The long-standing partnership between Cobre Valley Institute of Technology (CVIT) and Gila Community College (GCC)—Gila Pueblo Campus, has played a key role in our community’s educational opportunities for more than a decade. This collaboration has enabled CVIT to offer industry-driven Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to high school students, preparing them for meaningful careers while also meeting the needs of local industries.
With this partnership’s continued growth, CVIT has expanded from offering just one program with ten students in 2010 to now serving 175 students across ten workforce development programs. These programs include Cosmetology, Dental Assistant, Early Childhood Education, Electrical Installation, HVAC-R, Medical Assistant, Mental and Social Health Technician, Nurse Assistant, Welding, and Wildland Fire Science—fields that are integral to the workforce of the Cobre Valley region.
GCC has helped CVIT develop high-quality programs, provide accreditation, and allow students to earn dual credits for both high school and college. The continued partnership between CVIT and GCC is essential for maintaining our educational excellence and preparing students for the workforce.
One of the most exciting developments in CVIT and GCC’s ongoing collaboration is the accreditation of two new programs: the Mental and Social Health Tech program and the Electrician Installation program. These programs, which currently provide high school credit, will become fully accredited for college credit by July 1, 2025.
Mike O’Neal, CVIT Executive Director, explains, “Currently, students in these two new programs are earning high school credit, but not dual credit. This will change with accreditation, allowing them to earn both high school and college credits. There is a big need for mental health professionals in our community and across the state, and our Mental and Social Health Tech program will help meet this need. Similarly, the demand for electricians is growing, and our Electrician Installation program is helping prepare students for these high-demand jobs.”
The success stories from CVIT’s programs show how much this partnership has impacted students and the local workforce. Graduates are not only entering the workforce with industry-recognized certifications but are also gaining the skills necessary to excel in their careers. Many of CVIT’s students find employment or continue their education in fields that directly benefit the local economy. Take it from Kaitlyn Derhammer, CVIT Alumni, “CVIT helped me build experience in my desired field and enter my undergraduate career with more knowledge than most. It also helped me graduate with my bachelor’s degree a semester early by having credits on my transcripts before starting.”
O’Neal reflects on the value of this partnership for students and the community, saying, “It is what’s best for students. It gives them a chance to succeed while also meeting the needs of our local industries. We’ve been able to grow these programs and meet demand because of the support from GCC. Together, we’re creating a strong workforce for our community.”
For more information about CVIT and the programs they offer, visit CVIT81.org or call (928) 542-9640.
Carissa Pool is an Arizona native who grew up in Glendale and now lives in Peoria. Carissa earned her bachelor of arts degree from Arizona State University West and in her 15-plus year career in marketing and public relations has worked with a range of clients across various industries, from construction to non-profits. While she takes great pride in her professional achievements, her greatest joys come from writing and cherishing her role as a mother to her two young daughters.