Wellton Manufacturing Training Center sees enrollment gains
January 24, 2024More growth projected with addition of new programs and facility expansion
Yuma, AZ (January 24, 2024) – In an effort to provide programming that meets community and industry needs, Arizona Western College has seen enrollment almost double at the Wellton Manufacturing Training Center over the past year.
The campus currently offers programming in Electrical, Solar, Fiber Optics, Generator Maintenance and Repair, Hydraulics/Pneumatics, CNC Machining, PLC Programming, Material Sciences, and Construction.
With over 400 students enrolled at the center this semester, that number is expected to continue to rise with the addition of new programs and an upcoming facility expansion through the Yuma Future48 Workforce Accelerator project.
“It’s important for me to say that increasing student numbers is not the primary focus of what we do, but rather an effective tool to measure if our programs are well suited for the needs of our community,” said Jim Larson, AWC Director of Manufacturing.
In addition to serving industry workers seeking to build upon their existing skills with more advanced training, Larson shared that they’re also noticing a large increase in students enrolling in beginner courses.
Looking forward to the future, new programs slated for the Wellton Manufacturing Training Center include Electronics Technician and Flooring Installation. Larson added that there are also plans to make electrical courses available in Spanish.
Additionally, the Yuma Future48 Workforce Accelerator, recently announced by Gov. Katie Hobbs, will offer workforce training at the center in electrical technology, advanced manufacturing, broadband fiber optics, and solar installation in support of the region’s aerospace and defense industries. The partnership, overseen by the Arizona Commerce Authority in coordination with industry partners, will include a 5,600-square-foot expansion of the existing facility in Wellton, 28851 County 12th Street. The project is expected to be completed later this year.
Contact:
Jim Larson
Director of Manufacturing
Arizona Western College
James.Larson@azwestern.edu
(928) 317-6216