PHOENIX – Governor Katie Hobbs, in collaboration with the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO), announced $1 million in funding to support the next phase of the BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative. The program focuses on equipping Arizonans, especially women, with the skills needed to pursue construction and trades careers.
Launched in 2023, BuildItAZ has already shown promising results, with significant growth in the enrollment of construction apprenticeships. This latest funding will enhance recruitment, retention, and support services, such as childcare and transportation, to help apprentices succeed.
“We are continuing to build a strong construction talent pipeline to meet the demands of our growing state,” said Governor Hobbs. “Apprenticeships open up economic opportunities, provide good-paying jobs from day one, and teach valuable skills for long-term careers. This funding strengthens Arizona’s workforce and economy.”
Carlos Contreras, Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity, highlighted the program’s early successes. “In its first year, BuildItAZ enrolled more than 1,000 new construction apprentices and supported over 500 individuals with critical needs like tools, tuition, and training equipment,” he said.
The initiative’s first phase invested $650,000, enhancing registered apprenticeship programs across the state. Grantees, such as the Phoenix Electrical JATC Apprenticeship Program, have used the funds to integrate advanced technology and hands-on training.
“These grants have elevated our programs, ensuring a skilled and safety-conscious workforce,” said Shawn Hutchinson of Phoenix Electrical JATC.
Allison Moore, HR Manager at Rummel Construction, echoed the sentiment, noting that the grants have strengthened their ability to deliver innovative solutions in heavy civil construction.
Looking ahead, OEO plans to launch a BuildItAZ outreach campaign in early 2025 to recruit more apprentices, with a particular focus on increasing the participation of women in the construction industry.
The second round of grants, funded through federal workforce funds, will open for applications on December 3. For more information, visit OEO’s website at oeo.az.gov.
