Governor Hobbs Proclaims April as Arizona Community Colleges Month

Tuesday, April 9, 2024
A small group of MCC students walking through the campus

Governor Katie Hobbs has proclaimed April as Arizona Community Colleges Month. The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is proud to join Arizona’s ten community college districts in recognizing the vital role that community colleges play in shaping the workforce.

Governor Hobbs’ proclamation coincides with National Community College Month. This year’s theme, “Cultivating Skills for the Future,” highlights the important work being done by community colleges across the U.S., including MCCCD.

As one of the largest community college systems in the nation, MCCCD is proud to serve students throughout Greater Phoenix and Arizona. With 10 colleges and 31 satellite locations, Maricopa Community Colleges enrolls nearly 150,000 students and employs over 11,000 full-time and part-time faculty and staff members.

According to an Economic Impact Study, from the fiscal year 2021-22, MCCCD added $7.9 billion of income to the Maricopa County economy, accounting for 2.3% of the county’s gross regional product (GRP). MCCCD’s impact supported 108,290 jobs across the county, with one out of every 28 jobs in Maricopa County supported by the activities of the system’s students and ten colleges. The study highlights the crucial role Maricopa Community Colleges play in driving economic growth and providing opportunities for individuals to succeed in the region’s growing workforce.

One of the key areas where MCCCD is making a significant impact is in addressing the shortage of skilled workers in high-demand industries. These include nursing, information technology, construction trades, and K-12 education. Through its workforce development programs and bachelor’s degree programs, MCCCD is equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to fill these critical roles and contribute to the growth of Arizona’s economy.

MCCCD remains a steadfast pipeline in workforce development by providing job-related training and a well-equipped workforce for our state’s diverse, high-demand industries. With a wide range of à la carte training opportunities with Fast Track Certificates, Microcredentials Pathways, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and industry-led partnerships, MCCCD is committed to meeting the needs of Arizona’s employers and preparing students for high-demand careers.

As MCCCD celebrates National Community College Month, it is proud to highlight the positive impact on Arizona’s workforce and its important role in shaping the state’s future. With its commitment to providing high-quality, accessible, and affordable education and training, MCCCD is cultivating the skills needed for a thriving workforce and a prosperous Arizona. Learn more at Maricopa.edu.