Engineering Pathways

Even in these challenging economic times, Arizona employers across all industries struggle to find skilled technicians and engineers. In 2009, SFAz began working with Cochise College in Sierra Vista to enrich their local talent pipeline by developing an early college pre-engineering program for high school students that combines academic coursework with hands-on experience leading toward employable credentials.

This provided a model for three other rural community colleges: Arizona Western College in Yuma, Central Arizona College in Coolidge and Yavapai College in Prescott. Using a combination of middle school summer camps, early college high school opportunities, industry-driven certifications and degree programs, each of the programs draws on industry input and seeks to enhance the connection between employers, community colleges and high schools. Students at Cochise, for example, may graduate with an internationally recognized certification from Siemens Corp.

While each of the four colleges has developed its own pathway toward engineering and technician related careers, they all aim to generate awareness of and enthusiasm for engineering; encourage students to pursue technical careers; support improved math knowledge and achievement; provide professional development opportunities for teachers; and create internships and job opportunities for students at local mining, manufacturing, defense, agriculture and other companies.

Learn more about SFAz's Engineering Pathways Program by downloading our brochure: "Stimulating Minds. Inspiring Careers."