accelerators. Phoenix semiconductor accelerator. Pinal County Battery Accelerator. Kingman manufacturing accelerator.

Media Contact

Mandy Heil, Arizona Western College, [email protected]

Alyssa Tufts, Arizona Department of Commerce, [email protected]

About Arizona Commerce Officer

The Arizona Department of Commerce (ACA) is the state’s leading economic development organization with a streamlined mission to grow and strengthen Arizona’s economy. The ACA uses a three-tier approach to advance the entire economy. Working with existing companies to expand your business in Arizona and beyond. Help entrepreneurs create new Arizona businesses in their target industries. For more information, visit azcommerce.com and follow X’s ACA @azcommerce.