Sundt and Central Arizona College (CAC) recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the 142-by-92-foot concrete pad Sundt donated earlier this year, which will expand training for students in CAC’s Construction and Concrete Technology programs. In 2017, Sundt and CAC formed a workforce development partnership, in which Sundt staff donate their time as adjunct instructors and funds are donated to purchase supplies for the program.
The partnership between Sundt and CAC continues to expand. Sundt brought on an Industrial Carpentry Instructor and now has three adjunct instructors at CAC. The college furnishes an on-site lab and instruction space and has hired an additional professor and a full-time recruiter. Since the start of the program, Sundt has donated the concrete pad, as well as a pipe wall, industrial concrete tools, GPS system, backpacks and hard hats. Activities are planned to continue alongside the development of the CAC training area. These include opportunities for real-world experience outside the college environment, such as visits to jobsites, vendor training facilities, and the Sundt Center for Craft Excellence, as well as participation in community outreach programs.
James Busch, CAC Skilled Trades and Technology Division Chair and Professor of Diesel Technology and Heavy Equipment Operation, said, “We’re very grateful for the support Sundt has provided and continues to provide. The advancements being made within our programs and division are possible because of this strong workforce partnership.” During the 2017-2018 academic year, 178 students enrolled in Industrial Carpentry, Welding, Pipe Fitting, and Heavy Equipment Operator program offerings at CAC. Sundt Director of Craft Workforce Development Sean Ray said, “Our partnership with CAC continues to grow and produce fantastic results. We have a great relationship with CAC and look forward to the next phases of the program.” The first cohort graduated in May 2018 with 100 percent of graduates receiving jobs in the industry. Students hired by Sundt received a $1,000 tuition reimbursement to help defray the cost of the program.