Governor Katie Hobbs announced that $1.7 million in state funding has been invested in developing talent in science, technology, engineering and math programs at Pima Community College.
Part of that money helped build the Center for Automotive Technology Innovation, a new facility to train future automotive engineers at the University of Tucson’s downtown campus. This year’s state budget also includes $2 million for university operations.
Prior to Mr. Hobbes’ tour of the automotive facility, she learned about Arizona’s place as an “episode” of emerging technologies such as semiconductors, electric vehicles and aerospace, and community colleges in training the workforce for these jobs. talked about the role of
“To keep up with this pace, the state needs to create higher education and training opportunities that will prepare Arizonans for these jobs,” Hobbs said, referring to the trucks and cars that opened the hood to reveal the engine. said as he stood at the automotive training center surrounded by rows of
She said it was the first time since 2015 that the university has received state funding.
The Automotive Technology Innovation Center is a 50,000-square-foot, two-story building opening in 2021. It hosts automotive technology programs for diesel, electric and autonomous vehicles, as well as training for brands such as Ford, Fiat Chrysler and Subaru.
The $35 million advanced manufacturing facility is 100,000 square feet and houses programs in mining technology, manufacturing, metalworking, robotics and mechanical engineering.
Hobbs said these training programs will help meet industry demand and help attract more companies to Arizona.
“If we have the workforce, we will continue to attract businesses,” she said.
Hobbes reiterated the importance of community colleges to Arizona’s education system and economy, noting that funding for Pima College would ensure that state funding would help not just the capital, but all of Arizona.
“By investing that money in investing in our workforce, we could bring that opportunity to Pima County and Tucson,” Hobbs said.
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