State Budget Provides Workforce Training Funds to MCCCD

The Arizona Legislature passed the fiscal year 2019-20 budget, making critical investments in higher education and workforce development. The budget allocates funding for the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD), providing the college system with $4.8 million, over three fiscal years starting in 2019-2020 for STEM and workforce development. The budget also includes a one-time $5.8 million allocation to support the expansion of healthcare specialty programs.

“On behalf of the Maricopa County Community College District, we thank Governor Doug Ducey and the Arizona State Legislature for their support and commitment to improving educational attainment and workforce development opportunities throughout Arizona,” said Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick, MCCCD Chancellor. “This budget is a much-needed investment in community colleges that will enhance the accessibility of a high-quality college education and contribute to the success of the students and communities we serve.”

Highlights of the budget also include:

•  $15 million to Pima Community College (PCC) for an aviation program
• $14.2 million for rural community colleges
• $4.8 million to MCCCD and $1.2 million to PCC, over three years, for workforce development and STEM formula funding
•  $15 million for community college post-baccalaureate teaching students through the Arizona Teachers Academy (to be shared with Universities)

“The budget addresses the strategic priorities of the Maricopa Community Colleges, including STEM and healthcare training programs that are in high demand and continue to grow. We are pleased Gov. Ducey and our legislators support the largest provider of workforce training in the state that will help our community transform educational opportunities into long-term success,” stated Dr. Harper-Marinick. “We look forward to the continued collaboration with our state leaders in advancing the local economy and higher education for all.”