Department of Energy awards AWC $2 million for clean energy job training
January 10, 2024Partnership between AWC, ASU, and the Institute of American Apprenticeship to grow regional skilled workforce
Yuma, AZ (January 10, 2024) – The U.S. Department of Energy has announced Arizona Western College as the recipient of $2 million in funding from President Joe Biden’s Investing in America agenda to increase clean energy workforce training and meet the industry’s growing demand for skilled workers.
AWC was selected as one of 17 Industrial Assessment Centers (IAC) to provide hands-on job training for clean energy careers while helping industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities save energy, improve performance, and reduce emissions. IACs deliver technical assistance and conduct assessments at small- and medium-sized manufacturer (SMMs) and commercial and institutional buildings. They provide engaging learning opportunities for students and union apprentices while identifying opportunities to reduce facility energy bills. Programs also offer training and upskilling opportunities for current manufacturing and building energy workers.
AWC will partner with Arizona State University, the Institute of American Apprenticeship (IAA), and workforce industry partners to create opportunities for more students and workers in Yuma and La Paz Counties to enter high‐quality green career pathways (e.g., electrician) and strengthen manufacturers through energy audits. By providing comprehensive instruction in green job pathways like electrical systems, industrial machinery, and industrial process heat, this program will grow the skilled workforce qualified to build and maintain energy infrastructure in Southwestern Arizona, with a focus on developing good-paying green jobs for communities in the region.
“I am extremely proud that Arizona Western College has received U.S. Department of Energy funding to expand clean energy workforce training and enhance manufacturing efficiency in Yuma and La Paz counties. These funds will be leveraged to create the thriving communities we all desire,” said Dr. Daniel Corr, AWC President.
Reetika Dhawan, AWC Entrepreneurial College Chief Executive Officer and Vice President of Workforce & Healthcare Programs, added, “As a community college, we are excited to partner with the U.S. Department of Energy to create a more sustainable future for our communities for generations to come. The IAC program will not only provide valuable training and career opportunities for our students, but it will also contribute to the growth and development of our communities by supporting sustainable practices and reducing our carbon footprint.”
Contact:
Reetika Dhawan
Chief Executive Officer, Entrepreneurial College
Vice President of Workforce & Healthcare Programs
Arizona Western College
Reetika.Dhawan@azwestern.edu
928-344-7567
Contact:
Mandy Heil
Associate Dean of Marketing & Communications
Arizona Western College
Mandy.Heil@azwestern.edu
928-314-9594