Coconino Community College in Northern Arizona recently completed a newly-expanded facility for its Construction Technology Management program. According to AZ Big Media, the expansion will allow the college construction program to triple its student count from 30 to 94.
The facility is “a showcase” for the latest technology with new virtual reality welding, electrical, and HVACr simulators, according to the article.
“We’re very excited about it because the college is trying to groom the kids that are here and want to stay here instead of trying to import people who have no support system here, like mom and dad who can help pay the bills,” said Steve Hanson, the owner of Flagstaff Comfort Systems and a member of the Northern Arizona Building Association (NABA) board of directors.
According to the article, annual minimum wage hikes mandated by the state and the city of Flagstaff are making hiring even more challenging. The expansion is expected to help combat the labor shortage.
With more space available, a dual enrollment program involving high school students is also being discussed, the article reports.
Source: AZ Big Media
